Meet Dr. Devon Coetzee – Science to Sport’s Head of Running
With over a decade of experience coaching runners of all levels, from first-time 5 km finishers to elite ultramarathon athletes, Dr. Devon Coetzee brings a rare blend of scientific expertise, real-world running experience, and deep human understanding to the Science to Sport team.
Delivering Research & Results
As a Biokineticist and PhD graduate in Running Biomechanics and Injury from the University of Cape Town, Devon’s work covers both cutting-edge research and real-world performance. He is also the founder of Beyond Performance Sports Injury Centre in Cape Town, a leading multidisciplinary practice known for its integrated approach to rehabilitation, performance, and injury prevention.
Research With Global Impact
Over the years, Devon has authored multiple internationally published scientific papers on topics such as running injury risk, biomechanics, and footwear. His research includes collaborations with elite athletes, from novice runners to world-class performers, and his findings have shaped how coaches, clinicians, and footwear developers approach the science of running.
Yet Devon’s coaching philosophy goes far beyond data and performance metrics.
“I believe in coaching the whole person, not just the runner. Running is a journey of personal growth, self-awareness, and development. When running starts to feel like a chore, it’s usually a sign something needs adjusting — training should complement your life, not compete with it.”
For Devon, success in running isn’t measured only by race times, but by consistency, balance, and joy. His coaching is designed to help runners train smarter, not just harder, merging cutting-edge sports science with an understanding of the athlete’s body, lifestyle, and mindset.
Guided by Personal Experience
Having completed numerous ultramarathon-distance trail races and performed strongly in faster road events, Devon’s coaching is rooted in empathy and lived experience. He understands the physical and emotional demands of endurance sport and uses this insight to guide his athletes with precision and care.
Devon’s approach to coaching integrates:
- Evidence-based training grounded in physiology and biomechanics.
- Personalized structure tailored around each athlete’s life, goals, and challenges.
- Injury prevention and movement efficiency, built from his clinical expertise.
- Mental well-being and sustainability, ensuring running remains a lifelong passion.
Whether helping a runner prepare for their first trail race or fine-tuning the performance of an elite athlete, Devon’s goal remains the same, to make running a positive, lasting part of your lifestyle.
“When running fits naturally into your life and brings satisfaction, it becomes something you want to do, not something you have to do. That’s when progress truly happens.”
With his leadership, Science to Sport’s running division combines world-class research, individualized programming, and human-centered coaching, setting a new standard for how athletes can train, perform, and thrive.
