Mel Bingley
Co-Founder

Bachelor Digital Media, University of New South Wales

Other:
Certificate III Fitness
First Aid & CPR

Mel Bingley is the co-founder of Century Strong, Canberra’s largest high-performance outdoor fitness provider. A skilled coach, experienced media specialist, mother of three school-aged children, and accomplished trail endurance runner, Mel brings energy, integrity, and heart to everything she does.

Mel’s passion for health and fitness began in Sydney, where she entered her first City2Surf on a whim—and unknowingly stepped into a lifelong commitment to movement, mindset, and community. That single event sparked her belief in the power of shared physical challenges to bring people together and transform lives. Inspired by how individuals of all abilities showed up for themselves and each other, Mel discovered a calling far beyond a finish line: building communities through fitness.

In 2010, after years training and working in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, Mel and her partner Steve Bingley returned to Canberra to establish what would become Century Strong. There, she developed her signature coaching style—firm but friendly—and quickly gained a reputation for her unmatched core sessions. For Mel, inspiration has always come from those she trains: everyday people overcoming challenges, supporting one another, and building lifelong bonds through shared adversity. That team-first culture remains central to Century Strong’s success and identity.

Behind the scenes, Mel is the operational engine of the business. With qualifications in digital media and a background in business, she has built the systems and service standards that power Century Strong’s reputation for excellence. Her approach to operations is grounded in transparency, consistency, and a fierce commitment to customer care—ensuring that every athlete, regardless of ability, receives a professional and empowering experience.

Mel is also a passionate endurance athlete and advocate for the sport. She is the Race Director of the Stromlo Running Festival, Canberra’s largest trail running event and an award-winning highlight of the national race calendar. Since taking the helm in 2019, Mel has grown the festival into a flagship community event that celebrates inclusivity, challenge, and connection. In 2025, she completed her longest ultramarathon to date—a 100km trail race—adding to a resume that includes multiple Ultra-Trail Australia finishes and countless early mornings spent running the trails near her home in Kowen Forest.

Despite her achievements in business and sport, Mel’s proudest role is as a mum. Raising three active, growing kids keeps her on her toes and fuels her motivation to stay fit, grounded, and resilient. She’s also a committed community contributor, having raised over $20,000 for charities including the Australian Cancer Research Foundation, Kmart Wishing Tree, UnitingCare Kippax, and Street Swags.

Mel leads with compassion, consistency, and purpose—values that permeate every layer of Century Strong. Whether she’s planning an event, supporting a client, or hitting the trails, Mel shows up with heart. With her at the helm, you can be sure of one thing: you’ll be seen, supported, and inspired to chase your own version of strong.