About
Matty Abel

A 2:48 marathoner, former Nike Head Coach, and Australian representative at the Sky Running World Championships, I have spent over a decade coaching runners of all levels to train smarter, stay injury-free, and reach goals they didn’t think were possible.

I’ve worked with 1,000+ athletes across every distance, from debut marathoners to Nedd Brockmann running 1,000 miles around a track to Cam Merrick running 2:21. Every single one trained with the same rigorous, personalised approach. No templates. No shortcuts.

Coaching at MARA is built on structured periodisation, strength training as a non-negotiable, and an educational philosophy where you always understand the why behind every session.

Learn more about me

RECURRING INJURIES

Tired of constant niggles or setbacks stopping your progress? Most runners train hard but not always smart. My strength-integrated programs are built to reduce injury risk, improve movement efficiency, and keep you running strong, season after season.

INFORMATION OVERLOAD

Confused by all the training advice online? You’re not alone. I simplify the noise with a clear, evidence-based plan built around your goals, schedule, and fitness level, so you can train with confidence knowing exactly what to do each week.

PERFORMANCE PLATEAUS

Feeling stuck despite consistent training? Progress isn't just about more kilometres, it's about smarter ones. I'll help you identify exactly what's holding you back, from pacing and recovery to strength and nutrition, and give you the structure to break through.

SPORADIC TRAINING

Life is busy. Motivation comes and goes. But structure creates consistency and consistency creates results. My proven systems and accountability methods keep you moving forward, even when life gets in the way.

OVERTRAINING & BURNOUT

Pushing too hard and not seeing the rewards? More isn't always better. I'll help you master the balance between training stress and recovery so you can build endurance, strength, and speed without burning out, especially critical for longer and multi-day events.

EXPERT RUNNING COACH

With over a decade of coaching experience and more than 1,000 runners guided to success, from first 5K finishes to transcontinental runs, I bring the systems, precision, and expertise to help you perform at your best while balancing life, training, and recovery.

CUSTOMISED TRAINING PLANS

No cookie-cutter templates here. Every program is built around your race, terrain, fitness level, and schedule. Whether you’re chasing a road PB or tackling a 100 km mountain ultra, your plan is 100% personalised to your goals.

STRENGTH TRAINING FOR RUNNERS

Running strength isn't optional, it's foundational. I integrate targeted strength training and mobility work to build durability, improve efficiency, and reduce injury risk, helping you run stronger for longer.

EDUCATIONAL APPROACH

I don’t just tell you what to do, I teach you why. My coaching philosophy empowers you with the knowledge to understand your body, training cycles, and recovery needs, creating sustainable long-term performance.

EXPERTISE IN BOTH ROAD AND TRAIL RUNNING

Whether you’re pounding the pavement or exploring the trails, my experience across both disciplines ensures you receive a tailored program that matches the demands of your chosen terrain, road speed or mountain strength.

PROVEN RESULTS ACROSS ALL LEVELS

From everyday runners to Australia's most ambitious endurance athletes, including Nedd Brockmann's run across Australia and 1,000-mile challenge. I have a track record of helping people achieve what once felt impossible.

Our
Partners

Pick your program

1:1 Coaching

Premium Coaching

Full-service personalised run coaching with Matty

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Training Plan

Custom Program

A personalised training plan built around your goals

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Performance Program

Sub-3 Marathon Performance System

A 16-week training system for runners ready to stop guessing and start executing.

$196 – one-off investment • 16 weeks

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Performance Program

Sub-3:15 Marathon Performance System

A 16-week training system for runners ready to break 3:15 with structure, consistency, and a clear plan to get there.

$196 – one-off investment • 16 weeks

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Development Program

Sub-3:30 Marathon Development System

A 16-week training system for runners ready to break 3:30 - with structure, purpose, and no guesswork.

$196 – one-off investment • 16 weeks

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Development Program

Sub-4 Marathon Development System

"Coming Soon"

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Performance Program

Sydney Marathon Programs

"Coming Soon"

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Performance Program

Sub-90 Half Marathon Performance System

"Coming Soon"

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Development Program

Sub-2 Half Marathon Development System

"Coming Soon"

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Client
Feedback

Tim Ashelford

Matty really makes sure he gets the most out of you. It doesn't matter what goals I throw at him, he builds a training plan that leaves me feeling prepared to tackle my goal come race day. I love how he focuses on everything, from mindset and nutrition to strength and a variety of workouts that are super tailored to whatever challenge I've cooked up for myself. I'm definitely at my best when class is in session at the academy.

Sissi Bergman

Training with Matty has been transformative. In just over 12 months I ran a 9-minute PB and finished the NYC Marathon in 2:46, placing 25th female overall. His belief, precision, and personalised approach pushed me to chase goals I never thought possible.

Peter Baines

Four months ago, I hadn't fully grasped the value of having a coach, but after a recommendation, I reached out to Matty. Now, just three months from the Run to Remember, I can't imagine tackling this challenge without him. Matty has not only tailored my training to fit my demanding travel schedule but also addressed every aspect of my run, preparing both my body and mindset for the 1400km journey through Thailand. I truly believe working with him will be the difference between completing the run and breaking down physically.

Stacey Sewtnam

I came to Matty barely able to walk after cancer treatment, and six months later I completed a half marathon feeling strong and confident. His personalised approach, clear direction, and constant support helped me rebuild safely. Truly life-changing coaching.

Shane Bannister

I’d never run beyond a half marathon when I messaged Matty asking if I was crazy to enter Ultra-Trail Kosciuszko 100. His detailed plan, strength work, race-specific sessions and clear ‘why’ behind everything gave me the confidence to line up ready to perform.

Mimi Blanks

Training with Matty Abel has been a game changer for my fitness. At the beginning of the year, I could barely run 5km, and now I’m smashing half marathons and feeling fitter than ever. Matty’s personalised approach, combined with his regular check-ins, keeps me motivated and focused on my goals. I’m stronger, faster, and more confident with every run. I couldn’t recommend him highly enough!

Justin Dengate

Matty's a legend. He actually coaches the individual instead of just handing out generic plans and he’s been huge in teaching me about patience and leaving the ego at the door. He’s always open to talk through my ideas and listen to what I think I need. He genuinely cares and is just a top-tier human to have in your corner.

Thank you

We'll be in touch soon.

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