In the Zone (Kobe Blondeel)

We're 6 days out from the start of our run across Belgium. Today I answer your questions about the upcoming adventure :)!

socials:

Instagram: @kobeblondeel 

Website: www.kobeblondeel.com

An update on my marathon training to run a sub 2:20 marathon

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

Are we training professionally enough? Or are we just having too much fun? 

 

Some thoughts we're pondering on today's episode. 

Social links,

Instagram nick

Instagram In The Zone

In todays episode I give and explain 5 banger workouts that you can use in your training.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

Meditation will change your running and your ability to perform.  

In this episode we talk about why it's so powerful, how to practice it, and common obstacles. 

Please share your comments and questions on Instagram or LinkedIn :)!

Socials:

IG: inthezone.coaching

Linkedin: Kobe Blondeel

An update on my marathon training to run a sub 2:20 marathon.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

Have you ever set big goals only to notice you struggle to put in the work?

In this episode we explain why that happens and share an alternative way to set goals that comes with sustained motivation.

Please share your comments and questions on Instagram or LinkedIn :)!

socials:

Instagram: @Kobeblondeel

Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel

Today Nick & I share about our first training house experience in Girona. It was so much more beautiful than we had expected. 

 

Nick also shares about his inner journey in recovering from injury. And I talk about my struggle to accept I don't have any race goals the way I'm used to. 

 

We're looking forward to sharing more of these conversations where we give insight into our own journey before we tackle a specific topic* that helped us get to where we are today. Both as runners and human beings, living the life we do today. 

 

We both wish you a warm and insightful episode. 

 

Let us know if there's any questions you'd like to hear us answer or any topic you'd like to have us expand on. 

 

*For example how we quit our engineering jobs, how we discover who we are and what we want, how we learn to tune out other people's opinions, how we learn how to be ourselves, how we train, how we set goals, what we still struggle with today…anything goes. 

An update on my marathon training to run a sub 2:20 marathon.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

While putting out the garbage I noticed how beautiful of an evening it was so I went for a walk and shared my thoughts about how I'm bouncing back from running across Belgium. 

Please share your comments and questions on Instagram or LinkedIn :)!

socials:

Instagram: @Kobeblondeel

Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel

An update on my marathon training to run a sub 2:20 marathon.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

What if you get jealous of the exact person you're crewing on their FKT?
I feel uncomfortable sharing about the topic. Especially because I feel a lot of shame about this 5-year-old part of myself. But it is real and it was looking for ways to express itself.
It's not what I expected the conversation with Chris to revolve around, but I'm incredibly grateful I got to talk through the experience with him.
He just got back from crewing a 76-day FKT (raising £300 000 in the process), where he had a similar experience.
Chris's own openness and ability to put his inner world into words made this a healing conversation for me.
We talked right before I'm leaving for the PCT. It couldn't have been better timing.
Thanks for this one, Chris.
I hope we'll have many more of these conversations in the future.

Social links:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylorchristaylor/ 
• Website: www.taylormadecoaching.uk
  

I ran a half marathon although it went great it didn't feel like that.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

An update on my marathon training to run a sub 2:20 marathon.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

Nick Fowler, in a self-supported attempt, was on pace to beat the supported PCT record by 2 days*.
And then he got stuck in a cave for 41 hours, dodging a hurricane in the Sierra.
To make matters worse, he started peeing red, got washed away by several river crossings, and tore his quad.
But he still ended up breaking the self-supported record by over 3 days.
We were lucky enough to run into Nick halfway through our own FKT attempt. And his energy (he was running by himself for over 3 weeks at that point) was inspiring.
I just wanted to have him on the show to understand what kind of human being even thinks about attempting an endeavor like this solo.
Knowing how hard it was for Karel and the crew, I can only imagine how intense it must be to spend all those weeks alone.
I'm grateful for this open, inspiring, sometimes raw, conversation I was able to have with Nick.
I wish you a perspective-shifting episode.
And keep an eye out for his upcoming book about his earlier FKT on the Pacific Northwest trail. It even has a chapter about Karel.
*Timothy Olsen's supported record.

Social link's:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nick.fowler.says.hi/ 

• Book: www.PNTbook.com  

Today I have a conversation with coach Nick about why and how he moved to Chamonix

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

Yes, Stefaan went from a 3h53 to a 2h59 marathon in 18 months.   But what inspires me the most is the peace and confidence he radiated before he toed the starting line in Rotterdam last month.   18 months ago, Stefaan would've been worrying about each split and anxiously forcing his race when things didn't go according to plan.   Last month, he was hardly concerned about the outcome, knowing he was just there to give it his all. Perhaps it was enough to hit the goal. And perhaps it wasn't.   He simply fearlessly committed to something he cared about.   I wanted to get Stefaan on the podcast because it requires courage to trust the power of letting go. And I wanted to hear his perspective on how he navigated this transformation.   We ended up talking about: The fear of not being accepted The key practices that helped him shift Why he was willing to look at the stories he was telling himself And how inner peace and performance are actually the same thing   Stefaan is one of our OG members at In the Zone and his journey has been inspiring to witness.   I hope it can inspire you as well.   Enjoy this episode.   Let me know the #1 thing that sticks in the comments on linkedin or Instagram Socials Stefaan: Instagram Linkedin

Today Nick & myself share our recent race experiences. How it went, what we take away from it, and what's coming next.
From embracing the running lifestyle even more to accepting we just have a lot of fun doing this.
And I'll keep saying this.
We're just getting started.

let me know the #1 that sticks in the comments on ⁠Instagram⁠ or ⁠linkedin

Today Nick shares about how he's coming back from injury while I talk about how I'm progressing in my strength work. 

 

In the 2nd part of the episode we talk about how we both quit our engineering jobs. What made us do so, the challenges, and how we ended up doing it. 

 

Let us know what other topics or questions you'd like us to cover. 

 

Enjoy the episode! 

There's an art to DNF'ing. It doesn't have to have a bad aftertaste. 

 

When done right it can be a transformative experience. 

 

In this episode Patrick elaborates how he processed multiple DNF's in 2023. 

 

Instead of feeling sorry for himself, he speaks from a place of accountability and growth. 

 

It's a conversation that helps you put "failure" into perspective and feel more open towards taking on challenges. 

 

I wish you a fun and insightful conversation. 

You can be barefoot strong in "normal" running shoes.
So you don't even have to ditch your Vaporfly's on race day to benefit from strong feet.
In our conversation Anton, barefoot specialist, shares:
- why strong feet can make you run faster
- as well as less injury-prone
And how to actually make your feet grow stronger.

• Social links:
• IG: https://www.instagram.com/barefoot_belgium/
• Website: www.barefootbelgium.com
• Barefoot specialists: https://www.ebfaglobal.com/
• IG: https://www.instagram.com/gaithappens/
• IG: https://www.instagram.com/thefunctionalfootdoc/

An update on my marathon training to run a sub 2:20 marathon.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

Why does your motivation come and go? Why do you feel bad when you can't stick to the training plan? Why do you struggle to believe in yourself?
You've likely already experienced that there's bigger challenges in reaching your goal than just the physical training.
Motivation, race nerves, perfectionism, dealing with setbacks, confidence…the one even more elusive than the other.
You're aware of it, but you wonder how you can do something about it.
That's why I wanted to have this conversation with Olivier Goetgeluck.
We took the time to shine a light on the invisible world of athletes for 2h straight.
How does it work? Why does it feel so intangible? And what can I do about it?
It's our hope that you find some pointers on your own journey to be more relaxed, confident, consistent, and resilient in training and racing.
Let us know what sticks.

Social links:

• Instagram: http://instagram.com/goetgeluck
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/goetgeluck/
• Website: http://oliviergoetgeluck.com/
• News: http://oliviergoetgeluck.com/news 
  

In this episode, I give a quick update on my marathon training for the past two weeks.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

Last week I ran 160km and I felt incredibly strong. One more week and until tapering.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

After a break, the podcast is back. And how! I'm excited to kick-off our next line of guests with non other than my partner in crime Nick Cusseneers. It's been a while since we shared about our own journey. But many exciting projects are cooking and we no longer wanted to withhold them from you. We both changed since our last conversations, so in this one we also expanded on how our perspective on running and performance are changing. Social links: Instagram

An update on my marathon training to run a sub 2:20 marathon.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

A summary of day 2 running across Belgium.

socials:

Instagram: @kobeblondeel 

Website: www.kobeblondeel.com

An update on my marathon training to run a sub 2:20 marathon.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

Susan is currently exploring her relationship with running. From running podium in the Dutch Championships, through years of injury, to hiking the PCT last year. 

 

These experiences are teaching her different things about herself as a human being as much as it allows to her to explore the purpose of running in her life. 

 

This is a conversation for those who want to live more openly and want to cultivate the courage to do the things that are important to them. 

Social links,

 Instagram: @susanvanweperen 

An update on my marathon training to run a sub 2:20 marathon.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

I wanted to share about my most challenging pre-race week so far it isn't going the way I'm used to I still need to process everything but decided to share regardless.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

In this episode I talk about a tool called self-discipline and how used to use it.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

I grew silent hearing everything Ari went through in his life. But the fact he went through all that and still sat there smiling was incredibly humbling and inspiring. 

 

I initially invited him on the podcast because he was a monk at one point in his life. And I was curious how that experience translated to ultra running. 

 

Turns out this was only a small part of our conversation. The man just had a lot of wisdom to offer. Not just on running, but also on how to live life. 

 

Living/running with an open heart, the nonsense of putting pressure on yourself, the importance of compassion and empathy, and why we should stop judging people. These are just a couple of the themes we touched on. 

 

It's another episode for anyone who wants to live and run more freely, compassionately, and openly. For anyone who wants to connect to the depth of our running experience and leverage running as a process of self-discovery. 

 

Enjoy the episode. 

InTheZone instagram

It requires elite athlete skills to do what Roeland did.
It's just not as easily spotted.
Most people at 200kg would probably not even allow the thought of ever running a half marathon. Yet, Roeland somehow believed it was possible.
Patiently he dedicated himself to the journey of weight loss and eventually to training for his first half marathon.
This is a podcast where we cover:
○ How to lose weight and train sustainably
○ The power of a humble, curious, and patient mindset
○ What's even much more important than weight loss to Roeland
It's inspiring. And I hope to have many more of these elite athletes in disguise on the podcast.
Let me know if you know one of these superheroes.

• Instagram

Brooks Bash got injured at mile 6 of a 300 mile race. It sounded ridiculous, but then he mentioned he just ran 100 marathons in 100 days in the months prior.

 

It puts the injury in perspective, but it also begs the question: what's the point of all this? Isn't this whole ultra world just spinning out of control?

 

I'm curious to hear with your thoughts on the topic. Drop them in the comments.

How Brooks still managed to finish this race, what learned from running 100 marathons in 100 days, and his motivation for getting into these crazy challenges is what we focus on in this one.

• Social links:
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brooksbash/
• Website: https://liveearthy.co/

"Feeling stuck in a life of "have to's", Anthony got confronted with the impact of his high-paced lifestyle. Not only did he turn into a "high functional whining person"* without realizing it. He also went through nervous exhaustion syndrome. But it took him several relapses before he realized something had to change. At age 45 and with a family of his own, he faced a daunting new reality after parting ways with his previous employer. Yet, instead of succumbing to despair, he recognized that this was a rare, perhaps even once-in-a-lifetime, opportunity to make significant changes in his life. Life offered him a blank canvas. And so he embarked on a mission to run nonstop across Germany. One marathon at a time, covering a distance of 1900km. To raise awareness about mental health issues. The journey also turned out the be the catalyst for his own healing. To quote him, running saved him. And today he finds himself to be a running therapist. In our conversation, there was no trace of that whining person. Instead, I found myself talking to someone with profound insights into how to live a meaningful life. So, we talked about: How to get unstuck one step at a time The power of openness and vulnerability How running can be our teacher in that process How the door into a new life is always wide open Just to name a few things. This is gold for anyone feeling stuck, wondering what else life has to offer and for those excited to learn about life through running. This is a deep one. I wish you an insightful episode! *His own words." Social links: Instagram - anthony.horyna strava - anthony horyna  The Projekt 19/19 Website: www.projekt1919.de For the BOOK @Amazon: https://www.amazon.de/Projekt-19-durch-Deutschland-warum/dp/3755740370/

An update on my marathon training to run a sub 2:20 marathon.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

Updates on training and how we're sculpting our life to make it all work together. 

 

A question for our next episode? 

 

Just drop it in the comments. 

Links:

Nick's instagram

InTheZone

No one had asked me this before.
But I. Loved. The. Question.
I've done many solo podcast episodes but stopped doing them because I genuinely thought "they were too much" and no one got what I was saying.
So, when Steve asked me to make an entire series out of my episode on "true performance" I couldn't believe it.
Skeptical that someone could be so interested in my perspective, I was hesitant at first. But after a couple of DM's, my guards quickly came down.
In this episode, we are actively exploring ways to explain how running is a spiritual path and how you can walk it.
I don't know why this topic gets me so excited, but I'm glad I found someone who's just as eager to explore it with me.
Is this the beginning of an ongoing series with Steve?
You definitely let me know in the comments what you want us to expand on.

Steve's instagram

A quick update on my marathon training this week.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

From LA to Las Vegas on foot, as fast as possible. No rules. 
 
That's The Speed Project. 
 
Unique concepts are not seldomly birthed by unique human beings. So, I invited Nils Arend on the podcast. 
 

We talk about: 

• How Nils' bizarre first marathon experience lead to the TSP 

• How it's bringing people together 

• And how to run 120km in 24h while partying non-stop in @sisyphosberlin 

 

I wanne do more of these. 

Social links:

• @nils_hh
• @thespeedproject 

In this episode I explain what training intuitively means.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

I was running down from La Flégère to make it into Chamonix in time.
Not because I was racing myself, but because I wanted to see Maximilien finish his Marathon du Mont Blanc.
We haven't had many Belgians contend at the international level, so I was excited to see how he'd do this time.
But being the current European champion trail running, it was no surprise he was shooting for the podium before he finished 6th.
Earlier that weekend, Florian Descamps and Laura Van Vooren had finished 7th and 3th respectively the 90km race of Marathon du Mont Blanc.
So, I couldn't help but get excited about where Belgian trail running is headed.
That's why I wanted to get to know Maximilien better, hear all about his race and understand how he got to be a world-class trail runner.
I'm looking forward to having more of our best trail runners on in the future, so let me know how you like this episode."

Social links:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maximiliendrion/

You're probably familiar with the performance benefits of caffeine and nitrates. Maybe you've even heard about the benefits of bicarbonate.

 

But what about cordyceps and lion's mane? Medicinal mushrooms that can serve as a clean source of energy, help your breathing, and even boost your ability to focus.

 

Endorf is rethinking the way we think about optimizing performance through supplementation.

 

Through their holistic approach, they don't just settle for supplements that target the body. They're going after the mind just as much.

 

That's why I wanted to know all about it.

 

In this episode, Founder Yav shares the story behind the company, current developments, and how these supplements can boost your performance and enhance your recovery

Endorf social links:

Instagram

Linkedin

Website

I've always been thinking about starting a podcast. So, I'm grateful that, after 5 years, it finally happened :). In this episode, I explain why it took me so long. 

socials:

Instagram: @kobeblondeel 

Website: www.kobeblondeel.com

George, a Melbourne raised runner, living in the Scottish Highlands who loves running, eating, and travel. In our conversation, we talk about his journey from: Working at a travel agency to riding Deliveroo, and ending up creating running retreats for Aire Libre We also ended up covering: The struggle of outgrowing friendships And how he went from non-stop racing to only picking goals that mean something to him and training for them in a way that feels fun George is a mountain lover with a big heart and an example of how the dots connect when you decide to trust life and go for it. I don't believe it's a coincidence he ends up co-creating these unique experiences that bring together his passion for running, travel, and food. I wish you an insightful and inspiring episode. Let me know what sticks. Instagram George Instagram Sundays Website George

An update on my marathon training to run a sub 2:20 marathon.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

I woke up with a feeling of overenthusiasm today and it could cause you to perform worse.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone. 

Today I give you an overview of the projects I'm currently invested in :). Let me know what sticks on Instagram!

socials:

Instagram: @kobeblondeel 

Website: www.kobeblondeel.com

Nature, retreats, curiosity, and passion.
That's how I would describe the conversation I had with Mauricio.
And those exact themes are just as much the throughline in what they do at Aire Libre.
If you know that the "crying rate" is the metric they use to reflect on retreats, you know they don't host regular running camps.
With deep respect for the local environment and culture, they design stunning and moving retreats. Just check out their IG and you'll know what I mean.
But what struck me the most in this conversation is how organically Aire Libre came about.
By continuously following his curiosity, Mauricio (together with his co-founders) ended up at Aire Libre the way it is today.
It's a beautiful conversation for anyone who's curious about the power of curiosity, wants to learn how to find his/her own passion, or wants to hear the amazing origin story of Aire Libre.
I wish you a fun and insightful episode.

Social links:

• Aire libre Instagram
• Mauricio's instagram
• Mauricio's Linkedin
• Aire libre's Website
  

Dimitri, poet, journalist, runner, captain in the Antwerp Running Crew (ARC), and overall radiant human being. He got into running 14 years ago and has run 2 marathons a year for the past 12. He went from finishing his first in over 5 hours to now shooting to run a sub 3. But even though this is an inspirational transformation, it's hardly what running is about for Dimitri. We talk about what running means to him, the power of setting unreasonable goals, how he finds time to run, the infamous ARC boombox, and why running is a team sport. The best way to connect to Dimitri and what he does @dimitri_antonissen on Instagram. Enjoy the episode and let us know what sticks in the comments below :)!

The Valencia Marathon is coming up and I will be attempting to run a sub 2:20 marathon and maybe even faster.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

Today I share the game plan for project sub:220.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

How do you reintegrate into a fast-paced society after having run a marathon a day for 2 years straight?
In 2016, Seba Vandermolen started his 25 000km long journey (together with Weking Van Reeth) from the northernmost part of Alaska to the southernmost point of South America.
The idea alone is insane (and I'm an ultra runner).
It took them 2 years to finish the 25 000km.
But it seemed that the real journey started when Seba came back home.
Having gotten so used to the natural rhythm of each day, the Western pace of life was a shock to the system.
This is an inspiring conversation for anyone who wants to learn more about:
- what running can teach you about life
- how to not get sucked into a rushing society
- the essence of running
This one goes deep. Take some time to take it in.

• 
  https://www.instagram.com/viapanamtoday/

•  https://www.instagram.com/sebavandermolen/

In this episode I talk about letting go and how to do it anyway even tho you might be scared to do so.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

Ryan Willms, creative director, endurance athlete, host of the Mindful Endurance Program & podcast, and overall inspiration for what I do at In the Zone.

 

I love his Zen vibe and I'm honored to have him on the show.

 

Ryan is currently recovering from adrenal fatigue. It's a journey that is taking him deep into the wisdom of the nervous system.

 

Combined with his earlier spiritual work, we had an amazing conversation about how spirituality and endurance naturally come together.

 

We talked about:

• The power of acceptance
• How to feel safe in your own body
• Surrendering the control of the mind
• How you harm yourself through judging others
• How emotional suppression inhibits performance
• How looking for external validation can lead to exhaustion

 

And not just because these are key to experiencing true performance. But because it's what allows joy to flow throughout the entire training process.

 

The conversation is coated in a loving layer of Taoist wisdom.

 

I cherish this conversation, I hope there's many more like these to come.

 

Enjoy this one.

 

Let me know the #1 that sticks in the comments on Instagram or linkedin

Ryan's Social links

• Instagram MEP

• Instagram Ryan

• Website MEP

2 years ago, Thomas' mind didn't have an off switch and his emotions felt like Pandora's box. But when he continued to run into the same triggers in his relationship he somehow was drawn into the discomfort instead of scared away from it. Today, it feels like he's living out Thomas 2.0. I keep being amazed to hear stories about how quickly your life can turn around when you're ready to consciously turn into, instead of unconsciously away from, discomfort. Thomas was excited to share so openly for the first time about his journey over the past 2 years. And we went deep. We talked about: - How a Shaman introduced him to his inner world - His experiences with Ayahuasca - What he learned on his Vision Quest - How to go from surviving to being alive And the power of: - Using pain as a guide - Not having to understand everything - Curiosity and following your inner child - Being bored This is for anyone interested to feel just a little bit more alive. I wish you an inspiring and insightful episode! Links in the show notes. Website: unfolding.be linkedin: thomasvyncke Instagram: vynckethomas

An update on my marathon training to run a sub 2:20 marathon.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

Today I compare setting goals out of fear and goals out of joy. 

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

"When I run, I understand why I exist." - Sung Woo I knew we would vibe, but I didn't realize it would be at this level. We hardly covered any of the topics I had planned for. I just couldn't help but flow with this conversation. And we went deep. We talked about how Sung had tied his identity to sports and how it hurt him. How running was a saving grace in his struggle with depression, only to abandon him again later. We explored how he ended up healing his relationship to running and how it evolved profoundly because of it. He talks about his time in Kenya and how he went from graduating Stanford to founding @mindfulrunningschool. This one is dense. And deeply relevant to anyone resonating with the core of ITZ. How we grow as human beings through running and how we can understand the meaning of life through running. I'd love to hear what sticks from this one, because we touched on so many topics at the heart of what we do. I'm here to explore these more in depth, so let me know what you want to hear more of too. Sung Woo is a beautiful individual. Just experiencing his calmness is worth the listen. It's healing. And I wish you to experience his calmness too. 

Social links Sung Woo: Twitter, Instagram.

2023 has been a grand cru year for Laura. Podium in Marathon the Montblanc 91km & winning the 100 miler by UTMB in Nice. 

 

Hard work has been a key aspect to these stellar results. But she openly questions: what (amount of training) is enough? 

 

When is pushing more helpful? Or when am I just being hard on myself? 

 

We also talk about: 

• The impact of talent vs hard work 

• The importance of prioritizing your time 

• And how to make more time for training 

 

Laura also has a big heart for the world, so she doesn't shy away from asking herself, despite her inspiring results, if running is really what the world needs from her right now? 

 social links:

- instagram

Do goals help or hinder your spiritual growth through running? 

 

In today's episode, we invite you into a specific relationship to goals and process. Goals as tools, not outcomes and process as a state of being. 

 

We also expand on my current "goalless" situation, why I love it so much, and how I navigate my training process without goals. 

 

In both cases we invite you turn within and notice how your relationship to goals and process make you feel and how it can bring you closer to yourself and life. 

 

Enjoy the episode. 

 

And drop your questions in the comments. 

Instagram Steve

Instagram In The Zone

Over the past few weeks my perspective on the content I share with In The Zone has shifted.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

today I have a conversation with Nick and Beek about their perception and views on intuitive training.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

What does it take to run a relay along the entire European coast? 3.5 years ago, it started out as an idea to run non-stop, but logistics and finances required a different approach. Now, each year, runners are covering 20 stages of 100km to continue to chunk at the 100 000km of European coast. Each runner has to be able to finish a 100km stage before handing over the figurative torch to the next one. Making this not only a huge macro challenge (to finish the 100 000km) but a micro challenge for each runner as well. But this is so much more than a physical challenge. That's why I wanted to get together with Charles Van Haverbeke (co-founder of the project) to get a better understanding of what happens behind the scenes of Follow the coast (what started out as Run the mare nostrum) and where the idea even came from. We talked about where the journey is at, the bond it creates between the runners, how the seed for the project was planted at the marathon des sables, his love for running, what it takes to publish a book… But also about his partner in crime Max Monteyne and how they navigate the logistical and financial challenges of the project together. The journey's continuing this year from Punta Torrella (close to Santiago de Compostela) and takes another break in Aldea Noa (just south of Lisbon). They're still looking for runners to run some stages, so if you get excited after listening to our conversation, don't hesitate to sign-up! It's going to be beautiful. You can sign-up for one of the stages on their website or reach out to them on Instagram. You can find the links here

Welcome to week 5 of Project sub 2h20, where I share about training for a sub 2h20 marathon. 

Today, the data of week 5, feeling fatigued, and mental blocks around running 3:00min/km in workouts.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

today I have a conversation with coach Nick.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

A quick update on my marathon training this week.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

In today's episode I talk about a not-so-commonly known way of growing personally: spiritually.

In this episode I have a conversation with Lorenzo Spinnoy about him hiking the Via Alpina for 6 weeks

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

An update on my marathon training to run a sub 2:20 marathon. Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

A summary of day 1 running across Belgium.

socials:

Instagram: @kobeblondeel 

Website: www.kobeblondeel.com

Please share your comments and questions on Instagram or LinkedIn :)!

socials:

Instagram: @Kobeblondeel

Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel

In this episode I talk about how to manage stress and emotions so you don't choke on races.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

I first thought Jurian was crazy.⁠

⁠

Why would you consider starting a new company in such competitive and seemingly saturated market?⁠

⁠

But when we started talking, it all made sense.⁠

⁠

His passion for running and knowledge of the running shoe business go deep.⁠

⁠

Having worked at Nike, Asics, Newton, and 361 for a total of 16 years, it's no surprise he knows the running business inside out.⁠

⁠

But it's Jurian's personal connection to running where 4T2, his new running brand, comes alive.⁠

⁠

"Gone running" was born from his love to just "get lost" and "be outher there running". Nothing more nothing less.⁠

⁠

Leaving the safe corporate environment behind after a 25-year career for the high-risk start-up space makes this an inspiring conversation for anyone aspiring to live on his/her own terms.⁠

⁠

We talk about how the 4T2 brand came into being, what it takes to start a brand in such saturated market, and how they're manifesting the 4T2 vision.⁠

⁠

The best way to connect to Jurian and 4T2 is on IG @jurianelstgeest and @4t2.run.⁠

⁠

Enjoy!⁠

Today we tried to talk about principle/provocation 3 in our 4 part series…but we didn't get to it. 

 

Instead of talking about the potential of running free from "assumptions", we got carried away talking about how to apply the "no judgement" and "no expectations" principle. 

 

Enjoy the episode. 

 

In the episode I share today, I explain how opening up to spirituality never really was a choice. Life forced it on me. It was the only way for me not to die.  

The episode I share today goes deep. I share how anxiety almost killed me and the (seeming) randomness that kept me walking this planet.  It's for people who wonder why I dare to use big words and talk about profound topics. And for those who're interested to learn more about my journey with anxiety and the wisdom it holds.  I wish you an insightful episode.  

And whatever you feel like sharing while listening to it, feel free to do so in the comments or reach out in a DM. I'd love to talk more on the subject.

socials:

Instagram: @Kobeblondeel

Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel

Thomas inspired me to go on my run across Belgium.

 

So, when I heard he was going to be part of Barkley, I just couldn't wait to hear everything about his experience.

 

I thought I knew a thing or 2 about the race. I've probably watched every Barkley documentary out there.

 

So, I was shocked to hear it's so much more intense than I thought it was:

• Sliding down hills & falling trees
• Memorizing the course while keeping up with the veterans
• Trying to get your calories in while scrambling up and down constantly
• Going from freezing cold to sweating your ass off
• 2 water stops on a 12h-loop

 

And I could make the list much longer.

 

Needless to say, this was a fascinating conversation, where we talked about:

• How Thomas prepared Barkley in the Swiss Alps
• How he experienced the race
• Why the race is so hard to finish
• What he'd do differently
• What's next on his horizon

 

He didn't inspire me (yet) to make an attempt at Barkley myself. But he did inspire me (again) to just go after the goals I care about, however silly other people think it might sound.

 

Thanks for the inspiration, once again, Thomas!

 

And to you, reader, I wish you a joyful and insightful episode!

 

P.S. Thomas is currently running his way across the Canarian Islands with @runthemarenostrum. So, I hope he gets to see this!

Instagram of thomas

Alexandra's short doc "Resilient" recently won 1st prize at the trialsofmilesracing film festival.
It touches on her journey with chronic depression and how running has helped her manage it.
And it's the red thread throughout our conversation.
Enjoy the episode.

Watch the film here

Turning pro lands you in this funny place. It gives you both more time and pressure to train. 

 

So, how do you make sure the pressure doesn't outweigh the time aspect? 

 

Today, Alyssa shares how her eagerness to show herself as a pro backfired, how it lead to DNF'ing instead of shining, and what she learned from it. 

 

I wish you an insightful episode. 

An update on my marathon training to run a sub 2:20 marathon.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

How does sleep impact your progress?

What prevents us from sleeping well? And what can we do to feel refreshed each morning?  

These are key questions we explore in today's episode.  If this one's for you, enjoy :)!

socials:

Instagram: @Kobeblondeel

Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel

In this episode I have an interesting conversation with Beek Hadler who I met in Chamonix

Beware throughout the episode the topic of an eating disorder is touched upon.

Contact Beek via email: beekhadler@web.de or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beek.hadler/

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

Dirtbag runner, surfer, and skater. 

 

Or to quote @satisfyrunning: "A recklessly fun and outgoing individual, who does not shy away from any challenge." 

 

We talk about what it's like to be a pro athlete at Satisfy, his 880+ day running streak, and his overall obsession with running. 

 

Get inspired by Max's non-nonsense approach to the sport and his raw honesty about his journey. 

Social link: @woah_max on instagram and tiktok

You likely know your training plan helps you grow physically stronger. 

 

But a training plan is secretly an opportunity for personal and spiritual growth just as much. 

 

It's inviting you to into new perspectives about the meaning of "failing" or missing workouts. Or to reconsider the importance of achieving goals and why you're running in the first place. 

 

When you accept these invitations, exploring where they take you, you get the opportunity to get to know yourself in a whole new way and even find out you're not even who you thought you were. 

 

In this episode we explain where you can find this spiritual dimension in your training plan and how to start working with it. 

 

We'd love to make the Inner dialogue series a conversation with you, the listener. 

 

So, if these conversations trigger questions about your own inner journey, please share them. 

 

You can do so in the comments below or in the DM's. 

 

I wish you an insightful episode. 

Social links:

- ⁠Instagram⁠

- ⁠Substack⁠

- ⁠Website

Earlier this year, Chris set out to be competitive in the Spine. But the race did not remotely go the way he expected. 

 

Instead of getting the result he was after, he quit the race. Unknowingly the race had triggered a cocktail of unresolved stories & emotions and ended up leading into a panic attack. 

 

2 months later, the dust has settled and integrated into a transformative experience. 

 

It's an honor to have guests on the show with the courage to share as vulnerably as Chris. 

 

The way he grew through and his perspective on the experience is inspiring. 

 

I wish you an inspiring and insightful episode. 

Anger and sadness have been two emotions I've struggled to accept. Through some recent experiences and insights, my perspective on these emotions shifted. Dramatically. When faced with these two emotions, my experience used to be discomfort and shame. Now I feel nothing but gratitude and I'm blown away by the wisdom in these emotions. In this episode, I explain how I went through that shift.

Please share your comments and questions on Instagram or LinkedIn :)!

socials:

Instagram: @Kobeblondeel

Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel

In this episode I explain why you struggle to find out who you are and I give you three tools that can help you figure yourself out.

I always wondered how ultra cycling and running compared.

And when I started talking to Nol from Fatpigeon, I knew I had found the right guy for the conversation.

 

He loves exploring the most unique places riding his bike, however long it takes him.

 

Through sheer passion and the fact he loved filming his own adventures, he even made his job out of riding his bike.

 

We discuss the differences and similarities between both ultra cycling and running, from community to fueling an event and from training to hallucinating.

 

All while weaving in Nol's personal story.

 

I wish you a fun and insightful episode.

 

Let me know the #1 that sticks in the comments below.

 

You can find all links to Fatpigeon in the show notes.

 

P.S. We'll have to do this one again in the future, so Loek (Nol's co-founder) can be there too!

Social links:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatpigeon.cc/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nolvanloon/
• Website: https://www.fatpigeon.cc/
• Cyclism: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8NbnxYIgGms&ab_channel=Fatpigeon

To think about performance in a goal-oriented way is to limit yourself tremendously.  

In today's podcast, we share a powerful alternative to approach performance.

It's about setting yourself free and experiencing unlimited flow.

Socials:

IG: inthezone.coaching

Linkedin: Kobe Blondeel

How do you balance your running aspirations with family & business life?

 

Mike Kratzer, father of 3 and working at a creative agency is still out to hit his best marathon times.

 

But wanting to perform while being busy comes with specific challenges. And these specific challenges require specific tools.

 

That's why we talked about how to:

• live out your priorities
• know if you should train or rest
• handle unexpected projects at work
• navigate "running tension" in your relationship

 

Self-awareness, discernment, meditation, honesty, and running with intention are just a couple of the tools we covered.

 

Enjoy your listen.

 

et me know the #1 that sticks in the comments on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠linkedin

• Social links:
• Instagram: 
• https://www.instagram.com/mikey_kratzer_/
• https://www.instagram.com/pma_r_/
  

Did you know "Running while black" is an issue affecting Black runners when they go out to log their miles?
 
I can't even imagine what it would be like having to worry about that every time I happen to go for a run in the dark.
 
But it's just one of the many examples Terrance shared.
 
To be honest, I felt anxious about this episode.
 
Not only do I feel ashamed I know so little about the specific challenges of the black running community, I also feel like a total noob talking about fashion (let alone couture).
 
But these are somehow topics I feel a strong pull towards.
 
So I'm grateful Terrance wanted to take the time to answer my questions.
 
Terrance is deeply connected to several communities of color and with his company D17 he aspires to do collaborations with the Nike's of the world to bring more awareness to this space.
 
Having his own clothing company, Terrance was also the perfect person for me to ask "Why oh why" those Salomon shoes are everywhere these days. From professional runners all the way to Paris Fashion Week.
 
The answer wasn't what I expected. But I just loved it.
 
I wish you an insightful episode.

Social links:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• Website

Nick & I both have had are most adventurous running year to date. 

 

In this episode we reflect on: 

• Everything we experienced this year 

• How our relationship to racing is changing 

• How we decide what races and adventures to go for 

• How we got better at balancing going hard vs backing off in training 

 

We also share our plans and ideas for 2024. 

 

A podcast, exactly like I love them. 

 

And let us know in the comments if you want us to record that lifestyle episode. 

Social links:
- Instagram
- Substack
- Website

Christine went from having a desk job to being an outdoor adventurer. 

 

It took courage to quit her job and she had to let go of layers of stories before she dared to call herself an "athlete" or "adventurer". 

 

Today, her courageous journey continues as she's letting go of her need to have "the perfect body" while breaking through the stigma of bleeding on trail. 

 

In this episode, she shares how she navigated & navigates each of these challenges. 

Social links:

Instagram

In this episode I talk about the urge people often have to choose sides and why I think you should avoid it.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

In todays episode I talk about being "lazy" and I give a new perspective about this topic.

Reach out on Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel or Instagram: @InTheZone.

Please share your comments and questions on Instagram or LinkedIn :)!

socials:

Instagram: @Kobeblondeel

Linkedin: @Kobe Blondeel

A quick overview the evening before running across Belgium.

socials:

Instagram: @kobeblondeel 

Website: www.kobeblondeel.com

How did Karel become the runner he is today? 

 

And how does he experience & navigate the challenges that are inevitable when running across countries, through deserts, and over mountain ranges for weeks on end? 

 

Those are the 2 main questions we explored in our conversation together. 

 

It's for anyone curious to learn more about the mindset behind some of world's toughest races & FKTs. 

 

I couldn't have thought of a better guest for our 100th episode. 

 

What a beautiful journey it has been already. 

 

Enjoy this one.

Social links:

• Instagram
• Coaching platform
• Website