What is the world’s first treadmill world championship? It is called RUN X. World Athletics and Technogym announced it on October 27, 2025, in Milan, Italy. It is a new 5 km race, but runners do it on treadmills, not on a road or track. The idea is simple and exciting: people in many countries can join the same competition from fitness clubs and sports centers. World Athletics says it is the first World Treadmill Championship. (worldathletics.org)
RUN X is special because it is for many kinds of runners. The official FAQ says any runner, of any age, nationality, or fitness level, can complete the 5K. In other words, this event is not only for famous athletes. A beginner and a top runner can both be part of the same global race. That makes the event feel more open and friendly than many big championships. (runx.org)
How does it work? Runners will use Technogym treadmills connected to the company’s digital system. Their 5 km times will be certified, and an online leaderboard will show real-time rankings. Then, the best runners in each country, divided by age group, will move on to regional championships. After that, the top 10 men and top 10 women will race in the world final at the end of 2026. The event will also offer a US$100,000 prize pool, and World Athletics plans to give some wild cards for its other events. (worldathletics.org)
Why is this idea interesting? A normal world championship needs travel, good weather, and a special stadium. RUN X tries to remove some of those limits. You can race indoors, in safety and comfort, and still feel part of a world event. As of March 19, 2026, the official RUN X pages say clubs are joining in the first quarter of 2026, and runner registration is planned for the second quarter, with the competition set for the fall of 2026. It sounds a little strange at first—but it may be a fun new future for running. (worldathletics.org)










