Customized Online Run Coaching For Beginner, Novice and Intermediate Runners
About me
Coach Mike Audfroid
UESCA Certified Running Coach | Founder, Underdog RunningHi, I’m Mike. Originally from New Brunswick, I moved to Calgary over 20 years ago and proudly call this city home. I'm in my 40s, a husband, a dad to two awesome daughters, and a lifelong sport and fitness enthusiast.
For more than 20 years, I’ve worked in the social services field, helping people develop action plans to achieve their goals. This skill set carries over naturally into my coaching because I focus on meeting people where they are, understanding their barriers, and supporting them with clear and realistic steps forward.
Outside of running and working out, I enjoy spending time with my family, listening to live music, coaching and playing sports, travelling, and relaxing at our RV.
My running journey began casually in my early 20s as a way to stay active, with the occasional road race thrown in for fun. I ran my first 10K in 2002 and, on a whim, signed up for my first half marathon in 2009. At that time, I wasn’t following any kind of structured plan, ran inconsistently, and didn’t take running very seriously.
Things shifted in 2016. After giving up alcohol, I turned to running as an outlet that supported both my physical and mental health. What started as exercise quickly became an anchor in my life. Through consistent training, I discovered how powerful running could be, not just for fitness but also for confidence and personal growth. Since then, I’ve completed 15 half marathons, one full marathon, and countless other races ranging from 5K to 42.2K.
I started Underdog Running because, even though running is one of the most accessible and inclusive sports, it can still feel intimidating to get started. My goal as a coach is to change that. Whether you are brand new to running, trying to stay motivated, or chasing a race goal, I am here to support you with training that is safe, sustainable, and built around your lifestyle. I want to help you experience how running can transform your health, confidence, and mindset, no matter where you are starting from.
Coaching
I work primarily with new, beginner, and intermediate runners who want to add running to their fitness routine or train for a specific race or time goal.
To keep coaching accessible, I offer online coaching to clients across Canada, as well as a hybrid of in‑person and virtual coaching for local athletes living in Calgary and the surrounding area. My approach is personalized, strength‑based, and built around each athlete’s unique goals, lifestyle, and motivation.
Whether you're lacing up for your very first run or chasing a faster finish time, I’ll meet you where you’re at and help you build a game plan that moves you toward your goals.Who I Work With
While I welcome runners of all backgrounds, I’m especially passionate about working with:• Brand-new runners looking for structure and support
• Casual runners curious about structured training
• Intermediate runners who have hit a plateau
• People using running as a tool for mental health or recovery
• Strength athletes wanting to build an aerobic base
• Individuals managing chronic illness or disabilities who want to safely improve or maintain fitness (with physician clearance)
• Individuals struggling with motivation and staying activeTraining Distances Covered
I coach athletes training for distances from 5K to the marathon and all the miles in between.The Coaching Process
1. Initial Call
We’ll start with a video chat or in-person meeting to make sure we’re a good fit. We’ll talk about your fitness background, goals, lifestyle, schedule, and any upcoming races. You’ll also complete an intake questionnaire to help guide your custom plan.2. Plan Setup
From there, I’ll create a long-term outline tailored to your goals and training availability. You’ll be invited to join Final Surge, our coaching platform, where your workouts will be scheduled.3. Ongoing Training & Support
Your workouts will be loaded into Final Surge several weeks in advance so you can stay focused and flexible. I provide weekly feedback, plus unlimited communication via email, text, or directly in Final Surge. You will also be invited to join our team chat on WhatsApp!
Pricing
All-Inclusive Coaching
$125/monthWhat’s Included:• Custom training plans built around your life, schedule, and goals• Unlimited access to me via email, text, and the Final Surge app for questions, feedback, and motivation• Training delivered and updated through the Final Surge coaching platform• Monthly check-in run or meeting for Calgary-based athletes (or video call for virtual clients)• Race planning and post-race analysis to help you show up prepared and learn from each effort• Supplemental guidance for strength, mobility, and fueling—based on your needsBasically, I’m here to support you however I can, just reach out and let’s start the conversation!A Few Notes on Pricing
• No contracts. Coaching is billed monthly to keep things flexible.• For best results, I recommend a 3-month commitment, as it takes time to build an aerobic base and allow your body to adjust to a new fitness routine.• 30 days’ notice is appreciated if you need to pause or cancel.Most importantly: if you’re not enjoying the process, you can stop anytime! I want this to be a fun experience—for both of us!
Contact me
Let’s Get Started!
If you’re ready to take the next step, let’s chat! I’m happy to answer any questions and see how I can best support your running journey.