That would be same distance with 20% less exertion, I guess... I think the point is, more of the energy input to your pedals goes toward making forward progress. Don't know if you've ever experimented, but your pedaling efficiency - for example, your ability to turn the cranks with an even power input will enable you to go farther and faster with less perceived energy. This is why Lance still practices pedaling circles even while he is arguably the best stage rider ever.

When you don't have clips, you will tend to mash the pedals downward... that's sort of the natural motion. With clips you should try to pedal in a controlled circular motion with as much of an even power input all the way around as possible. Evidently MTN bike riders do this well, because they sometimes need to keep control of their drive while - meaning an uneven, or choppy input of power to the cranks can cause the wheel to spin and lose traction.

I actually do find myself going faster with less perceived energy when I pay attention to my pedaling...

/rs