2020 has been a rough year for a lot of businesses who have had to adapt, dig deep and some even close their doors for portions of the year due to COVID. It’s hard to comprehend the level of stress that goes on as a small business owner at a time like this, if you haven’t been in their shoes. As a small business ourselves, we give a shit about small businesses, particularly those in the running and endurance sports space and really want them to do well. We can’t do much, but what we can do is support the businesses who support us and our runners. So, with that in mind, here’s 10 businesses that we love, that help our runners and that we are excited about watching in 2021. Check them out, you won’t regret it!
The Running Company
I am so glad that The Running Company is doing well. I used to hate going into sports shops and dealing with people who knew nothing about running and trying to sell you the latest Asics Kayano no matter who you were, or how you ran. These guys do things differently. They give a shit about runners and love their running. They stock the stuff they like and they give you what you need. They offer a range of shoe types and brands and will give you a gait analysis to help determine what works best for you. It’s awesome that there are now TRC options in Albert Park, Lilydale, Clifton Hill, Ballarat, Sunshine Coast and beyond… Check out The Running Company here: https://www.therunningcompany.com.au/
Navi
What can I say about Sam and Navi?! Legend. Simple as that. Sam has upped the game for women specific tri-suits. The patterns are bold and daring, just like Sam herself. She is on a mission to make those bold designs come to life in suits that are all made from recycled materials in 2021. As a working mum, this line of work is not an easy one to take, but every woman who wears one of these tri-suits gets positive comments about their look on event day and feels great during their race.
Check out Navi here: https://iamnavi.com/
The Balanced Runner
Paul is one of a kind. I’ve personally been to see Paul to look at my own movement patterns when I run, and his guidance and cues were simple, understandable and invaluable. As a coach, I love seeing the way Paul goes about his work and I think he has raised the bar for others to aspire to in this movement and technique space. Would highly recommend booking in an appointment if you are curious about improving your running movements, efficiency and technique.
Check him out here: https://www.thebalancedrunner.com.au/
Glimmer Gear
Sarah is a firm part of the trail running community in Victoria. I have coached Sarah for a few years to marathon and ultra marathon successes and I can safely say that I don’t know anyone who works as hard as she does! Glimmer Gear is her baby and they sell pretty much everything you would need to keep safe and keep going out there on the roads and trails. Food, packs, hydration, mandatory gear, apparel, lighting, gps, headphones and the list goes on… Its a seriously good range. There is an emphasis towards the trails and adventure in the products and Sarah tests everything herself, which is awesome!
Check out Glimmer Gear here: https://activeequip.com.au/
Up and Running Podiatry
These guys and girls are athletes as well as podiatrists. They get it. We want to keep moving and keep healthy, rather than sitting on the couch waiting to heal. They are always looking into the latest tools and techniques to help their patients heal and get back to running, including prescribing running programs to work you back in gently. I have personally worked with co-owners Matt and Gary for years now and can’t recommend them enough. At GoRun, we have also had one of their podiatrists, Grace Buchan who is also a AFLW Champion, speak to our runners in the past. This team work hard and particularly in 2020, really dug deep to open up new clinics in Elsternwick and Williamstown to add to their Port Melbourne clinic.
Check out Up and Running Podiatry here: https://www.upandrunningpodiatry.com.au/
Port Melbourne Physiotherapy & Pilates
Sally and Sheree are two of the biggest supporters of GoRun and our runners. They have supported everything from our 17 marathons in 2017 fundraiser, through to recovery workshops and referrals for runners looking to run injury free. I have coached a number of the physios at PMPP to get back into running, 5km PB’s, marathon PB’s and more. This group understands runners and has a range of specialties including women getting back into activity post baby. Clinical Pilates classes are personalised to what you need and are a great addition to your running. I’ve spent a lot of time in this place and they make you feel like one of the family. Good people, with good values and always looking to help.
Check out PMPP here: https://portmelbournephysio.com.au/
Trail Bus
Chris Wright is one of life’s good guys. Always kind, generous and giving, this man and his bus are a match made in heaven. I am so pleased to see this trail running venture get off the ground, despite all of the interruptions that 2020 brought us. If you are keen on trail running but are a bit nervous about safety, or where to go, or who to go with, this could be your jam. They have qualified coaches, guides and are insured with all the right authorities. This is a thorough, slick and fun operation that I couldn’t recommend more. I’ll definitely be getting on board for a trip or two in 2021!
Check out Trail Bus here: https://trailbus.com.au/
Run Power Coach
If you’re keen on learning about power, watts and how to train using these metrics, then Nathan Fenton is your man in Melbourne. Nathan coaches a range of athletes, including ultra distance athletes who have all found a power based methodology to suit them. Nathan is also really interested in the strength and conditioning game and can prescribe specific routines and sets to help you get stronger for your running. I’ve certainly learnt from Nathan and definitely recommend his work.
Check him out here: https://runpowercoach.com/
Momentum Endurance Coaching
Another business that I can personally vouch for, having been coached by Michael for several years and achieving my best results under his guidance. This bunch are going places, with a new schools program for juniors and a growing stable of age group athletes, taking on all forms of triathlon and endurance activities. It’s a personal approach to your goals and coaching, within a group setting that appeals to most people as well as the distinct lack of ego in the group. I have loved being part of this group and am now a Director and coach with the group as well. If triathlon is going to be your thing in 2021, give these guys a shout.
Check out Momentum Endurance Coaching here: https://www.momentumendurancecoaching.com.au/
Oat Running
This is a brand new company and the last addition to this list. Andy, a local triathlete and runner who has been to Kona for the Ironman World Championships has started his own little venture into the world of running apparel. His first products are running socks, something that we all need! Can’t wait to see what is to come in 2021, but for now I’ll be grabbing myself a couple of pairs of the navy crew socks, thanks!
Check out Oat Running here: https://www.oatrunning.com/shop