About Nic

Building Runners Who Last

I'm Nic Acampora — a running coach and biokineticist who works with runners across all levels, from beginners finding their stride to experienced athletes chasing personal bests at any distance.

My focus isn't on quick wins or shortcuts. It's on long-term development — training that builds you up without breaking you down. Whether you're targeting your first 5km or an ultra marathon, I'd love to work with you.

Nic Acampora
Professional Background

More Than Just a Coach

What sets me apart is my background as a biokineticist. I don't just program training — I understand movement, injury mechanics, and how to build resilience into your running.

MSc Sports Medicine

University of South Wales, UK

Advanced postgraduate study in exercise physiology, injury prevention, and performance optimisation for endurance athletes.

BSc Sports Science (Honours) — Biokinetics

University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)

Specialised training in movement analysis, rehabilitation, and corrective exercise prescription.

Registered Biokineticist

Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)

Over 10 years in private practice working with athletes and active individuals on injury rehabilitation and prevention.

Running Coach & Podcast Host

Making A Runner

Coaching runners from 5km to ultra marathon distances, and sharing evidence-based training insights through the Making A Runner podcast.

Coaching Philosophy

Why I Coach Differently

Most runners get injured or plateau because they push too hard, too soon, or follow generic plans that don't account for their individual needs. I take a different approach — one that prioritizes consistency, progression, and injury prevention over quick results.

Individualised

No cookie-cutter plans. Your training is built around your goals, your schedule, and your body.

Progressive

Smart progression that builds fitness without breaking you down. We push forward, but we do it sustainably.

Sustainable

Training that fits into your life and keeps you healthy for the long run. No burnout, no shortcuts.

Slow rather than sorry. That's the mindset. We build your training around what your body can handle today, while progressively preparing it for what you want to achieve tomorrow.

My Story

My Running Journey

Running has been one of the most rewarding journeys of my life.

Although I grew up with a competitive sporting background, it wasn't until 2018 that I truly discovered endurance running. What started as a personal challenge quickly became a passion and ultimately a way of life.

Since then, I have completed multiple Comrades Marathons, marathon and ultra-marathon races, and achieved personal bests that once felt completely out of reach. Along the way, I have experienced the highs of breakthrough performances and the lows of injury, disappointment, and setbacks. Those experiences have shaped not only the runner I am today, but also the coach I have become.

My philosophy is simple: smart training, hard work, and consistency over time. I believe the greatest gains come from staying healthy, trusting the process, and focusing on long-term development rather than chasing short-term results.

As both a coach and an athlete, I continue to push my own limits while helping others do the same. Whether you're aiming for your first 10km, a marathon personal best, or a Comrades finish, I understand the journey because I am living it alongside you.

The road has taught me that running is about far more than times and medals. It's about growth, resilience, community, and discovering what you're truly capable of.

Who I Work With

Runners at Every Level

Whether you're just starting out or chasing a personal best, if you're committed to improving, I can help you get there.

Beginners

Starting your running journey and building a solid foundation.

PB Chasers

Experienced runners looking to break through plateaus and hit new goals.

Marathon & Ultra Runners

Distance athletes preparing for their next big race.

Injury-Prone Runners

Runners who need a smarter approach to stay healthy and consistent.

My Approach

How I Work With You

Hands-On & Responsive

I'm here when you need me. Regular check-ins, quick responses, and ongoing support throughout your training.

Supportive but Honest

I'll push you when you need it and pull you back when you don't. No sugarcoating, just clear, practical guidance.

Focused on Consistency

The best training plan is the one you can stick to. We build around your life, not the other way around.

Evidence-Based

Every decision is grounded in sports science and real-world experience — not trends or guesswork.

Ready to Train Smarter?

If you're serious about improving your running and want to do it the right way — I'd love to work with you.

Explore Coaching Options
Making A Runner

Evidence-based coaching for serious runners. Train smarter, stay injury-free, and build long-term running fitness.

Connect

© 2026 Making A Runner. All rights reserved.
Based in South Africa