Trail running is having a red-hot moment, and no one knows that better than Australian endurance runner and coach Jodie Oborne. From her humble beginnings in the Perth hills to representing her country on the world stage, Jodie shares with Tiffany Watson how hitting the tracks can be the ultimate equaliser for runners of all abilities.
It’s just past seven in the morning, and whilst I’m still sipping my coffee, Queenslander Jodie Oborne is sitting across the screen from me, fresh faced after her morning swim. You wouldn’t know it from her approachable modest persona, but Jodie has stacked up quite the impressive resume of races and finishes over the last 14 years. Representing Australia in 18 UTMB World Ultra Series Events, with 11 top five finishes, and several wins, including first female at the Ultra Trail Des Cagous in 2015.
The experience she has gained over the years has led her to become an Australian Ultra and Trail Runners Association (AUTRA) Endorsed Coach and selector for the up-coming World Mountain Trail Running Championships in Canfranc, Spain this September. However, Jodie’s path to success has been far from straightforward, only completing her first half marathon in her 30s, the bulk of Jodie’s career has involved juggling her training schedule with her family life and medical appointments after being diagnosed with breast cancer in January 2016 – a battle she continues to live with today.
Her story highlights that despite many setbacks and life hurdles, trail running is a leveller, a constant that has kept her grounded and connected throughout.
She highlights that, “We’re all the same when we step onto the trail and even the fittest most talented runners walk the up hills, or take caution on the technical downhills.”
TRM: Tell us how you first got into trail running?
JO: I first started trail running with some friends in the Darlington hills, in Western Australia. I’d never run a half marathon before, but I quickly fell in love with the sport.
I started running most weekends with the ‘C’ Team in the Perth hills, a social group of trail runners that love being out on the trails.
Over the years, I’ve run some of the world’s most iconic trails, from the Bibbulmun Track in WA to competing in the 100km World Championships in Winschoten, in the Netherlands. I’ve also run many road marathons including the Boston and Gold Coast Marathon several times.
TRM: What do you love most about trail running?
JO: The beauty of trail running for me lies in the accessibility and inclusivity of the sport. It doesn’t matter your age or ability, when you step onto the trail, there’s no judgment. It’s a real leveller, a welcoming environment for everyone.
Trail running also allows you to immerse yourself in nature. Unlike the monotony of road running, trails take you into the heart of an area that can only be accessed by foot, and provides you with an experience that goes beyond physical exercise.
Trail running isn’t just about fitness; it’s about being present in nature, experiencing the sounds of the bush, black cockatoos screeching, or the rustling of a bobtail in the leaves, and taking in the view or following the trail of a big red kangaroo.
It’s a stress reliever. You can leave behind the hustle and bustle of everyday life and just connect with your surroundings. Or ‘Nature Bathing’ as I like to call it.
TRM: Why is trail running perfect for non-runners or beginners?
JO: Trails force you to slow down; elevation, rocky paths, and uneven surfaces mean you can’t run at the pace you’re used to on the road. This means for beginners, it’s perfect as it’s not about speed so the playing field is levelled.
Running on the trails also helps to build confidence as many beginners find they’re capable of running the downhills but might walk the uphills. By doing so, they often run further in total than they would have on the road, which is a real motivational boost.
Running at a more relaxed pace often means you talk and chat more too, so the whole experience is more social.
TRM: How can running on the trails improve your road running performance?
JO: Training on the trails is an excellent way to improve your performance on the road. Trails force you to slow down. Training slower and focusing on ‘time on feet’ rather than distance and time helps you mentally as well as physically.
We often think we need to push ourselves to achieve a certain speed, for a humble brag on Strava, but on trails, you have to slow down and go with the flow. Whether you’re running or hiking, you’re still making progress, and that’s what matters.
Getting Started With Trail Running
If you’re new to trail running or considering making the leap from road running to trails, Jodie has pulled together her five top tips for newbies looking to try the trails.
Immerse Yourself In Nature
Running in the bush or along mountain trails isn’t just about the workout; it’s about connecting with the environment. Let yourself be surrounded by nature and enjoy the peacefulness it offers. As Jodie says, “It’s amazing how the sound of your feet on the trail or the sounds of nature can be so calming.”
Get Into A Habit
Like any new sport, consistency is key. Set aside some time each week to get into the habit of running or hiking on trails. Start small and gradually increase the distance and difficulty as you build confidence.
Find A Group
Finding a group to run with is a fantastic way to get into the sport, We all remember what it’s like to be a newcomer, and joining a group can help you feel less intimidated. There’s always someone to offer advice or motivation. Below are details of some great groups you can try in every state.
Take A Friend
The beauty of trail running isn’t just in the solo experience, so take a friend with you for safety and so you have someone to chat and gossip with along the way. Whether it’s a weekly trail run or a casual meetup, it’s a great way to connect with friends while enjoying the great outdoors.
Take Water Or A Snack
Nothing can ruin your first trail experience more than running out of water or feeling low in energy. You burn more calories trail running, so ensure you remain fully hydrated and fuelled throughout your run.
Jodie says that trail running for her is more than just a sport.
“It’s a lifestyle,” she reiterates.
“It’s about embracing the peace of nature, coming together as a community of supportive runners, and learning to run at your own pace.”
We all have different goals, but what unites us is our love for nature and the trails. Whether you’re a beginner or an elite runner, there’s a place for you on the trail, all you have to do is step off the pavement and find a group near you.
Australian Trail Running Groups
You can find most of these groups on Facebook or by searching their group names:
- WA – Manning Park Runners, Manning Park, Hamilton Hill
- ACT – Trail Running Canberra on Facebook
- NSW – Berowra Bush Runners at berowrabushrunners.com
- VIC – Melbourne Trail Runners on Facebook
- QLD – Brisbane Trail Runners on Instagram
- NT – Red Centre Trail Runners on Facebook
- TAS – Hobart Trail Runners on Facebook
This guide appeared in Edition 55 of Trail Run Magazine 2025. Grab your copy here
