On the last weekend of November, as part of the opening event of the 2020 Telethon, the Cross of Figaro will once again be held in Domaine de Saint-Cloud Park in the Hauts-de-Seine. Help support research by taking part in a 5, 10, 15 or 20 km race: every additional kilometre covered this year compared to the 2019 edition will result in a donation. Take the NordicTrack Don Challenge with the help of our tips.
Cross of Figaro: run to support research
Since 2013, the Cross of Figaro has been held every year in the heart of the Domaine de Saint-Cloud. This sporting event brings together runners of all levels in a natural setting (park) on the outskirts of Paris. This not-to-be-missed event for runners takes place on the weekend before Telethon week, on the 28th and 29th of November. Part of the proceeds will be donated to support research on rare diseases.
NordicTrack, partner of the Cross of Figaro
In 2020, NordicTrack is joining forces with the Cross of Figaro by offering a challenge to the participants and by helping the runners prepare for the race. As the leaders in top-quality home fitness equipment, we are with you all year round to help you reach your goals, through advice, innovative technologies and iFit® virtual coaching applications that are compatible with all your devices.
The NordicTrack Don Challenge
In 2019, the participants of the Cross of Figaro covered 70,865 kilometres. Are you ready to take on the NordicTrack Don challenge? For each additional kilometre covered on 28th and 29th November, we will make a direct donation to Telethon. Help us to support research by participating in the race!
4 tracks, for runners of all levels
In 2020, the Cross of Figaro has 4 running tracks, aimed at all levels:
- A 5 km run accessible to all, even beginner runners, on Sunday 29th November, at 10.30 am.
- A 10 km run, ideal for exceeding your limits if this is not your first race or if you have recently taken on running, on Sunday 29th November, also at 10.30 am.
- A 15 km run with a loop of 10 km, then 5 km, for the more experienced runners, on Saturday 28th November, at 10 am.
- A 20 km run, consisting of two 10 km loops, a motivating challenge to be taken up by experienced runners, taking place at the same time as the 15 km race, on Saturday 28th November, at 10 am.
How do I sign up for the NordicTrack Figaro Cross of Figaro?
To sign up, visit the website https://www.crossdufigaro.com. Registration includes:
- Participation in the race
- Entry to the village with entertainment
- A stopwatch
- A medal given to every participant who finishes the race
- The name of each runner mentioned the next day in the newspaper Le Figaro
- Bibs are collected the week before the competition at the Decathlon Paris Aquaboulevard shop. It is also possible to pick them up the same day on site for an extra charge of 5 €.
How to register for the Cross du Figaro
Registration is open to all sportsmen and women, whatever their level. All that is required is a medical certificate confirming they are fit to run, with the words “the competition” mentioned and dated after 27th November 2019. The certificate can be presented at the time of registration or during race number collection.
Preparing properly for the NordicTrack Cross of Figaro race
NordicTrack will help you prepare for the Cross of Figaro race in the best possible way by offering you:
- Top-of-the-range treadmills for training at home in the best conditions
- iFit® programmes, compatible with all your devices, for training in real-life conditions by saving the track on Google Maps
- The blog has useful tips to help you prepare for the race, and there is more in the NordicTrack newsletter
- A warm-up area on site during the competition weekend
Beginner runner: preparing for a 5 or 10 km race
If you are a beginner runner, to prepare for your 5 km or 10 km race in 4 to 6 weeks, plan 3 running sessions per week, gradually increasing the distances covered. To prepare for the 10 km race, don’t hesitate to alternate endurance and split training. For more specific tips, read our related articles.
Experienced runner: preparing for a 15 or 20 km race
To prepare for a 15 or 20 km race, it is better to be an experienced runner. With 3 running sessions per week alternating split workouts and endurance, combined with cardio and muscle strengthening exercises, you will be able to prepare for the race in 4 to 6 weeks. Also try the iFit® Half Marathon series to train in the world’s most beautiful settings from the comfort of your own home. Find more tips for a successful 15 or 20 km run in our article covering this topic and sign up for the newsletter to receive more tips.
Check out our Fitness & Training page for more advice.