About The Balanced Runner
The Balanced Runner is a running technique coaching service led by Melbourne-based coach Paul Mackinnon. The focus is simple: improve running technique for performance, injury prevention and enjoyment.
The core approach is a cue-based, top-down system that starts with the upper body and refines movement gradually. It’s been developed and tested over years of work with hundreds of runners, from beginners through to Olympic finalists and national record holders, and is now delivered worldwide via an online video program plus in-person sessions.
Services
Online Running Technique Program
Improve your form from anywhere.
Includes:
- Built from insights working with hundreds of runners, from beginners to Olympians
- Exclusive video series of technique cues
- Step-by-step structure to work through at your own pace
- Improve efficiency
- Reduce injury risk
- Help you run faster with less wasted energy
In-Person Coaching Sessions
Hands-on technique coaching with Paul.
Includes:
- One-to-one coaching with Paul in Melbourne, with regular trips to Queensland
- Practical, cue-based sessions focused on real-time improvements to technique
- Complements the online program for runners who want direct feedback and on-the-spot adjustments
Who The Balanced Runner Works With
- Runners from beginner to professional/Olympic finalist level
Athletes wanting to:
- Improve technique for more speed and efficiency
- Reduce injury risk linked to poor movement patterns
- Enjoy running more by using less energy and feeling smoother
- Runners based anywhere (via the online program), plus those able to attend in-person sessions in Melbourne or during Paul’s trips to Queensland
What To Expect
- A skill-based approach to running, treating it like any other technical sport movement
- Technique changes built around simple, practical cues rather than chasing a specific “look”
- A top-down method: starting with upper-body mechanics and gradually refining the whole chain
- Focus on:
- Balance and alignment
- Forward propulsion with minimal excess movement
- Feeling immediate changes that can be refined over time
- From the online program:
- Step-by-step video explanations of each cue
- Summary key points to help you apply changes in your own running
- Guidance to understand your own movement so you can adjust as you go
Qualifications
- Paul has lived a high-performance sporting life as a semi-professional hockey player for 15 years in Australia and Europe, with access to elite programs, athletes and coaches.
- He has been a full-time running technique coach for almost a decade, working with runners from beginner level through to Olympic finalists and national record holders.
- The core philosophy was originally developed by Lex Anderson in Canberra and further refined by Paul through years of coaching practice.
Ready to work with Paul?
Learn more or book directly through his website!
