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Running is a popular sport, and for many runners, knowing their mileage is important. Whether it's for fitness, training for a race, or weight loss, tracking distance can help runners set and achieve their goals. In Australia, the distance between the east and west is approximately 4,000 km (2,500 mi) and 3,860 km (2,400 mi) from north to south. Several notable runners have taken on the challenge of running across Australia, including Tony Rafferty, who became the first man to run from Melbourne to Sydney in 1972, and Ron Grant, who ran 13,383 km (8,316 mi) around Australia in 1983. To track their runs, many runners use wearable fitness trackers with GPS, such as the Nike Apple Watch, or apps like Nike Run Club, On The Go Map, and Mapometer. These tools allow runners to map their routes, track their distance, and monitor their progress over time.
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What You'll Learn
Tracking your run with GPS
Wearable GPS Trackers
Wearable devices, such as GPS watches or fitness bands, offer a convenient way to track your runs. These devices use GPS to record your route, distance, pace, and other metrics. Many also integrate with fitness apps, allowing you to set goals, monitor your progress, and even get coaching tips. For example, the Nike Apple Watch combines the features of an Apple Watch with access to the Nike Run Club App, enabling you to track workouts and listen to Audio-Guided Runs.
Smartphone Apps
Smartphone apps, such as On The Go Map, Nike Run Club App, and Mapometer, can turn your phone into a powerful running companion. These apps often allow you to map and plan routes, calculate distances, and track your progress over time. Some apps also offer additional features like audio coaching, elevation profiles, and community features.
Route Mapping Tools
Online route mapping tools, such as Google Maps, can be used to plan and measure your running routes. By mapping out your route in advance, you can calculate distances, avoid challenging terrain, and ensure you're running the desired mileage. These tools can help you create a customised workout plan that suits your needs and fitness goals.
Basic Calculations
If you prefer a more straightforward approach, you can calculate the distance of your run using basic maths. You'll need to know the total time you ran and your average pace. To determine your pace accurately, it's best to run a known distance on a flat, level surface to establish a baseline. This method may not be as precise as GPS technology, but it can give you a general idea of your distance and speed.
By utilising these GPS tracking methods, you can effectively monitor your running progress, set realistic goals, and make informed decisions about your training regimen. Remember to choose the option that best suits your needs and preferences, as the data and insights provided can greatly enhance your running experience and help you stay motivated.
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Planning your route
Know Your Starting Point and Direction
Decide on your starting point, which could be a city or a geographical extreme. For example, you could start from one of the geographical extremes: Steep Point (west), Cape Byron (east), Cape York Peninsula (north), or South East Cape (south). Alternatively, you can choose a capital city like Perth (west) or Brisbane (east). Knowing your starting point will help you plan your route more effectively.
Choose Your Direction and Route
Consider whether you want to run from west to east, north to south, or follow a different path. You can also decide if you want to run in a loop, returning to your starting point, or finish at a different location. Planning your direction and route will help you estimate the total distance and plan for any specific milestones or landmarks you want to include.
Utilize Online Tools and Apps
Take advantage of online tools and apps specifically designed for route planning, such as On The Go Map, which allows you to create and share routes, calculate distances, and view elevation profiles. You can also use Mapometer.com, which is a sports route planner that enables you to map your runs, calculate distances and elevation changes, and track your progress. These tools can help you design a route that suits your fitness level and goals.
Map Out Your Route in Advance
Use mapping tools like Google Maps to plan your route ahead of time. This helps you estimate the distance more accurately and allows you to choose the terrain, elevation, and roads or paths you prefer. By mapping your route, you can also avoid areas with heavy traffic or challenging terrain that might hinder your run.
Consider a Trial Run
Before committing to a route, consider doing a trial run to better understand your pace and endurance. This will help you refine your route planning and ensure that you don't overexert yourself. A trial run can also help you establish a baseline pace, especially if you run on a flat, level surface, which can be beneficial when planning future routes.
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Running across Australia
The westernmost geographical extreme is Steep Point, and the easternmost is Cape Byron. The northernmost geographical extreme is the Cape York Peninsula, and the southernmost is the South East Cape. Alternatively, runners can choose capital cities as their starting and ending points, with Perth being the westernmost and Brisbane the easternmost. Darwin is the northernmost city, and Hobart is the southernmost.
The first man to run from Melbourne to Sydney was Tony Rafferty in 1972, pioneering ultra-distance running in Australia. He also achieved many other firsts, including running from Perth to Adelaide, Adelaide to Brisbane, Melbourne to Brisbane, and Sydney to Brisbane. In 1978, he became the first person to run from Melbourne to Sydney and back. In 1973, he became the first person to run across the Nullarbor Plain, completing the journey from Fremantle to the Gold Coast in 74 days.
Other notable runners include Ron Grant, who in 1983 ran 13,383 km (8,316 mi) around Australia in 217 days; Pat Farmer, who established the fastest around-Australia long-run record of 14,662.4 km (9,111 mi) in 191 days and 10 minutes; and Sarah Fulcher, a 24-year-old woman from North Carolina, USA, who in 1986 became the first woman to run across Australia, covering 2,727 miles (4,389 km) from Bondi Beach, NSW, to Perth, Western Australia.
Some individuals have also shared their personal experiences of running across Australia, such as James Brooman, who ran non-stop for almost five hours and encountered challenging weather conditions during his journey.
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World records
Running long distances is a challenging task, and several runners have attempted to cross Australia by foot. Here is a list of world records set by runners who have pushed their limits and achieved remarkable feats:
William Goodge:
In 2025, British ultra-endurance athlete William Goodge broke the world record for running across the width of Australia. The 31-year-old completed the 3,800-kilometre (2,361-mile) journey in just 35 days, starting from Cottesloe Beach in Perth and finishing at Bondi Beach in Sydney. Goodge averaged an impressive 100 kilometres per day, equivalent to running two and a half marathons daily. His incredible achievement also served as a fundraiser for cancer charities in memory of his mother, who passed away from cancer in 2018.
Chris Turnbull:
In 2023, Australian runner Chris Turnbull, nicknamed "The Bull," set a new world record for the fastest run from Perth to Sydney. Turnbull covered a distance of 3,856 kilometres in 39 days, averaging between 100 and 105 kilometres daily. He endured challenging conditions, including sharing the road with huge trucks, blisters, aching muscles, and sleep deprivation.
Nedd Brockmann:
In 2022, Australian electrician Nedd Brockmann ran from Perth to Sydney in 47 days, raising millions for charity. While his record was broken by Turnbull the following year, Brockmann's achievement remains an impressive display of endurance and dedication.
Achim Heukemes:
In 2005, German ultramarathon runner Achim Heukemes set a world record for his 4,568-kilometre run through Australia. He started from Fremantle and finished in Sydney in just 43 days, 13 hours, and 8 minutes. Heukemes beat the previous world record set by Serge Girard in 1999.
Pat Farmer:
Pat Farmer established the record for the fastest around-Australia long run. He completed a continuous run of 14,662.4 kilometres in just 191 days and 10 minutes (approximately six months). Farmer also set a new world record for running 10,000 kilometres in 129 days and broke an Australian record of more than 13,383 kilometres in 174 days.
These individuals have pushed their physical and mental limits, setting world records and inspiring others with their incredible achievements.
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Running for health
Running is a popular form of exercise that can be done almost anywhere and at any time. It is also a cost-effective activity that does not require much equipment. Running has numerous health benefits, and even a little bit of running each day can significantly improve your health and extend your life.
Cardiovascular Health
Running is one of the best cardio exercises, and it can significantly lower your risk of cardiovascular disease. Studies have shown that running for at least 10 minutes a day can reduce your chances of dying from heart disease by half. It also lowers your resting heart rate, an important indicator of your overall health and fitness.
Improved Knee and Back Health
Running can also positively impact your knee and back health. A study of 675 marathon runners found that they had a lower arthritis rate than non-runners, and the more they ran, the lower their odds of back problems as they aged.
Improved Memory
Running can also boost your memory and cognitive function. Aerobic exercise increases your heart rate and makes you sweat, which can lead to an increase in the size of your hippocampus, the part of your brain responsible for memory and learning.
Better Sleep
Running can improve your sleep quality. However, it is recommended to avoid running too late in the day as it may interfere with your sleep schedule.
Boosted Mood and Energy
Running is known to improve mood and increase energy levels. It can be a great way to feel better and boost your self-confidence.
Strong Bones
As a weight-bearing exercise, running helps to build and maintain strong bones.
Improved Overall Health
Regular running can significantly improve your overall health, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and promote healthy ageing. It is an excellent way to maintain a healthy lifestyle and improve your quality of life.
Running across Australia has been achieved by several individuals, each covering distances of several thousand kilometres. These runs are not for the faint of heart and require a significant amount of preparation and training. Before embarking on any running program, especially for such extreme distances, it is crucial to consult with a doctor to ensure your safety and develop a suitable plan.
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Frequently asked questions
The distance across Australia varies depending on the route taken. The distance between the east and west is approximately 4,000 km (2,500 mi), while the distance from north to south is roughly 3,860 km (2,400 mi). Runners who choose to circumnavigate Australia can expect to cover distances of around 14,300 km (8,900 mi).
The westernmost geographical extreme of Australia is Steep Point.
The easternmost geographical extreme of Australia is Cape Byron.
Pat Farmer holds the record for the fastest run around Australia, completing the 14,662.4 km (9,111 mi) journey in 191 days and 10 minutes.
There are several tools available to track running distances, such as GPS fitness trackers, running apps like Nike Run Club, and route planners like Mapometer and On The Go Map.
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