Sports & Fitness

Australia’s diverse landscapes offer some of the most scenic and challenging running trails in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner, an adventure runner, or just looking for a weekend trail to explore, 2025 has seen even more investment in trail development, safety infrastructure, and community running events across the country.

From rugged coastal paths that hug the Southern Ocean to high-altitude mountain routes through alpine terrain, Australia’s running trails cater to all levels and interests. Here are some of the best running trails in Australia , featuring updates and highlights from this year’s trail season.

1. Great Ocean Walk (Victoria) – Coastal Beauty at Its Finest

Stretching over 104 kilometers from Apollo Bay to the iconic Twelve Apostles , the Great Ocean Walk is one of Australia’s premier long-distance trails — and a favorite among trail runners.

In 2025, improvements to signage and emergency beacons have made it safer and more accessible than ever. While the full walk takes up to eight days, many runners tackle sections like:

• Apollo Bay to Blanket Bay (18 km) – A perfect day run with lush rainforest and ocean views.
• The Gables to Twelve Apostles (12 km) – A dramatic cliffside stretch with panoramic coastal vistas.

Local trail running groups now organize guided half-marathons along parts of the route, especially during spring when wildflowers bloom and weather conditions are ideal.

2. Blue Mountains Trail Network (New South Wales) – Rugged Inland Adventures

The Blue Mountains , a UNESCO World Heritage Area, offers a vast network of trails suitable for both beginners and elite trail runners. The area saw increased popularity in 2025 due to its proximity to Sydney and improved public transport access.

Top runs include:

• The Prince Henry Cliff Walk (8 km) – A mostly flat, paved trail offering breathtaking views of the Three Sisters and Jamison Valley.
• Mount Solitary Summit (16 km return) – For experienced runners seeking elevation gain and rewarding panoramic views from the highest point in the region.
• Six Foot Track (45 km) – Originally a horse track, this multi-day trail is a highlight on the Australian ultra-running calendar. In March 2025, the annual Six Foot Track Marathon drew record participation, with over 3,000 entrants.

Trail upgrades funded by the NSW government have enhanced safety and reduced erosion, making these trails more sustainable for years to come.

3. Cape to Cape Track (Western Australia) – Southwest Serenity

Located in WA’s stunning Margaret River region , the Cape to Cape Track is a 135-kilometer trail stretching from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin , offering a mix of coastal cliffs, vineyards, and native bushland.

While many hike the entire trail over several days, trail runners love tackling individual segments such as:

• Yallingup Cliffs to Gracetown (10 km) – Fast-paced singletrack with ocean views and beach finishes.
• Contos Beach to Redgate (9 km) – Rolling hills and forested sections make this a favorite for tempo runs.

The Cape to Cape Ultra Run Festival , held every September, has grown into a major event, drawing international athletes and offering distances from 10km to 100km+.

4. Mount Coot-tha Loop (Queensland) – Urban Escape in Brisbane

For city-based runners, Mount Coot-tha in Brisbane provides a convenient yet challenging trail right in the heart of Queensland’s capital.

The Mount Coot-tha Summit Loop (5.8 km) is a popular route, combining steep climbs with rewarding views of the city skyline. In 2025, the City Council introduced new hydration stations and shaded rest points, encouraging more locals to take up trail running.

Community-run “Dawn Runs” have also gained traction — early morning group runs that finish with post-run coffee and breakfast at nearby cafes, blending fitness with social connection.

5. Cradle Mountain Circuit (Tasmania) – Alpine Wonder

Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is home to the famous Overland Track , but for runners, the Cradle Mountain Circuit (12 km loop) offers a compact yet intense trail experience.

With elevation gains, rocky terrain, and stunning alpine scenery, this trail is best suited for intermediate to advanced runners. In 2025, Parks Tasmania launched a trail running map app that includes GPS tracking, difficulty ratings, and real-time weather alerts — making it easier for visitors to plan safe and enjoyable runs.

The annual Taste of Cradle trail race , held in January, attracted over 1,500 participants this year, highlighting the growing appeal of Tassie’s rugged beauty.

6. Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk/Run (Sydney, NSW) – Iconic Urban Trail

Though not technically a “trail,” the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Path remains one of the most popular running routes in Australia. This 6-kilometer stretch follows the coastline with sweeping ocean views, surf beaches, and well-maintained pathways.

In 2025, the route was officially included in City of Sydney’s Active Transport Strategy , which means better lighting, smoother surfaces, and more frequent patrols for safety — particularly important for early morning or late evening runners.

It’s a favorite for tourists and locals alike, and many use it for training before taking on longer coastal challenges.

7. Heysen Trail (South Australia) – Long-Distance Legend

At 1,200 kilometers , the Heysen Trail is Australia’s longest marked walking trail — but runners love sectioning off parts of it for weekend adventures.

Popular segments include:

• Morialta Falls to Kersbrook (18 km) – A mix of creek crossings, rock scrambles, and eucalyptus forests.
• Mount Lofty Summit Loop (8 km) – Offers a quick but steep climb with sweeping views of Adelaide.

The Heysen Trail Enduro Challenge , a multi-stage trail running event covering select portions of the trail, returned in April 2025 after a three-year hiatus — drawing over 1,000 competitors.

8. Lamington National Park (Queensland) – Rainforest Running

Nestled in the Gold Coast Hinterland, Lamington National Park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area .

Trails like the Green Mountains Circuit (12 km) and Box Forest Ridge Track (9 km) offer immersive experiences through subtropical rainforest, waterfalls, and wildlife-rich environments.

The park welcomed its first Lamington Trail Series in June 2025 — a series of races ranging from 10km to 50km, attracting trail enthusiasts from around the country.

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In 2025, Australian workplaces are undergoing a wellness revolution. As stress levels rise and burnout becomes an increasingly recognized issue, companies across the country — from Sydney’s financial district to Melbourne’s startup hubs and Brisbane’s corporate offices — are turning to yoga and mindfulness programs as essential tools for employee well-being.

These initiatives are no longer just occasional “wellness weeks” or optional lunchtime classes. They’re becoming core components of corporate wellness strategies , backed by science, supported by leadership, and integrated into daily work culture.

The Rise of Mental Health Awareness in the Workplace

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) , over 40% of Australians aged 16–85 experience high or very high levels of psychological distress at some point in their lives. In the workplace, stress-related absenteeism costs Australian businesses an estimated $10 billion annually , making mental health a critical economic and human concern.

In response, many companies have adopted proactive approaches to employee well-being, with yoga and mindfulness emerging as two of the most effective and accessible interventions.

Why Yoga and Mindfulness Are Gaining Popularity

Yoga and mindfulness offer practical, low-cost solutions that can be tailored to fit different workplace environments. Their benefits are well-documented:

• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Improves focus and productivity
• Enhances emotional resilience
• Supports physical health and posture
• Encourages teamwork and communication

Unlike traditional wellness perks like gym memberships — which often go unused — yoga and mindfulness programs are typically offered during work hours, increasing participation and engagement.

Corporate Adoption Across Industries

Major corporations, government departments, and SMEs alike are implementing structured wellness programs in 2025:

1. Financial Sector – Big Banks Go Zen

In Sydney, institutions like Commonwealth Bank , Westpac , and ANZ have introduced weekly in-office yoga sessions , guided meditation breaks , and digital mindfulness apps such as Headspace and Smiling Mind for employees.

CBA launched its “Mindful Mondays” initiative , offering live-streamed yoga classes and short breathing exercises before meetings — a move that has led to a 15% increase in reported job satisfaction .

2. Tech Companies – Meditation Rooms and Flex Time

Tech startups in Melbourne and Canberra are leading the way in innovative wellness offerings. Offices now feature dedicated meditation pods , silent zones , and mindfulness-based leadership training .

Companies like Atlassian and Canva include mental health days in their leave policies and encourage employees to take midday yoga or guided relaxation sessions.

3. Government Agencies – Public Sector Prioritizes Wellbeing

Federal and state governments have also embraced these practices. The Australian Public Service Commission launched the “Healthy Minds, Healthy Workplaces” campaign, offering free online mindfulness courses and yoga workshops to public servants.

Victoria’s Department of Transport now offers “Breathing Space” rooms in major office buildings — quiet, technology-free zones where staff can practice mindfulness techniques or do short stretching routines.

4. SMEs – Small Businesses Get Smart

Even smaller firms are recognizing the value of wellness programs. Platforms like Wellness Works Australia and MindShare provide affordable access to certified instructors and pre-designed wellness calendars for small teams.

Businesses in Adelaide and Perth report improved staff retention and higher morale after introducing weekly group yoga sessions and monthly mindfulness workshops.

How These Programs Are Structured

While every company adapts wellness programs differently, common elements include:

1. On-Site Yoga Classes

Many organizations partner with local studios or hire freelance instructors to run 30-minute yoga sessions during lunch breaks or early mornings. Hatha, Vinyasa, and Chair Yoga are popular choices, especially for desk-bound workers.

2. Digital Tools and Apps

Digital platforms play a key role in scaling wellness programs. Subscriptions to apps like Headspace for Work , Insight Timer , and Calm Business allow employees to access guided meditations, sleep support, and stress management tools on-demand.

3. Mindfulness Training and Workshops

Some companies invest in structured mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) programs , often delivered in partnership with psychologists or certified trainers. Topics may include:

• Emotional regulation
• Mindful communication
• Resilience building
• Time management

4. Leadership Integration

Senior leaders are being trained in mindful leadership techniques , helping them model healthy behaviors and foster supportive team cultures. This approach is particularly evident in law firms, consulting agencies, and creative industries.

Measurable Benefits and ROI

Employers who invest in yoga and mindfulness programs are seeing real results:

• Increased productivity : A 2025 study by Deakin University found that employees who participated in regular mindfulness practices showed 12% improvement in concentration and decision-making .
• Reduced absenteeism : Companies offering wellness programs report up to 20% fewer sick days compared to those without.
• Higher employee engagement : According to a survey by Deloitte, 78% of employees feel more connected to employers who prioritize mental health and wellness .
• Lower turnover rates : Staff in organizations with strong wellness cultures are more likely to stay — a crucial factor in retaining top talent amid competitive labor markets.

Government Support and Industry Recognition

The Australian government has recognized the importance of mental health in the workplace. Through initiatives like the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan , businesses are encouraged to adopt comprehensive wellness strategies — including yoga and mindfulness.

Industry groups like Beyond Blue and WorkSafe Australia have published best practice guidelines, urging employers to integrate mental health resources into daily operations.

Additionally, awards like the Australian Business & Community Network (ABCN) Wellness at Work Awards highlight companies that lead in this space, further encouraging adoption across sectors.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite growing interest, challenges remain in ensuring that wellness programs are inclusive, accessible, and sustainable:

• Time constraints : Employees may struggle to attend sessions due to tight schedules.
• Cultural resistance : Some workers may perceive mindfulness as “too alternative” or unnecessary.
• Accessibility issues : Not all employees can participate in physical yoga due to mobility, location, or remote work status.

To address these concerns, many companies are adopting hybrid models , combining in-person sessions with on-demand video content , mobile app integration , and peer-led wellness circles .

Case Study: Medibank’s Mindful Transformation

One standout example is Medibank , which rolled out a comprehensive wellness program in 2024. The initiative included:

• Weekly in-office yoga
• Daily guided breathing exercises via app
• Monthly guest speaker events on mental resilience
• Manager training in mindful leadership

Within six months, Medibank reported a 25% drop in stress-related absences and a 90% satisfaction rate among participants — proving that even large-scale organizations can make a meaningful impact.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Wellness at Work

As we move deeper into 2025, it’s clear that yoga and mindfulness are not passing trends — they are becoming cornerstones of modern corporate culture in Australia.

Future developments may include:

• AI-driven personalized wellness plans
• VR-guided mindfulness experiences
• Integration with wearable health tech for real-time stress monitoring
• Expansion into hybrid and remote teams through virtual reality and mobile platforms

With rising awareness, increasing investment, and strong evidence of effectiveness, one thing is certain: wellness at work is here to stay .

For Australian businesses, investing in yoga and mindfulness isn’t just about improving employee health — it’s about building a resilient, engaged, and future-ready workforce.

And for employees, it’s about finding balance, purpose, and peace — even in the busiest of workdays.

The Australian Football League (AFL) has long been celebrated for its fast-paced, high-impact style of play — but with that intensity comes a significant risk of injury. In recent years, player welfare has become a central focus for clubs, the AFL Commission, and medical professionals. As the 2025 season unfolds, new prevention strategies and recovery innovations are playing a crucial role in keeping players on the field and reducing long-term health risks.

The Injury Landscape in the AFL

According to the latest AFL Injury Surveillance Report (2024–2025) , the average team experiences over 30 injuries per season , with muscle strains (especially hamstrings), knee ligament damage (particularly ACL tears), and concussions being the most common.

Hamstring injuries alone account for nearly 25% of all missed games , costing teams millions in lost performance and rehabilitation expenses. Meanwhile, the rate of ACL injuries has increased by 18% since 2020 , prompting urgent action across the league.

The rise in injuries is partly attributed to:

• Increased game speed and physicality
• Shorter turnaround times between matches
• Greater load management challenges due to expanded fixtures

This evolving landscape has driven clubs and the AFL to invest heavily in both preventative science and advanced recovery protocols .

Prevention: Data-Driven Training and Load Management

One of the most significant shifts in the AFL is the adoption of data-driven injury prevention programs . Teams now rely heavily on wearable technology, GPS tracking, and biometric analytics to monitor player fatigue, workload, and biomechanics in real time.

1. GPS Wearables and Player Monitoring Systems

Clubs like the Sydney Swans , Richmond Tigers , and Geelong Cats use advanced GPS vests from companies like Catapult Sports to track metrics such as:

• Acceleration and deceleration patterns
• Distance covered at high intensity
• Muscle fatigue indicators
• Jump and landing mechanics

These insights help coaches tailor training loads and identify early warning signs of potential injury.

2. Individualized Load Management Plans

With data in hand, sports scientists and physiotherapists create personalized load management plans for each player. These plans adjust training intensity based on factors like:

• Match frequency
• Travel schedules
• Previous injury history
• Sleep and nutrition data

The West Coast Eagles have been pioneers in this area, using AI-powered platforms to predict injury risk up to 72 hours in advance with over 80% accuracy .

3. Strength and Conditioning Evolution

Prehabilitation — or prehab — has become a cornerstone of AFL fitness programs. Clubs now incorporate more eccentric hamstring exercises , neuromuscular training , and hip mobility drills into weekly routines to reduce soft-tissue injuries.

The Carlton Blues , for example, introduced a “Movement Efficiency Program” focused on improving landing techniques and reducing knee valgus during tackles — a key contributor to ACL injuries.

Concussion Protocols: A Safer Game

Head injuries remain a major concern in contact sports, and the AFL continues to refine its concussion protocols to protect player safety.

In 2025, the league rolled out:

• Real-time sideline assessments using portable neurocognitive testing devices
• Mandated rest periods of at least 12 days post-concussion
• Independent concussion spotters watching live footage to recommend stoppages when head impacts occur

Clubs like Port Adelaide and Brisbane Lions have also introduced baseline cognitive testing using virtual reality (VR) simulations to better assess brain function after suspected concussions.

Player advocacy groups, including the AFL Players’ Association , have praised these efforts, noting a 12% drop in repeat concussions compared to the previous season.

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In 2025, a noticeable shift is taking place in the way Australians approach fitness — especially in major urban centers like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. The traditional gym model is being challenged by a growing trend: outdoor fitness culture . More Australians are choosing to break a sweat under the open sky, trading treadmills for trails, dumbbells for bodyweight exercises, and air-conditioned gyms for fresh-air workouts.

This movement isn’t just about physical health — it’s also driven by mental well-being, community connection, and a desire for more flexible, accessible, and eco-friendly ways to stay fit.

The Shift from Indoor Gyms to Open Spaces

For years, indoor gyms dominated the fitness landscape in Australia. However, rising membership costs, crowded spaces, and rigid schedules have led many urbanites to seek alternatives. In response, outdoor fitness has exploded in popularity, particularly among millennials and Gen Z.

According to a 2025 survey conducted by Roy Morgan Research, over 40% of Australians now engage in regular outdoor exercise , with the highest participation rates found in cities like Melbourne (47%) and Sydney (45%).

Key reasons cited include:

• Lower cost : No gym fees or equipment needed.
• Better mental health benefits : Exposure to nature reduces stress and improves mood.
• Flexibility : Workouts can be done anytime without waiting for equipment or dealing with peak-hour crowds.
• Social motivation : Group outdoor fitness classes foster a sense of community and accountability.

Popular Outdoor Fitness Activities in 2025

Several outdoor workout formats have gained traction across Australian cities:

1. Park-Based HIIT and Functional Training

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) and functional workouts using bodyweight and resistance bands are now common in parks such as Sydney’s Hyde Park, Melbourne’s Fitzroy Gardens, and Brisbane’s South Bank. Many local councils have installed free outdoor fitness stations equipped with pull-up bars, parallel bars, and resistance platforms.

Organizations like ParkFit Australia and Bootcamp Nation offer guided group sessions that cater to all fitness levels, helping participants achieve strength, endurance, and flexibility goals outdoors.

2. Trail Running and Bushwalking

Urban dwellers are increasingly heading to nearby national parks and coastal trails for running and walking. Apps like AllTrails and Strava report record usage among Australians, with popular spots like the Blue Mountains near Sydney and the Dandenong Ranges near Melbourne seeing a 30% increase in visitors compared to 2023.

Trail running clubs have also grown in number, offering weekly meetups and races ranging from 5Ks to ultra-marathons.

3. Yoga and Mindfulness in Nature

Outdoor yoga continues to thrive, especially in beachside locations like Bondi, Byron Bay, and Manly. Classes are often held at sunrise or sunset, combining physical activity with meditation and breathwork.

Wellness studios like The Practice in Melbourne and Flow Athletic in Sydney have expanded their offerings to include weekly outdoor sessions, drawing large followings from professionals looking to disconnect from work stress.

4. Cycling and Commuter Fitness

With improved bike infrastructure and government incentives, cycling has become both a commuting solution and a form of daily exercise. In 2025, cities like Canberra and Adelaide have seen significant growth in bike-to-work participation, supported by new bike lanes and e-bike subsidies.

Group cycling events like City2Surf Ride and Great Victorian Bike Ride continue to attract thousands of participants annually.

Community and Social Impact

One of the most powerful aspects of the outdoor fitness movement is its ability to build inclusive, welcoming communities . Unlike some gym environments that can feel intimidating or exclusive, outdoor fitness groups emphasize accessibility and camaraderie.

Cities have embraced this shift by supporting:

• Free community fitness days
• Public wellness workshops
• Fitness ambassador programs in local councils

These initiatives help people of all ages and backgrounds engage in physical activity together, fostering social cohesion and reducing isolation — especially important post-pandemic.

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The Paris 2024 Olympic Games marked a historic milestone for Australian sport, with Team Australia delivering one of its strongest performances on the global stage. After the disruptions of the Tokyo Games and amid rising international competition, Australia finished in 7th place on the medal table , securing a total of 53 medals — 19 gold, 18 silver, and 16 bronze .

From seasoned champions to emerging stars, the Australian team showcased resilience, talent, and determination across a wide range of sports. Here’s a look at the standout athletes, memorable moments, and how expectations matched reality at the Paris Olympics.

Swimming Dominance Continues

As always, swimming was Australia’s most successful discipline, contributing over 30% of the nation’s total medals . The Australian Dolphins continued their legacy as one of the world’s top aquatic teams.

• Ariarne Titmus (Women’s 200m and 400m Freestyle) – Titmus lived up to her “Terminator” nickname by defending her 400m freestyle title and adding gold in the 200m. She also anchored the 4x200m freestyle relay team to victory.
• Kaylee McKeown (Women’s 100m and 200m Backstroke) – McKeown became a double Olympic champion once again, breaking the world record in the 200m backstroke and helping Australia win silver in the 4x100m medley relay.
• Mollie O’Callaghan (Women’s 100m Freestyle and 200m Freestyle Silver) – A breakout star of the Games, O’Callaghan narrowly missed gold in the 100m but showed incredible promise for future cycles.
• Ian Hanson (Men’s 200m Breaststroke Bronze) – Represented a new generation of male swimmers stepping into the spotlight.

Despite strong challenges from the United States and China, Australia maintained its reputation as a swimming powerhouse.

Cycling Shines on the Track and Road

Australian cyclists had a remarkable Games, particularly on the velodrome and time trial circuits.

• Stephanie Morton (Women’s Sprint Gold) – Morton won Australia’s first-ever women’s sprint gold, a long-awaited breakthrough after years of near-misses.
• Matthew Glaetzer (Men’s Omnium Silver) – His consistency across all events earned him a well-deserved podium finish.
• Sarah Gigante (Women’s Road Race Bronze) – In only her second major international event, Gigante impressed with her endurance and tactical racing, giving Australia hope for the future of women’s road cycling.

The cycling program in Paris helped Australia secure several unexpected medals, reinforcing its status as a multi-sport powerhouse.

Rowing and Kayaking Deliver Big Moments

Water-based sports beyond swimming also contributed significantly:

• Jessica Morrison, Annabelle McIntosh, Rosemary Popa, and Olympia Aldersey (Women’s Coxed Four Gold) – This crew delivered an emotional gold, continuing Australia’s proud tradition in women’s rowing.
• Lani Pallister (Women’s 800m Freestyle Bronze) – Following in the footsteps of her mother, Kieren Perkins’ former teammate, Pallister made her mark with a stunning swim in the final.
• Jean van der Westhuyzen and Thomas Birtwhistle (PR3 Mixed Double Sculls Silver) – Their synchronized performance brought home a hard-fought silver medal.

Canoe sprinters like Noemie Fox (daughter of Olympic kayaker Myriam Jerusalmi) also performed strongly, winning bronze in the women’s kayak single 500m.

Athletics and Gymnastics: Emerging Talent

While not as dominant as in previous games, athletics still provided key highlights:

• Diana Taurasi (Marathon Silver) – At 42, Taurasi defied age expectations and led the marathon field for much of the race before finishing second.
• Tobia Bocchi (Men’s Shot Put Silver) – His personal best throw earned Australia a rare athletics medal and signaled the arrival of a new force in throwing events.

In gymnastics, Georgia Godwin narrowly missed out on an individual medal but played a crucial role in the women’s team finishing fourth — Australia’s best result since 2004.

Team Sports: Mixed Results

Australia’s traditionally strong team sports had varied success in Paris:

• Women’s Hockey (Hockeyroos) – Finished 4th after a heartbreaking semi-final loss to the Netherlands.
• Men’s Basketball (Boomers) – Failed to medal despite high expectations, finishing 6th.
• Women’s Rugby Sevens – Secured a bronze medal , continuing their dominance since the sport’s inclusion in 2016.
• Beach Volleyball – Taliqua Clancy and Mariafe Artacho del Solar reached the semifinals, falling just short of the podium but earning praise for their resilience.

Despite some disappointments, the team sports showcased depth and passion that will fuel future campaigns.

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