Active Balance Running Clinic
Race Preparation Programs
Got a race on the horizon? We've put together three packages designed to give you the right level of support for your experience and goals, from a one-off professional assessment to a full physiotherapy-led preparation program.
Training for a race can be one of the most rewarding things you can do as a runner. It gives your training purpose, a timeline, and something to work toward. It also places a significant and sustained demand on your body, and how well you manage that demand is what determines how you arrive at the start line.
At Active Balance, our race preparation programs are built around one goal: getting you to race day in the best possible shape. That means running well, feeling strong, and knowing that the work you've done has prepared you properly, not just physically, but with the confidence that comes from having expert support behind you throughout.
Our programs combine physiotherapist-led running assessment, personalised training and strength programs, recovery support, and ongoing access to your physio — all tailored to your experience level, your goals, and the race you're preparing for.
Whether you're toeing the start line for the first time or chasing a personal best, there's a package built for where you're at.
Program Options:
Our packages are built around a 12-week preparation program; enough time to build your fitness progressively, address any weaknesses identified in your assessment, and arrive at race day prepared. Each package starts with a comprehensive running assessment so we understand exactly where you're at before building anything.
Choose the level of support that suits you:
Perfect for runners who want professional guidance before starting their training.
Includes:
- Comprehensive 60-minute running assessment
- Video running analysis
- Strength and mobility screening
- Injury risk assessment
- Footwear review
- Personalised recommendations
- Training guidance
Ideal for experienced runners who already have a training plan and want to identify weaknesses, improve efficiency, and reduce injury risk.
Race Prep Essentials
Everything you need to prepare confidently for race day.
Includes:
- Comprehensive 60-minute running assessment
- Personalised 12-week training program
- Runner strength program
- Unlimited Recovery Room access throughout the program (Normatec compression boots and infrared sauna)
- Email/text message support for training questions
Ideal for new and intermediate runners wanting structure, guidance, and recovery support throughout their preparation.
Race Prep Complete (Most Popular)
Our complete physiotherapy-led training and recovery package.
Includes:
- Comprehensive 60-minute running assessment
- Personalised 12-week training program
- Runner strength program
- 2 x 30-minute progress review appointments over the 12 weeks
- Unlimited Recovery Room access throughout the program (Normatec compression boots and infrared sauna)
- Email support for training questions
- Race week preparation guide
- Post-race recovery guide
Ideal for runners who want expert support throughout their preparation and confidence that any niggles can be addressed before race day.
Race Prep Premium
The highest level of support we offer, with hands-on treatment built in.
Includes:
- Comprehensive 60-minute running assessment
- Personalised 12-week training program
- Runner strength program
- 2 x 30-minute progress review appointments
- 1 x 60-minute remedial or sports massage
- Unlimited Recovery Room access throughout the program (Normatec compression boots and infrared sauna)
- Email support for training questions
- Race week preparation guide
- Post-race recovery guide
Ideal for runners who want the full package: structured preparation, regular check-ins, hands-on treatment, and complete recovery support from start to finish.
Pricing:
Race Prep Assessment
$199
Race Prep
Essentials
$349
Race Prep
Complete
$499
Race Prep
Premium
$599
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be injured to come and see you?
Not at all. Many of the runners we work with come in without an active injury — to improve their efficiency, reduce their risk ahead of a race, or simply to understand how their body is moving. If you're running regularly or building toward an event, getting assessed before something goes wrong is often the smartest move you can make.
My injury keeps coming back every time I ramp up my training. What's going on?
This is one of the most common things we hear. Rest resolves pain, but it doesn't address the underlying cause. If the load or movement issue that created the injury hasn't been corrected, the problem will return as soon as training resumes. A thorough assessment looks at why the injury happened — not just where — and addresses those drivers directly.
Will I have to stop running during my rehab?
In most cases, no. Wherever it's clinically appropriate, we build your program around your running rather than pulling you out of it. Complete rest is rarely the only or best option, and we'll always be clear about our reasoning.
I have a race coming up soon. Is it too late to book?
Not necessarily. Get in touch and tell us your timeline — we'll be honest about what we can realistically achieve and work with whatever window you have. Even in the final weeks before a race there's often meaningful work to be done.
Which race prep package is right for me?
If you already have a training plan and just want a professional set of eyes on your running, the Race Prep Assessment is a great starting point. If you want a full program built for you with recovery support included, the Essentials, Complete or Premium packages are the way to go. Not sure? Give us a call and we'll talk it through with you.
Can I do the strength program at home?
Yes. We'll build your program around whatever you have access to — whether that's our onsite gym, your own gym, or a set of resistance bands at home. Most of what runners need can be done effectively with minimal equipment.
What's included in the Recovery Zone?
The Recovery Zone includes Normatec compression boots and infrared sauna. Both are available as part of our race prep packages, or as standalone sessions if you just want to drop in and recover after a long run or hard session.
Do you work with beginner runners?
Absolutely. We work with runners of all levels and experience — from people who have never run before to competitive athletes. Our programs and assessments are tailored to where you're at and what you're working toward.
Why Runners Choose Active Balance
- We use objective data, not guesswork. VALD ForceDecks and Dynamo testing means every assessment and progress check is grounded in real numbers — so you can see exactly where you're improving and what still needs work.
- We treat the cause. A thorough assessment looks at the whole picture: how you move, where load is going, and what's driving any pain or inefficiency. That's what leads to lasting results rather than short-term relief.
- We keep you running. Wherever clinically appropriate, we build programs around your training rather than pulling you out of it. Complete rest is rarely the answer.
- We have everything under one roof. Assessment, strength training, rehab, recovery, and soon sports nutrition — all available at our St Marys clinic, with a fully equipped gym and Recovery Zone.