Running Coaching
Our Philosophy
“Sharing the science, art and love of movement for a lifetime of sustainable and optimal performance.”
Our philosophy towards coaching at Mountain Abandon is a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, we aim to bring you the latest and most accurate science of sport. This applies to all areas of training - the way you eat, sleep and think is just as important as the way you move! Mountain Abandon’s coaches are continuously self-educating to ensure that their athletes have access to the best science-based guidance available.
The second component of our philosophy is the art of coaching. All the science in the world cannot design a training plan that is congruent with each individual’s schedule, work-life balance or training history and goals. The emotional aspect of training also falls under the art of coaching. Whether you prefer the drill-sergeant or cheer-leader coach, it will always take a human to listen, understand and motivate you when training gets tough. No number of automated computer comments are ever going to replace the emotional support and accountability role of a good coach.
The third aspect of our coaching approach is based on the love of movement. Mountain Abandon originates from a desire to move freely in nature, and aims to share this passion with others. Basically, everything comes down to a single simple conclusion – if you do not enjoy your training journey then your energy and time could be better spent elsewhere. So above all else our coaches promote a fun outlook and sustainable training process which prioritises athletes’ long-term physical well-being. To perform your sport at the highest possible level is an amazing achievement, but to move optimally and comfortably in your chosen discipline and environment until an old age is perhaps a greater accomplishment.

What We Offer
Trail Running
For all levels, from beginner to elite. Everyone has to start somewhere and so did we!
Mountain Running
Our true passion... Learn to ascend strongly, descend like a pro and love mountain running as much as we do!
Ultra Running
Whether it's trail or mountain, the further you move the more you see. With the right guidance anything is possible!
Our Coaches
Mountain Abandon currently has two qualified coaches available to athletes – Nicolette Griffioen and Pierre Jordaan. Both are competent and experienced athletes with a passion for science and a love of teaching. Athletes interested in coaching with Mountain Abandon are free to contact us to arrange a phone call with either or both of our coaches before deciding with whom they would like to train. At Mountain Abandon we believe that a good personality match is an integral part of a successful coach-athlete relationship, so read more about our coaches, contact us to arrange a phone conservation, or fire us an email with questions and we’ll be happy to answer!


Coaching Platform
Xhale Coaching is our current choice of training platform. Xhale was initially designed for triathletes as a simplistic, minimalistic and intuitive platform to schedule and record training. Essentially a digital version of a modern day "training diary" or "notebook", it maintains a clear focus on basic training metrics without overly-complex analysis. At Mountain Abandon we are not sold on algorithms that make predictions on an athlete's performance. For us it’s about developing a relationship with our athletes that allows for optimisation of not only the physical, but the mental and emotional as well.
Training Programs
We offer two training packages. With both the Premium Package and Standard Package your coach designs you a training plan. The key difference between the two is the amount of communication you'll have with your coach. With the Full Package your coach will initiate regular and frequent communication to follow up on your key sessions and day-to-day progress. The Standard Package assumes you're looking for a coach primarily to ensure that you complete your sessions and so communication is as-needed rather than on a regular basis. Both packages includes a strength training plan along with advice and insight into race day nutrition and hydration strategies. Both plans also gives you discount to our gear and coffee partners
Black Diamond Equipment and Trail Running gear
Gegrond - Coffee for the Unrestricted
The Premium Package also offer great discounts to any of the Mountain Abandon training camps and Adventures.
Premium Package
Personal coach
Individualised training plan designed around your goals, strengths and weaknesses
Unlimited communication
Continuous review and adaptation of training your plan
Individualized strength training plan
Full access to Xhale training platform
Discount on training weekends and running camps
R1250 / $90 per month
Standard Package
Personal coach
Individualised training plan designed around your goals, strengths and weaknesses
Weekly communication
Weekly review and adaptation of your training plan
Full access to Xhale training platform
Standard running specific strength training plan
R950 / $65 per month
* Discounts available for couple coaching packages. Please contact us for more details.