High Performance Altitude Retreat 2025/26

Training at altitude isn’t just for Olympians. Even recreational runners can gain some unique benefits by doing some training in a low-oxygen environment. When you spend time exercising where the air has less oxygen, your body makes special adaptations to improve your ability to produce oxygen.

Altitude training can increase your endurance capacity, helping you run longer or maintain a faster pace with less fatigue. Scientific studies have found that training at high altitude improves the body’s ability to take in and use oxygen during exercise (often measured as aerobic capacity) . In practice, this means after altitude training you can supply your muscles with more oxygen than before, allowing you to sustain effort for a longer time due to the production of EPO. Similar to the process of athletes doping with EPO, training at altitude gives you the benefit legally.

The other benefit is that in the harsh Australian summer we are able to run in a much more comfortable / cooler environment.

Dates:
A 6 night trip (30th-5th jan)

Total cost is:
- $4950 for the 6 night 7day trip all inclusive (except flights to and from canberra airport)

Inclusions:
- 4 star hotel room 2 x athletes per room. (Seperate room is an optional extra). Access to sauna and hotel facilities.
- Access to sports centre, fully equipped gym and pool.
- All meals i.e. breakfast, lunch, dinner (3 course) and takeaway lunches.
- Individual VO2 and lactate testing and biomechanical analysis.
- Individual strength testing and programing.
- Full injury management, rehab and support througout the camp.
- daily training sesions (running, cross training & strength), coaching, lactate testing and application of theory learnt into training sessions.
- Daily theory sessions in the board room.
- 1 on 1 Goal setting, strength plan, injury management plan and training advice.
- Transfers from canberra airport to the mountain return and to all sessions.
- Tour of the Australian institute of sport.
- The best scenery and trails in Australia.
- A fun inclusive environment and a great reset for the new year.

Please email us any questions you have or message us and we’ll line up a call or video call so we can go through any questions you have. This is a personalised retreat and so there will be alot of planning and data we’ll need prior.

The running camp will be in the Australian Skifields during Summer 2025/2026 runs will take place between amongst some of the most breathtaking scenery you will ever see. With runs up to mount koziosco being 1800m of elevation this is the highest area in Australia to train.

There will be runners coming from all over so the plan is to all fly in and rendevous at Canberra airport on Tuesday the 30th Dec 25 around 10am. Based on flight availability people will be getting in at slightly different times but we will aim to have everyone in the minivans that we will shuttle everyone from Canberra up the mountain and use as our transport during the duration of our stay.

For those that would like to drive they are more than welcome to meet us up the mountain at our accomodation.

3 hours drive from Canberra
6.5 hours drive from Sydney
6.5 hours drive from Melbourne

The training sessions are about implementing the science of running in a practical way within your training. The sessions will comprise of a mixture of trail, road and track sessions.

Everyone will be required to fill out a detailed questionaire on their running goals, running history, running injuries and typical training sessions and intensity and if you have a coach get their input as to what sessions they would be happy for you to do.

We will generally train 2 x a day but this will be a combination of running, strength, recovery and cross training. Athletes with a weekly volume of 150km will not exceed that and athletes with a weekly volume of 50km will not exceed that. There is always exceptions but we will be tailoring that to each individual.

The goal is not to break people on the camp it is to encompass all aspects of performance including recovery to equip people with the long term skills to reduce their risk of injury and improve performance.

The accomodation is modern twin and single rooms with single rooms being more expensive and limited on availability (get in quick to bags these). The twin rooms are spacious enough for 2 and if you don’t have a pre-arranged friend we will buddy you up with someone of the same sex to share a room with.

There are common areas to hang out in during the day and you’ll pretty much be in your rooms only for sleeping / napping.

The food (the most important part ) is catered for, substantial, delicious and plenty of variety. All dietry requirements can be met, we just need to know in advance.

Breakfast will be a buffet with fruit, yoghurt, bread, spreads, pastries and hot breakfast each morning.

Lunch will be either a take-away pack with ham/chicken/salad roll, muffin, fruit, water, juice and biscuits. Deluxe sandwich bar or option of hot meal curry & rice dish, burger and chips or pasta dish if we are in for lunch.

Dinner will be a sit down meal with endless options of:
- sirloin steak and veges
- chicken breast and veges
- fish and salad/ chips
- lasagne / ravioli / spaghetti
- roast beef / chicken / pork
all options come with salad, veges or chips options.

Desert:

- Fruit salad & ice cream
- Poached fruit custard
- Jelly & ice cream
- Chocolate mousse

Led by the team at the RunClinic :

Justin Hogg Director - Running has always been a big part of my life. I started with Little Athletics at age six and competed at a national level in middle-distance and cross-country events throughout school and university. I was fortunate to train with a talented group of junior athletes, attend altitude camps, and learn from some of the best allied health practitioners and coaches in the field. Witnessing what it takes to progress to World Juniors, the Commonwealth Games, and even the Olympics gave me a unique insight into high-performance sport.

This experience sparked my passion for health and led me to pursue a career within running. Once establishing the RunClinic it wasn’t long before we became one of the leading running specific clinics in Australia covering all aspects of running including injury management, footwear advice and management, performance testing and overall load management. We utilise specialised research grade treadmills, antigravity treadmills, VO2, lactate, RMR testing and the gym to test and measure every day.

I love helping runners of all abilities achieve their goals. Through working with runners and triathletes for 20 years now and being a runner for 30. I relish the opportunity to use data and research to improve performance and reduce risk of injury.

I’m fortunate that in my ‘job’ It has taken me all over the world, but the one thing I enjoy most besides my clinical work is immersing myself with runners up in the mountains who froth on every run!

I still enjoy running and going to the gym on a dialy basis, I now have 3 young kids

Darcy Dore Senior Clinician / Researcher - There’s nothing I love more than lacing up a new pair of running shoes and hitting a fresh route—it’s that feeling of freedom and rhythm that drives so much of what I do.

As a health practioner, my favourite part of the job is helping people return to the activities they love. Whether it’s overcoming an injury setback or helping crush running goals, I’m passionate about guiding clients toward better movement, performance, and long-term health.

Beyond the clinic, I co-host the Chapter Athletic podcast, where we explore running, fitness, and footwear culture with a science-forward but accessible lens.  I’m also conducting research at QUT on Advanced Footwear Technologies (AFT)—exploring how shoe structure, stiffness, and geometry affect biomechanics and energy return.

How I keep active: I have competed in a range of endurance events, from fast 5Ks (my favourite) to half ironmans, ultramarathons, and HYROX - and I fully embrace the running shoe habit that comes with it.

Qualifications and experience:

I am a Level 2 Athletics Australia recreational distance running coach and a Level 1 ASCA Strength and conditioning coach.

I originally graduated as a podiatrist from Charles Sturt University in 2015 and have worked in private practice throughout my career. I also completed a Graduate Diploma in Sports Medicine from the University of Melbourne to assist with the management of athletic clients.

Throughout my career I have worked alongside leading Podiatric Surgeons and Sports Physiotherapists, providing rehabilitation and load management to assist clients with returning to full function.

Throughout my time at RunClinic I have moved into also performance testing and worked with thousands of runners from beginner to Olympic level and enjoy them all the same.

The camp is designed to help people of all abilities, but you need to have a decent aerobic base under your belt and be running a minimum of of 30km/week in the leadup to the camp and can handle a 6km run comfortably.

The sessions/volume are modified to people’s specific goals and you will be linked up with people of similar ability.

We will also link up with other athletes for some sessions while we are up there so there will be plenty of variability in ability.

Weather & Temperature

• Daytime temperatures: 15°C to 25°C (cooler at higher elevations)

• Evenings/Nights: Can drop to below 5°C–10°C, especially in the alpine village where we are.

• Clear, sunny days are common, but weather can be variable and change rapidly. (We have had snow turn up one year)

• UV levels are high at altitude – sun protection is essential

Landscape & Environment

• Mainly Snow-free mountains (although we generally catch the last of it up at Kosciosko)

• Alpine meadows with wildflowers in bloom (December–January peak)

• Crisp, clean air with lower humidity than coastal regions

• Rivers, waterfalls, and mountain streams are active from snowmelt

• Some trails can be a bit muddy after rain but generally well-maintained

Wildlife & Nature

• Expect to see kangaroos, wombats, echidnas, and lots of alpine birds

You will be surrounded by a great crew of coaches and like-minded runners so whether you bring a friend or not there is no way you will ever be without friends at this camp.

There will be a mix of male and females attending and we’ll all be besties by the end of the trip.

If you are worried about coming on your own just give us a call and we’ll put your mind at ease.

Don’t panic! We are health professionals who manage injuries on a daily basis and you are in safe hands.

This camp has everything you need to recover from injury asap under the guidance of a team.

If injured on the trip we have the team to assess, diagnose, send for imaging, strap, immobilise whatever is needed. We will have a full kit of first aid equipment to manage pretty much everything and anything we dont have can source from down the mountain at jindabyne.

Plenty of cross training for athletes if needed and even have a GP on call if required.

If you are injured beforehand we would encourage you to still come to do your rehab 2 x day +- cross train so you can get back sooner but understand if that’s not possible.

If not possible refer to cancellation & refund policy

Running Gear

• Lightweight running tops & shorts (multiple sets)

• Thermal/base layers (for chilly mornings/nights)

• Running tights or leggings

• Waterproof running jacket (for mountain weather)

• Windproof outer shell

• Running cap/visor & beanie (for sun & cold)

• Running gloves

• Sunglasses (high UV protection)

• Multiple pairs of running socks (moisture-wicking)

• Training shoes (daily mileage)

• Racing flats or carbon shoes (if doing speedwork)

• Trail running shoes (if camp includes trails)

• Recovery slides/sandals

🏔️ Altitude & Environment Essentials

• Reusable water bottle/hydration pack

• Electrolyte tablets or powder

• High-SPF sunscreen & lip balm

• Energy gels, bars, or snacks (these can be bought up there)

• Backpack or hydration vest for long runs

• Lightweight travel towel

💪 Recovery & Health

• Foam roller or massage ball

• Resistance bands (for prehab/activation exercises)

• Compression socks/tights (for recovery)

• Anti-chafing balm (skin gets dry at altitude)

• Personal medications

• Basic first aid kit (blisters, muscle aches)

🛏️ Comfort & Living Essentials

• Warm casual clothes (altitude = colder evenings)

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Sleep aids (ear plugs, eye mask)

• Books or entertainment for downtime

• Notebook/training log or training app

📝 Other Important Items

• ID & health insurance details

• Chargers (phone, watch)

• Portable power bank

• HRV monitor or wearable tracking device

Absolutley, we are more than happy to have coaches and their athletes join us.

Our aim is to empower and educate runners, coaches and health professionals to get the most out of themselves and their athletes. (It is fully tax deductible)

Aside from running sessions there will be daily education talks, gym sessions & lessons, pool recovery sessions, some amazing hikes, visits to the early settlers bushmans huts, swim in a pristine river, run to the top of kosciosco, trips to jindabyne, visits to other ski areas, board games, movies, time to read and chill.

We sure can subject to availability of spaces. As it’s a specialised camp we have high fixed costs but bringing a friend or friends will help offset that.

Please send us a message and we’ll tell you what we can do based on numbers.

Yes, the internet is good and reliable at the accommodation although we encourage people to enjoy being a professional athlete as much as they can while they are there!

We want you going back to life refreshed and motivated!

Although this retreat is aimed at specifically helping people’s running performance, It is applicable to all athletes where running is involved. For any athletes from a multisport background (triathlon, hyrox etc) you are definitely welcome, there will be plenty of time for cross training.

Please speak to us about what your requirements are and we can plan your other training around the sessions we do.

Cancellation & Refund Policy — RunClinic Altitude Running Retreat

At RunClinic, we understand that life happens and plans can change. We are committed to handling cancellations and refunds fairly, in accordance with the Australian Consumer Law (ACL).

Change of Mind

Under Australian Consumer Law, businesses are not required to provide a refund if you simply change your mind or decide you no longer wish to attend. However, we offer the following goodwill cancellation terms:

• Cancellations more than 60 days prior to the retreat start date: Full refund, less costs/materials associated with any VO2 testing, lactate testing, Gait analysisi testing, Strength testing, analysing data and a $150 administration fee.

• Cancellations between 30-59 days prior to the retreat start date: 50% refund of the total retreat cost.

• Cancellations less than 30 days prior to the retreat start date: No refund, unless the spot can be transferred or resold to another person. If re-sold, we will refund the amount paid, less a $150 administration fee.

Transfer of Booking

You may transfer your booking to another person up to 14 days prior to the retreat start date. You must notify us in writing with the full details of the person attending in your place.

Illness, Injury, or Unforeseen Circumstances

If you are unable to attend due to illness, injury, or unforeseen circumstances, the same rules apply above. If successful, a refund will be provided (less the $150 admin fee). We strongly recommend travel insurance that covers cancellations for medical or personal reasons.

Event Cancellation or Major Change by Us

If RunClinic needs to cancel the retreat due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., natural disaster, cancellations, COVID restrictions), you will be offered a full refund or the option to transfer your booking to a rescheduled date.

If a major change is made to the retreat (e.g., venue or date change) that significantly impacts your ability to attend, you are entitled to a full refund under ACL.

Minor Changes

Minor changes to the retreat itinerary or schedule do not qualify for a refund under ACL.Item description

Payment Terms — RunClinic Altitude Running Retreat

Deposit & Booking Confirmation

• A non-refundable deposit of $500 is required at the time of booking to secure your place.

• Your booking is not confirmed until the deposit has been received.

• This deposit will be deducted from your total retreat cost.

Final Payment

• The balance of payment is due no later than 60 days prior to the retreat start date.

• If full payment is not received by this date, RunClinic reserves the right to cancel your booking and offer the spot to another participant. In this case, your deposit will be forfeited.

Payment Plans

• Payment plans are available upon request. However, the total retreat cost must be paid in full no later than 60 days before the retreat commences.

• Failure to meet payment plan instalments may result in cancellation of your booking and forfeiture of amounts paid to date.

Cancellations & Refunds

• Cancellations are subject to our Cancellation & Refund Policy:

  • Cancellations more than 60 days prior: Full refund, less $150 admin fee.

  • Cancellations between 30–59 days prior: 50% refund of total retreat cost.

  • Cancellations less than 30 days prior: No refund, unless the spot is filled from our waitlist (admin fee applies).

• The $500 deposit is non-refundable in all cases but may be transferable if the booking is passed to another participant (see Cancellation Policy).

Transfers of Booking

• You may transfer your booking to another person up to 14 days prior to the retreat start date.

• You must notify RunClinic in writing and ensure the new participant meets all health and participation requirements.

Late Bookings

• For bookings made within 60 days of the retreat start date, full payment is required at the time of booking.

• These bookings are non-refundable unless covered by ACL guarantees or if a replacement participant is found.

Event Cancellation by RunClinic

• If RunClinic cancels the retreat, all monies paid will be refunded in full, or you may opt to transfer to a rescheduled date.

• Refunds are processed within 14 business days of cancellation notice.

Travel Insurance

• Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended, covering cancellations, personal injury, and unforeseen circumstances.