The Personalised 1:1 Coaching System that Helps Runners Get Faster, Stronger, & Achieve a PB at their next race.

Achieving your best running times doesn’t have to mean frustrating plateaus, recurring injuries, or the confusion of what actually works. I’ll provide the personalised 1:1 support and step-by-step plan you need to feel stronger, more efficient, and confidently reach your goals without the generic approaches that leave you feeling stuck.

Join the Cliffe Athletics Team today

The Cliffe Athletics System

We provide a running and strength plan carefully designed to fit your unique lifestyle and goals, offering in-depth feedback and regular, supportive communication so you always feel confident and on track.

It all starts with understanding you. We'll carefully review your current fitness level, your day-to-day lifestyle, your key running ambitions for the year, and all the elements that shape your training.

With this complete picture, we design a truly personalised running plan with heart rate and pace zones matched precisely to your unique physiology.

And to make it easy, your entire plan syncs straight to your GPS watch.

Take the guesswork out of your Running

STRENGTH TRAINING, SIMPLIFIED FOR RUNNERS

You probably understand how beneficial strength training is for your running.

The challenge, though, is often knowing the right exercises to focus on to see real results and avoid injury.

We take the guesswork out of it by creating clear, effective strength plans tailored to boost your running and build resilience.

Your entire plan is delivered through an easy-to-use app, making it straightforward to follow along and track your progress.

Clear instructions for better results

It’s frustrating when you’re unsure how to perform an exercise in your program correctly.

That’s why every strength plan includes access to a comprehensive library of clear video demonstrations for each exercise.

This way, you can confidently perform each movement with the correct form, helping you achieve the best possible results and stay injury-free.

Know you are heading in the right direction

We provide detailed feedback on every single run, every single week. This comes to you as a personal video recording of your coach talking directly to the camera, as they review your training, share specific insights, and offer guidance tailored just for you.

This regular, visual, and personal support allows you to continuously improve your execution of the plan and get the most out of every session.

You’ll get the encouragement you need to stay motivated and on track when things are going well. And when life inevitably gets in the way, we’re right there with an added sense of direction to help you adjust, stay positive, and get right back on course towards your goals.

HAVE all your questions answered

It's natural to have plenty of questions as you train – in fact, we expect and encourage them!

Instead of spending hours sifting through confusing (and often conflicting) advice online, you can simply send us a message anytime a question pops up.

Whether it’s about the best running shoes, how to fuel your long runs, or the right way to pace a workout, we're here to provide prompt, clear answers that help you easily understand every aspect of your plan.

BONUS EXTRAS

Mobility Routine

Warm up Routine

Strava Club

CLiffe athletics testimonials

  • Daniel

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    Having just completed my first marathon with Cliffe Athletics, I can't speak highly enough of Austin's coaching program. Working backwards from race day, Austin designed a running program that allowed me to safely increase my weekly mileage while still hitting the bigger key sessions with ample time to taper.

    This was especially crucial since I was recovering from an injury early in the training block.

    Austin coupled this with a comprehensive strength program that I could integrate with my rehab, focusing on single leg strength and stabilising movements to target key areas of weakness.

    Throughout the program, Austin provided the flexibility I needed to maintain consistency.

    This included making adjustments to fit training within my schedule and, more importantly, continuously adapting the load and intensity of training to accommodate my recovery and prevent re-injury.

    In the lead-up to race day, Austin thoroughly covered all aspects of my taper and race plan, providing detailed guidelines for everything from carb-loading and race fueling to smartwatch programming and, most importantly, my pacing strategy.

    He took the time to understand my race goals and align them with my fitness level—based on data from my training block—to develop a detailed pacing strategy that accounted for both best and worst-case scenarios.

    On race day, Austin was there to support me as I executed our race strategy to a tee! At no point during my training or the race did I feel underprepared; we had left no stone unturned in our preparation.

    Whether you are just starting as a runner or aiming to achieve your next big goal, I highly recommend Austin as a coach. His genuine passion for the sport and commitment to helping me reach my goals have been both inspiring and motivating!

  • Tom

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    After scraping through a slow 5K at the 2024 Melbourne Marathon as a rookie runner, I wanted a new challenge for 2025. I reached out to Austin after seeing his great social media content, aiming to run my first half marathon at Ballarat in April 2025.

    Austin developed a clear, long-term plan with goals, varied workouts, stretches, and exercises that kept me motivated. His weekly progress videos were very helpful.

    Austin recognised my potential early — I only aimed to finish, but achieved a PB of 1:38:36, far beyond my expectations! Even with work travel, an international holiday, and bouts of illness, Austin quickly adapted my plan without risking my goals.

    His support has kept me motivated and excited about running. I highly recommend Austin to anyone looking to improve their running, no matter their experience — he’s a true professional and a pleasure to work with

  • Elmo

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Austin is an excellent running coach. His program is flexible and challenging and incorporates strength as well as running.

    The weekly feedback videos are great feedback tools and help with motivation to keep going.

    He is encouraging with his feedback. We have worked together to achieve a 9min PB in the half marathon recently and looking forward to the challenge of my first marathon later this year.

    I would definitely recommend Cliffe Athletics to anyone. It has really helped with my running and overall strength and feeling of well-being.

    It is extremely easy since the running program automatically syncs to my watch, and the gym program is also easy to follow.

  • Matt

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    I started working with Austin in April this year with the two main goals of running a 100 km trail ultra and to improve general fitness.

    Austin created a plan to suit both these goals and just this weekend we achieved the main goal of crossing that finish line strong!

    Austin and his coaching was perfect for me as he took into account a pretty busy schedule with work and everything else. From base building to a very intense but fun training block with some long hours, he guided me through every step, he was always so fast to respond to the millions of questions I throwed at him, fortnightly video calls were always thourough and the weekly check in videos made everything and summarised everything perfectly.

    Working with Austin I was able to achieve my goals beyond expectations and his the perfect coach and a great bloke as well.

    Couldn’t recommend higher! Thankyou for the last 6 months Austin and look forward to seeing what we can achieve in the future.

  • JOSH

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    Austin's coaching helped me run my first marathon, and smash my goal time! Before working with Austin, I had never followed a proper training plan, and had only run for fun. Austin provided me with a clearly structured training plan for me to follow for both running and the gym. He was adaptable enough to change the plan based on my footy commitments, and adjusted the plan to help me overcome any minor niggles without risking making any injuries worse. Austin's weekly check-ins helped me stay accountable to achieving my goals, and demonstrated how supportive he was to me. This culminated in me running a sub-3:30 debut marathon, which was made all the more special by having Austin cheer me on along the course. Austin's coaching pushed me to achieve more than I thought was possible, and without him I wouldn't have been able to run the marathon as well as I did.

  • Lloyd

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    I’ve been following Austin’s fitness journey since early 2023, watching him complete structured track sessions, running specific gym exercises & overall diet/ nutrition videos. The main difference that set Austin apart from other coaches was that he practices what he preaches. After 12 months, I decided to become part of the Cliffe Athletics team. After a 14 week marathon block, completing my personal structured workouts, personal weekly check-ins on my progress & taking in Austin’s wealth of knowledge & experience - I completed my first marathon overseas. I’m extremely happy with the progress I’ve made since working with Austin, and my only regret is that I didn’t start with him sooner!

  • RUBY

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    Austin’s coaching has genuinely changed my life. I first tried getting into a regular running routine in 2020, however, the habit never stuck until I engaged Austin as my coach. Before coaching, running always felt like a chore. Furthermore, I was constantly injured and never felt like I was making any real progress. Since coming on board 1 year ago, I have easily hit nearly all programmed sessions. I no longer get overwhelmed by running or worry about completing the ‘right’ runs. Having Austin programming weekly means I know I am heading in the right direction; he considers my individual needs weekly, adapting the program to fit my life. Austin’s brilliant balance of running and gym work has meant I have remained (basically) injury-free. Having a qualified run coach and strength and conditioning coach provides great variety in my weekly activities and makes a tangible difference in my performance and energy levels. Lastly, I have NEVER experienced such consistent, impressive results before starting Austin’s coaching. I managed to shave 15 minutes off my half marathon PB and successfully trained for my first marathon whilst working full-time and managing a busy life.

  • Ben

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    Before working with Austin, I’d been using an app for programming but found I’d hit a plateau. With Austin’s structure and guidance I was able to improve my running significantly and hit a PB in a recent half marathon. Would definitely recommend Austin for anyone looking to progress their running.

  • NEil

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    Austin and the Cliffe Athletics team provide an effective, results-focused, proactive, personalised and reliable coaching service - whilst also prioritising the client’s health and wellbeing and using their expertise to help you on your journey. I could not be happier with my development and results, having just completed my first ever Half-Marathon ahead of my target time and without strain or injury. I am happy to endorse and recommend Austin and the Cliffe Athletics team to anyone aspiring to be fitter, faster, healthier and feeling great each day.

  • ADAM

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    My goal was to improve my marathon time from the previous year and with Austin's help I improved by 45 minutes. Was a big pb, and I wouldn't have been able to do it solo.

  • ISAAC

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    I reached out to Austin after suffering an injury right at the start of what should have been a 12 week marathon build. After getting the all-clear to start running again, Austin was able to get me to the marathon start line fit and healthy despite the shorter than ideal training period. I was able to complete the marathon feeling strong and surpassed my own expectations of what I was capable of. Can't recommend him enough!

  • SIMON

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    Since starting with Austin 3 months ago, I've been able to go from barely running past 5km without passing out, to finishing my first ever half-marathon, surpassing my original sub 2hr goal! I've never felt so much more confident in my ability to run different lengths and speeds and more than anything, I appreciate Austin's patience and flexibility in manoeuvring the workout plan despite my busy schedule. Can't recommend him enough to any level of runner!

  • GRACE

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    Austin’s coaching has changed my life!!! I used to be traumatised by the thought of running and now I’m easily running 15-20kms a week. I achieved a 5km PB and am now training for a 10km. He is very patient, knowledgeable and professional, with an answer to all my questions. He always makes sure my schedule fits in with my lifestyle. Would highly recommend Cliffe Athletics!!

  • Jackson

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    I have been training with Austin for the past five months, and I can confidently say that he has been instrumental in helping me achieve my running goals. With his guidance, I have achieved a sub-50 minute 10km and a 2-hour half marathon, milestones I once thought were out of reach. What sets Austin apart is his incredible flexibility and insight. There have been weeks when my work schedule was extremely hectic, with flights to other cities, and times when I wasn't feeling my best. Austin always adjusted my workouts accordingly, ensuring I stayed on track without overtraining. His ability to tailor the training plan around my schedule and other commitments has been invaluable. In addition to running, I also play netball and tennis. Austin has been able to spread out the workload across the week, allowing me to perform at my best in these sports as well. His approach has enabled me to maintain a balanced and effective training regimen. Moreover, Austin has been a great help in planning my marathon training around my Europe holiday and guiding me with nutrition during runs, which I had never done before. His expertise in these areas has been crucial in preparing me for the marathon. Austin is not only knowledgeable and experienced but also approachable and easy-going. His encouragement and support have kept me motivated and focused, making my training journey enjoyable and rewarding. I highly recommend Austin to anyone looking to improve their running performance or achieve new personal bests. His dedication and expertise are truly exceptional.

  • Kaitlyn

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    Austin's coaching services have been a game-changer for my running journey. His personalised approach, attention to detail, and patience has been incredible. The weekly video check ins provide a high level of insight into how your training has gone for the week and what to aim for in your long run on a Saturday. The way Austin sets up and communicates sessions makes them incredibly easy to interpret and execute on. Thanks to Austin’s guidance, I've not only seen significant progress in my performance but also regained my love and enjoyment for running again. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Austin to anyone looking for a running coach!

  • Max

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Austin has been amazing over the past year, really helping me progress in the gym and with my running. No matter what was happening and how my body was feeling he would tailor the program to get the most out of me without impacting other areas. Would highly recommend Austin to anyone who’s looking to get fitter and stronger no matter what level you’re at!

  • Tithnimol

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Austin was a great coach to help me reaching my potential with a great workout plan that he made. I would highly recommend Austin to friends a everyone to give it a try because the communication and workout plan are really great.

  • Andersen

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Even though my time training with Austin was short, his coaching made a huge impact on my journey to my first half marathon race. His training plans, especially during the taper week and race week, were crucial in helping me stay on track and ultimately crush my time goal for the race. I couldn’t recommend Austin and his coaching more!

  • Angus

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    I came across Austin on instagram and was draw to him with his impressive running resume while having a larger frame like myself.

    With his expertise, I was able to dramatically improve my running fitness through a balance of gym training & running. This helped me to run a 3:20:04 for my first ever marathon!

    As well as being transferred into great improvements in my triathlon training with the same core values of training.

    I can’t recommend Austin enough. His tailored attention to detail and personalised service suits beginners all the way to the seasoned runner. He is always available to answer questions and look for ways to work into your busy life! While still making sure you get the work done haha

Choose your plan

ARE YOU TIRED OF POURING EFFORT INTO YOUR RUNNING, ONLY TO HIT STUBBORN PERFORMANCE PLATEAUS?

DOES THAT FRUSTRATING CYCLE OF INJURIES CONTINUALLY DERAIL YOUR PROGRESS AND SHAKE YOUR CONFIDENCE?

ARE YOU EAGER TO UNLOCK YOUR TRUE RUNNING POTENTIAL, BUT FEEL LOST OR OVERWHELMED BY ALL THE CONFLICTING TRAINING ADVICE OUT THERE?

YOU'RE NOT ALONE.

These aren't just minor setbacks; they're deeply frustrating challenges faced by so many passionate runners, often making the sport feel more like a battle than a source of joy. It's easy to feel disheartened.

But here's the good news: it genuinely doesn't have to stay this way, and there’s a clear, more effective path forward.

With the right personalised guidance and a smarter, more sustainable approach to your training, you can finally break free from these frustrating cycles.

You'll build lasting consistency, regain your running confidence, and start making real, tangible progress towards those significant running goals you know you're truly capable of achieving.

Meet your Coach

Austin Sutcliffe

Melbourne, Australia

Hi, I'm Austin! As we'll hopefully be working closely together 1:1 through Cliffe Athletics, I wanted to share a bit about myself and my deep passion for both running and coaching.

I truly live and breathe running, and I'm equally dedicated to helping runners like you discover your full potential and achieve results you can be proud of. My main focus is to significantly improve your running performance while strategically building your strength. This approach ensures you not only get faster and run longer but also feel stronger, healthier, and more resilient against injuries.

I understand the runner's journey intimately because I'm constantly exploring it myself. I know the dedication involved, the thrill of a new personal best, and the challenges that can come with training. My own running experiences span a wide range of distances and terrains:

  • I've chased speed, achieving PBs like 16:48 for 5k and 36:26 for 10k.

  • I’ve pushed my endurance to run a 1:18:16 half marathon, and I'm currently training hard for a sub-2:45 marathon.

  • I’ve also embraced the mental and physical test of ultra-endurance, completing a 100km event with over 5000m of elevation in 19 hours.

This firsthand experience, from fast road races to demanding ultras, is complemented by my formal qualifications. I am an Athletics Australia Accredited Advanced Running Coach and an ASCA Level One Strength and Conditioning Coach (Australian Strength and Conditioning Association). This combination ensures that your training is built on proven, effective principles, expertly blending running workouts with targeted strength work.

My coaching philosophy is centred on being as encouraging, understanding, and practical as possible. I believe in creating sustainable training plans that genuinely fit into your life, deliver the results you're striving for, and – importantly – allow you to enjoy the process. Feeling motivated, supported, and clear about your training path is key to our success together.

Thank you for your interest in Cliffe Athletics! If you’re ready to train smarter, feel stronger, and find more enjoyment and success in your running, I’d be thrilled to have you on the team.