Abstract: An electric drive system (1) operated by muscle power for a vehicle (2) includes a foot pedal (5) and a mechanical generator (6) mechanically connected to the foot pedal. The drive system also includes an electric transmission (4) and an electric control system (20) with a control program (21) of the generator, which is able to generate a counter or load moment (GM). The drive system also includes a starting control system (22) for the generator, by means of which a standstill pedal resistance (TW) and a high starting moment (MA) is produced at the foot pedal. When used in a stationary training apparatus (3), the drive system includes a motor operation control system (23) with a bi-directional converter (31), by means of which the generator is also able to be operated as a motor.