Ian Whitmore – Melbourne Running Coach
$40.00 / month and a $19.00 sign-up fee
50% off your first month! Dad, runner, coach — I make training plans that fit your life, crush goals, and still leave time for coffee (and the kids!).
Description
Say goodbye to generic plans. Say hello to coaching that actually works.
I’m Ian Whitmore — dad, runner, and Melbourne Running coach who gets it. Whether it’s your first 5K or your 50th marathon, I’ll craft a plan that fits your life, keeps training fun, and gets you across the finish line stronger than ever.
*** 50% off First Month for month-to-month Coaching – Coupon Code: 50%whitmore***
LEVELS: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
TYPES: Road, Trail
DISTANCES: 5k/10k/Half Marathon, Marathon
TRAINING PLATFORM: Final Surge
TRAINING PLAN: Individual, customized training plan
COMMUNICATION: Unlimited email, unlimited text, unlimited phone
RESPONSE TIME: Within 24 hours
LOCATION: Melbourne, Australia
IN-PERSON SESSIONS: No, online coaching only
SPECIALTIES
Custom coaching that’s simple, smart, and centred on your goals. With a clear focus on individualised training plans designed for real people in the real world. I merge solid experience with an upbeat, supportive coaching style. Whether you’re chasing your first 5K or aiming to run your best marathon yet, I’ll give you the structure, motivation and accountability you need — all with a friendly, no‑nonsense approach.
PHILOSOPHY
I believe in keeping things simple: clear communication, real results, and a few smiles along the way — life’s too short to run any other way!
COACHING EXPERIENCE
My love for running spans 15+ years, with formal coaching starting in 2023. I’ve helped recreational runners of all levels improve endurance, speed, and consistency. Originally from the UK, I now calls Melbourne home, balancing running, coaching, and family life — which gives me a real understanding of time constraints, busy schedules, and the need for practical plans.
ABOUT ME
I’ve been running for over 15 years and am originally from the UK. Although, I now live in the sports capital of the world – Melbourne, Australia! With a young family, I understand the importance of time and fitness. This is both for your mental health and keeping up with your kids.
BIG INFLUENCES
My dad! The guy clocked up 50 marathons.
RACING HISTORY
I’ve completed eight marathons to date. My debut was the Melbourne Marathon. However, a standout moment for me was running a solo marathon around my suburb during the COVID-19 lockdowns in Victoria. That experience taught me a great deal about personal resilience and the mental strength required to push through challenging moments. The 30-38 km mark of that marathon is particularly memorable, and I’d be eager to share how we can tackle that final 10k together. Besides marathons, I’ve participated in numerous half marathons, 10k, and 5k events, on both roads and trails, which helps keep the running experience varied and exciting.
CERTIFICATIONS
- Athletics Australia – Recreational Running, level 1
PRs
- Marathon – 3.51.09. Melbourne Marathon. Oct 2025.
- Half Marathon – 1.35.04, 28th Feb 2021. Sandy Point Half Marathon, Melbourne Australia
- 10k – 43.03, 12th Dec 2019. End of year run party. Melbourne Australia
- 5k – 20.06, 28th November 2020. Individual time trial when you just want to go fast.
CONTACT IAN
Finding a coach who is a great fit for you is really important. We encourage you to email your coach prior to signing up so you can connect, communicate, and ensure a good athlete/coach fit.
PUBLICATIONS
SOCIAL
Ashleigh –
Ian is a fantastic and knowledgeable coach who keeps me accountable and motivates me to do well. I have seen a marked improvement in my running thanks to his running program which I love because it can be tailored to me and my abilities. I never thought I’d be able to run a half marathon but with Ian’s guidance and coaching I was able to run the entire way without stopping and had the best time knowing that my training had paid off. Ian is great and I can’t recommend him enough!
Shao –
After training with Coach Ian , i found out he’s fantastic. He helped me over the past few months to achieve my goal in 5k and the results are looking good. Whenever i have a problem, he will help me to solve it. He is great coach and pushing me towards the next pb. Thanks coach Ian !
Amrom K. –
I have been using Ian as my Coach for around 6 Months and he has been a great Coach to me. He helps me get faster and more efficient and creates good schedules for my specific needs. He always responds quickly especially on Whats App and he also sends helping videos and will video chat when needed. Looking fwd to continue using him and break more PR’s 💪
Nicholas Kasterine –
I had the pleasure of working with Coach Ian, and I can confidently say they transformed my relationship with running. Before, I struggled to find motivation and joy in the sport. Ian’s personalized training plans made all the difference. Thanks to Ian, I now genuinely love running and look forward to each session. I highly recommend Coach Ian to anyone looking to improve their running and find a true passion for the sport.
Steph Elovaris –
Ian is an awesome coach. He is super approachable, easy to chat to and instills a lot of confidence in his runners. His programs are awesome, achievable and he goes above and beyond to ensure his runners smash their goals. He caters to all levels of running, and has great knowledge of the sport to give advice to those who don’t know much. I’m enjoying working with Ian and look forward to the months ahead.
Carly Cowper –
Thank you Ian for getting me over the line for my 1/2 Marathon at Run Melbourne.
Having you set out a plan for me that assisted me to achieve my goal was crucial in my training. Each training session was thought out and got me that one step closer to getting my best time. You always checked in with me and gave me feedback which I could apply to my next run. The plan was easy to read and full of variety. I felt strong on the day and knew I was prepared for the Half Marathon. Thank you, I will be calling on you again for my next event… a fast 10km!! Bring it on!
Charlie –
Ian is a fantastic running coach! I really wanted to get off my sofa and back out in the fresh air doing regular exercise. He has really helped me to stay accountable and has been really flexible with my training plan, as I have an 18mo daughter and it’s not always easy to get out for walks and runs. We have begun with building up my strength and I really feel like running is possible again, thanks to Ian!