#Italy #Technogym #Cesena #World Athletics #RUN X

Technogym and World Athletics Unveil RUN X™

In a groundbreaking partnership, Technogym, a leader in wellness and athletic training, along with World Athletics, has announced RUN X – the first-ever World Championship on treadmills. This innovative event aims to connect both professional athletes and fitness enthusiasts from around the globe, allowing them to compete from the comfort of their gyms.

A New Era of Competitive Running

RUN X transforms the traditional running race by breaking down geographical barriers and making the event accessible in fitness and sports centers worldwide. This 5 km competition will debut in the first quarter of 2026, allowing gyms to join the network and host this unprecedented championship.

Sebastian Coe, the president of World Athletics, remarked on the exciting potential of RUN X by stating, "We are thrilled about our partnership with Technogym for the treadmill world championship. Together, we want to create a virtual competition space that builds a global community, entertains, and motivates casual runners to engage and connect with their experience."

Key Features of the RUN X Championship

Once the registration opens in the second quarter of 2026, runners can compete virtually with real-time rankings made possible through Technogym’s connected equipment. The results will be displayed on universally linked treadmills connected to the 'Technogym Digital Ecosystem.' Participants will race against professional athletes in real time, with online leaderboards showcasing performances from around the world.

The leading athletes from each country will compete in age categories and have a chance to advance to regional championships, moving them closer to the grand finale. The final event is set for late 2026 at an iconic location, where the top ten male and ten female athletes will battle for the title of the first-ever treadmill world champion.

A Prize Pool and Future Opportunities

To make this event more enticing, RUN X will feature a remarkable prize pool of $100,000. Additionally, World Athletics plans to provide Wild Cards for some of its events, enhancing the competitive landscape. Nerio Alessandri, founder of Technogym, emphasized the commitment to promoting physical activity through this initiative, noting that RUN X will connect millions of runners to partner fitness centers globally.

A Movement for Wellness

With a legacy of over 40 years in delivering cutting-edge treadmills, Technogym aims to integrate fitness with competitive spirit. The initiative underpins Technogym’s 'Let's Move for a Better World' campaign, which focuses on promoting regular physical activity for a healthier planet.

As we approach 2026, RUN X not only promises excitement but also fosters a global community united through the love of running. The merging of digital technology and physical competition marks a significant shift in how athletes will participate in sports events in the future.

For participants and fitness centers interested in this revolutionary event, further details can be found on the RUN X website, including registration specifics and event guidelines.

This unique championship exemplifies how traditional sports can adapt to modern technology, creating opportunities for connectivity, competition, and community engagement across the globe.