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

Stop hitting plateaus and start seeing real results. This eBook will empower you to:

  • Increase your running speed and endurance
  • Improve your running economy and efficiency
  • Enhance your power and explosiveness
  • Reduce your risk of injury
  • Recover faster from tough workouts

Get your copy today and unlock your running potential!

This comprehensive eBook provides a progressive 20-week strength training program designed specifically for runners of all levels. Whether you’re aiming to conquer your first 5k or looking to run a mountain ultra, this guide will help you build the strength and resilience needed to achieve your goals.

Price: $149

Get your copy today and unlock your running potential!

Inside, you’ll discover:

  • Foundational exercises: Master the essential movements for building a strong and stable base.
  • Progressive programming: Gradually increase the intensity and complexity of your workouts as you gain strength.
  • Running-specific exercises: Develop strength and power tailored to the unique demands of running.
  • Injury prevention strategies: Strengthen key muscles to reduce your risk of common running injuries.
  • Easy-to-follow instructions: Clear explanations and photos demonstrate proper form for each exercise.
  • Training schedule: A structured 20-week plan seamlessly integrates strength training into your running routine.
Buy now

Payment plan options are available via Klarna.

You’ve done the training. You’ve run the races. But sub-3 keeps slipping away, not because you’re not fit enough, but because you haven’t had a system built to get you there.

This is that system.

Built exclusively for runners chasing a sub-3-hour marathon, this is not a generic plan you could find anywhere online. It’s a standards-based, evidence-driven program designed to develop the aerobic capacity, strength, and race-day execution to sustain ~4:10-4:15/km for 42.2km, consistently.

Every session is structured, progressive, and purposeful. No junk miles. No guesswork. Just the work that moves the needle.

Are you ready for this program?

As a guide, you should be capable of running approximately 30 seconds per kilometre faster than your goal marathon pace over 5km. For a sub-3 finish (4:15/km), that’s roughly 3:45/km for 5km. This isn’t about ego, it’s a readiness filter to make sure the training is appropriate, safe, and effective for you.

$196.00 – one-off investment. 16 weeks of structured, purposeful training.

Full access to the complete Sub-3 Marathon Performance System via TrainingPeaks. All workouts, strength sessions, and guidance loaded and ready to go from day one.

This is a self-guided program. Coaching support and customisation are available as an add-on.

Testimonial

“I’d tried sub-3 twice before. Matty’s system got me there in 2:58:42 at the Sydney Marathon. The structure made all the difference.” – James, Sydney

What’s included:

  • 16-week fully structured marathon program delivered via TrainingPeaks, built on a proven 3-weeks-on, 1-week-deload framework
  • Progressive mileage and intensity aligned specifically to sub-3 demands – nothing generic
  • Key weekly sessions including long runs, marathon-pace work, threshold runs, and aerobic development
  • Integrated strength training focused on durability, tissue capacity, and fatigue resistance
  • Clear pacing guidance to keep every session controlled and purposeful – not ego-driven
  • Built-in deload weeks to reduce injury risk and manage cumulative fatigue
  • Fuel and recovery reminders embedded throughout to support performance and consistency
  • Race-week and race-day execution guidance so you arrive fresh and ready to perform

This program is not for you if:

  • You’re a first-time marathon runner
  • You’re currently injured or returning from bone stress without a proper base phase
  • You want a casual, flexible, or “just finish” plan
  • You’re not willing to commit to pacing, recovery, and structure

               

GET MY SUB-3 PLAN

Payment plan options are available via Klarna.

You’ve got a solid running base. You’ve proven you can go the distance. But breaking 3:15 requires more than fitness, it requires a system that bridges the gap between where you are and where you want to be.

This is that system.

Built specifically for runners chasing a sub-3:15 marathon, this is not a generic plan. It’s a structured, evidence-driven program designed to develop the aerobic capacity, lactate threshold, and race-day discipline to sustain ~4:37/km for 42.2km, deliberately and consistently.

Every session has a purpose. Every week builds on the last. No junk miles. No guesswork. Just progressive, purposeful training that moves you closer to 3:15.

Are you ready for this program?

As a guide, you should be capable of running approximately 30 seconds per kilometre faster than your goal marathon pace over 5km. For a sub-3:15 finish (4:37/km), that’s roughly 4:07/km for 5km. This is a readiness guide to ensure the training is appropriate, safe, and effective for you.

$196 – one-off investment. 16 weeks of structured, purposeful training.

Full access to the complete Sub-3:15 Marathon Performance System via TrainingPeaks – all workouts, strength sessions, and guidance loaded and ready to go from day one.

This is a self-guided program. Coaching support and customisation are available as an add-on.

Testimonial

“I’d been stuck at 3:20 for two years. This program gave me exactly the structure I was missing. Finished in 3:12 at the Melbourne Marathon and I couldn’t be happier.” – Chris D., Melbourne

What’s included:

  • 16-week fully structured marathon program delivered via TrainingPeaks, built on a proven 3-weeks-on, 1-week-deload framework
  • Progressive mileage and intensity calibrated specifically to sub-3:15 demands
  • Key weekly sessions including long runs, marathon-pace work, threshold runs, and aerobic development
  • Integrated strength training focused on durability, tissue capacity, and injury resilience
  • Clear pacing guidance to keep every session controlled and purposeful, not ego-driven
  • Built-in deload weeks to manage fatigue and keep you healthy through the full 16 weeks
  • Fuel and recovery reminders embedded throughout to support consistency and performance
  • Race-week and race-day execution guidance so you arrive confident and ready to perform

This program is not for you if:

  • You’re currently injured or returning from injury without a proper base phase
  • You’re not yet running consistently (at least 3-4 times per week)
  • You want a casual, flexible, or “just finish” plan
  • You’re not willing to commit to pacing, recovery, and structure

GET MY SUB-3:15 PLAN

Payment plan options are available via Klarna.

Whether it’s your first marathon or you’ve been chasing 3:30 for years, one thing is true: getting there requires more than just logging kilometres. It requires a system.

This is that system.

Built for runners ready to commit to a sub-3:30 finish, this is not a one-size-fits-all plan pulled from the internet. It’s a structured, evidence-driven program designed to develop the aerobic base, running economy, and race-day confidence to sustain ~4:58/km for 42.2km – consistently, not by chance.

Every session has a purpose. Every week builds on the last. No junk miles. No guesswork. Just deliberate, progressive training that moves you forward.

Are you ready for this program?

As a guide, you should be capable of running approximately 30 seconds per kilometre faster than your goal marathon pace over 5km. For a sub-3:30 finish (4:58/km), that’s roughly 4:28/km for 5km or faster. This isn’t about ego, it’s a readiness filter to make sure the training is appropriate, safe, and effective for you.

$196 – one-off investment. 16 weeks of structured, purposeful training.

Full access to the complete Sub-3:30 Marathon Performance System via TrainingPeaks – all workouts, strength sessions, and guidance loaded and ready to go from day one.

This is a self-guided program. Coaching support and customisation are available as an add-on.

Testimonial

“I’d run three marathons and 3:30 always felt out of reach. This program was different – every session had a purpose and I finally understood why. Finished in 3:26 at the Gold Coast Marathon.” – Emma R., Brisbane

What’s included:

  • 16-week fully structured marathon program delivered via TrainingPeaks, built on a proven 3-weeks-on, 1-week-deload framework
  • Progressive mileage and intensity calibrated to sub-3:30 demands – building your base before pushing your limits
  • Key weekly sessions including long runs, marathon-pace work, tempo runs, and aerobic development
  • Integrated strength training focused on durability, tissue capacity, and injury resilience
  • Clear pacing guidance to keep every session honest and purposeful – effort-based, not ego-driven
  • Built-in deload weeks to manage fatigue and keep you healthy through the full 16 weeks
  • Fuel and recovery reminders embedded throughout to support consistency and performance
  • Race-week and race-day execution guidance so you arrive confident and ready to perform

This program is not for you if:

  • You’re currently injured or returning from injury without a proper base phase
  • You’re not yet running consistently (at least 3-4 times per week)
  • You want a casual, flexible, or “just finish” plan
  • You’re not willing to commit to pacing, recovery, and structure

               

GET MY SUB-3:30 PLAN

Payment plan options are available via Klarna.

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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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