World Athletics Eyes Treadmill Racing as the Next Big Sport

Many runners consider "real running" to be done on roads, tracks, or even rugged trails in the mountains.

Treadmill running, whether at the gym or at home, is often seen as secondary, more associated with fitness enthusiasts than competitive runners.

However, treadmills had a surge in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic when outdoor running was restricted, allowing only those with access to one to continue training uninterrupted. But after the world returned to normal, the trend faded.

Now, it seems treadmill running could be making a major comeback.

A New Competitive Stage for Treadmill Running

Sebastian Coe, president of World Athletics and former British middle-distance champion, has proposed the creation of an official Treadmill Running World Championship.

While Guinness World Records already recognize achievements for treadmill races across various distances, from marathons to 100K, six-hour, and even 48-hour endurance runs, there has never been an officially sanctioned competition under the umbrella of the international athletics federation.

This initiative would bring treadmill running into the same competitive sphere as other indoor sports like rowing and cycling, making it a recognized discipline with structured events.

It could attract not only elite athletes but also everyday runners who use treadmills as a key part of their training.

"Running is enjoying unprecedented popularity, and we must seize the moment," Coe stated. "Innovation is a top priority for us. By working with athletes and partners, we aim to evolve and introduce new formats, including treadmill racing."

His sentiments were echoed by Jon Ridgeon, the executive director of World Athletics and a former hurdles specialist, who highlighted the potential of this new format.

"Millions of people train on treadmills every day," Ridgeon noted. "Our mission is to promote athletics in ways that resonate with people. Whether it’s outdoor, indoor, virtual through eSports, or on a treadmill—it doesn’t matter. We need to meet athletes where they are."

Following the Footsteps of Other Indoor Sports

The concept of virtual or indoor championships isn't new. Rowing already has the World Rowing Virtual Championships, which has been held since 2018 using rowing machines, while the UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) eSports World Championships use platforms like Zwift and MyWhoosh for simulated cycling competitions.

With advancements in technology and the growing popularity of virtual and indoor sports, treadmill running could soon have its own global stage, allowing athletes to compete regardless of location or weather conditions.

eSports and the Future of Virtual Competition

The rise of digital sports is further evident in the recent announcement by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) confirming that the first-ever Olympic eSports Games will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2027.

This event will bring together the world's top gamers to compete in virtual arenas across multiple disciplines.

And who knows? Perhaps in the near future, treadmill racing could become part of the growing world of competitive virtual sports.