This Is Trail Running x Black Forest Ultra presents:
Black Forest Ultra - The Inner Landscape
GO FURTHER. GO DEEPER.
Trail running is more than miles and mountains. It is a space to explore both our inner and outer landscape, and to connect physical efforts to the rhythm of the wild spaces we run through.
More than a race. More than a finish line. The deeper journey is within.
Many training plans focus on the physical build: the weekly mileage, the elevation gain, the strength training and the nutrition strategy. However, when you are deep in the woods, facing the relentless terrain of the Black Forest Ultra, the real challenge is internal.This is a mindful preparation and integration journey designed to help you build your inner foundation, listen to your body, and process the raw experience of your race alongside your fellow runners. AKA those of you who are both brave and silly enough to commit to this epically diabolical adventure.
Your Journey
Four live calls, simple practices to ground your intention and explore your inner experience, alongside a community of fellow trail runners.
Phase 1: Pre Race Prep
CALL 1: Set Your Intention
September 9, 2026 7-8:30pmEstablish your inner foundation: Define your personal "why," explore what you are carrying into this training block, and identify what you are ready to leave behind on the trail.
Embodiment practices: Learn simple, grounding breath and movement practices to help you connect with your body.CALL 2: Prepare Your Inner Athlete
September 23, 2026 7-8:30pmDeeper listening: Tune into your body's quiet (or not so quiet) cues with simple embodiment techniques.
Navigating the lows: Explore productive ways to work through fear and doubt, staying firmly anchored to your intentions when the miles get tough.
Unpacking the DNF: Explore the outcomes that are less desirable, determine mental strategies to move through difficult decisions with grace and compassion.
October 4, 2026: Race Day! Put your tools and training to the test and enjoy the trails!
Phase 2: Post Race Integration
CALL 3: What Actually Happened Out There?!
October 7, 2026 7-8:30pmThe download: Share, unpack, and honor the unfiltered highs and lows of your race day. Delve into what the body is still holding and uncover your key takeaways. Together we process the story of your run before the memory fades.CALL 4: Ok, So Now What?!
October 21, 2026 7-8:30pmIntegrate the experience: How to translate the breakthroughs, grit, and insights you found in the forest into your everyday life. Consider what has stayed, what has faded and what you want to embody going forwards. Share reflections and feedback.
Join the Cohort!
Commit to a deeper exploration of what lies beyond the finish line.Pricing: $63 ($1 per mile)
Includes all four live calls, call recordings, shared resources, and a private group chat for sharing, encouragement and reflections.
Kristine Vanderplas
Meet Your Guide
I am a trail runner, a lover of nature, an avid fan of travel and a believer in the power of wild spaces. Spending hours moving through the mountains and the woods isn't only about physical training or chasing finish lines, it is a practice of self-discovery, presence, and connection to the natural cycles around us. I think most of us have a sense of this and it's why we keep coming back. Although the epic community and copious trail snacks are pretty rad too.Having navigated the highs and lows of long-distance trail running, I know that often the toughest terrain we encounter on race day isn't the steep climbs or the rocky descents. It's the internal landscape of our own minds. The BFU almost broke me last year - and - I learned so much from my experience. I've been an explorer of my own inner landscape for over 15 years, having taught yoga, meditation and embodiment practices based on wisdom traditions.I see this cohort as a space of curiosity and co-creation, a space to listen and share, a space to share the mental, emotional, and movement practices that can support us both on and off the trail. Ultimately I see this as a space where we can celebrate, process, and witness each other through our deeper journeys.
Questions?
Feel free to reach out with questions!
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