Coaching Methodology Nicolette Griffioen coaching for mountain, trail & ultra runners
My approach to coaching strives to integrate the science of sport, the art of coaching, and a love for movement and the natural environment.
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The Science | I believe in grounding training in the most relevant and accurate knowledge available. Performance is shaped not only by how we train, but also by how we eat, rest, and think. My veterinary training has given me a strong scientific lens through which I understand physiology, nutrition, and long-term health, and I bring that perspective into my coaching. I am committed to continuous learning so that the athletes I work with benefit from guidance that is evidence-based and practical.
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The Art | Training is never one-size-fits-all. Each athlete brings unique goals, schedules, and life circumstances, and it takes more than data to design a plan that truly fits. Coaching is about listening, adapting, and supporting the emotional and psychological side of the journey. Whether encouragement or accountability is needed, my role is to be present as a human guide through the challenges of training.
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The Love | At the heart of it all is a simple truth: movement should be enjoyed. Sustainable performance comes from finding joy in the process, not just chasing outcomes. My philosophy prioritizes long-term health and well-being, so that athletes can continue to move confidently and comfortably for years to come. Achieving peak performance is a wonderful milestone, but cultivating a lifelong love of movement is the greater reward.
Focus Coaching Methodology - Nicolette Griffioen coaching
Mountain, Trail & Ultra Running
Trail and mountain running are at the heart of my coaching. Whether you’re aiming for short, fast efforts or tackling ultra-endurance distances, I work with athletes of all levels to build confidence and strength on rugged terrain. Training plans are tailored to your unique strengths and challenges, helping you become a more efficient uphill runner, skilled on technical descents, and capable of navigating remote mountain environments. Guidance on gear, nutrition, and race preparation ensures you’re ready for both local and international events, from single-day races to multi-stage ultras. With personal experience up to 100 miles, I bring both knowledge and passion to help athletes discover their own resilience and reach new summits.
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Road Running
While the trails are my specialty, I also value the simplicity and rhythm of road running. From half-marathons to the Comrades, I’ve supported athletes across South Africa and beyond in achieving their road racing goals. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or completing a bucket-list event, I’ll help you train smart and sustainably.
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Cross Training
Strength and complementary disciplines play a vital role in building resilient runners. Strength training improves stability, efficiency, and injury resistance, while cycling offers low-impact conditioning and active recovery. For athletes interested in triathlon, I provide guidance across swim, bike, and run, drawing on my own experience in road, off-road, and extreme triathlon. Together, these elements support balanced development, ensuring trail and ultra runners can perform at their best while maintaining long-term health.
Pricing
R1650 per month, all inclusive:
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Individualised training plan;
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Ongoing review & adaptation based on your feedback;
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Unlimited communication via FinalSurge, WhatsApp & email;
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Full access to the FinalSurge training platform;​
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Customised strength, bike and swim sessions as necessary;
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Comprehensive guidance on in-run fueling and hydration;
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Additional advice on day-to-day nutrition if required;
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Nutritionally periodized training;
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Discount on partner brands.
Training Platform
I use FinalSurge as my coaching platform because it strikes the right balance between sophistication and simplicity. It’s intuitive enough for athletes of all digital abilities to follow their training plans, review session data, and share feedback, yet it doesn’t rely excessively on algorithms. While I value the insights that certain metrics can provide, I encourage athletes to develop awareness of their own bodies and not become dependent on numbers alone. FinalSurge offers just the right mix of useful statistics and space for human connection, allowing me to build meaningful relationships with the athletes I coach. This combination helps optimize not only physical performance, but also mental and emotional well-being throughout the training journey. Nicolette Griffioen coaching