Training on Trails is my outdoor fitness community on Vancouver's North Shore: trail running, beach training and one to one coaching in the forests and along the shoreline. I'm a certified trainer and coach, and I run every session myself. No gym, no mirrors, no one watching you but the herons.
I'm in nature every day. It's my medicine. It lifts your energy and clears your mind, and I'd love to share it with you.
Mostly women 45 and up. Absolute beginners welcome. Everyone welcome.
Run when you can, walk if you have to,
That's me, being fearless
Small groups, real trails and beaches, and me at every single session. You always know exactly who you're getting.
Your first session is free, whichever one you pick. Send me a message and just show up.
A different North Shore trail every week, and a small group that waits for each other. We use chi running technique, so you move lightly instead of pounding, and your knees will thank you for it. Two groups, pick the one that sounds like you.
Wednesdays 9am · 7-week course
In this course we explore the trails and practise the right running technique, and we talk about trail etiquette along the way. We are not fast. It's fun, and it's all about discovering the beautiful trails of the North Shore.
Every week we run a little further. The first session starts with a 3 km trail run, with lots of breaks and regrouping moments. The location changes every week, and every session has a small theme and a training schedule for the rest of your week.
Do you like running and want a new challenge? This one is for you.
Tuesdays 9am · every week
Trail running again, with new ideas, new routes and new lessons waiting. This group is for everyone who loves to run the beautiful trails of the North Shore and already has a bit of running experience.
Every Tuesday a new trail run: different routes, new challenges, 5 to 10 km. The first two runs of each block are a little shorter while we get going.
Not sure which group is yours? Ask me, I'll tell you straight.
I often hear people say, "I'm not a real runner." We are born to run. We're all runners, some just run faster than others, that's all. What matters is how you run. So why not run effortlessly, and joyfully?
Every week, a bit more distance on the Ambleside seawall, and every week a running theme: lots on technique, and on how to make your run more fun. One lesson a week with me, plus homework, two short runs on your own. It's not trail running, and we stay mainly around Ambleside.
After seven weeks you can run 5 km without a break. You'll love running, and you'll know everything you need to keep your own runs fun and injury free. Many carry on to the Ambleside Parkrun afterwards. Some just carry on to coffee.
Tuesdays 5pm · Ambleside seawall · 0 to 5 km
Thursday or Friday mornings we do cardio and strength on the sand at Ambleside or Dundarave. Breathe, move, and enjoy your workout, outside. Some weeks there's a swim afterwards. The swim is optional. The laughing is not.
Start where you are and work with what you have. We'll set goals together and raise your standards for yourself, because your mindset makes all the difference. Training on Trails is for everybody. It starts with being willing to take the first step. So come.
Thursdays or Fridays 9am · Ambleside or Dundarave beach
Proper personal training with a certified coach, except the ceiling is the sky. Customised programming and someone in your corner, with the mood lift that only comes from moving outside.
This is where I do my best work with people building back after a health challenge, polishing their running technique, or training for something big.
Curious? Just ask me about it
Tell me a little about where you're starting from. I'll tell you which group fits and where we're meeting that week. No forms, no commitment.
Runners you don't mind getting muddy and a rain jacket. That's the full kit list. I'll introduce you to the group and we start gently, always.
By the end you'll know everyone's names and probably their dogs' names. The first one costs you nothing. Fair warning: it's a bit addictive.
Give this gift of adventure to yourself. Beautiful hikes in the mountains and forests around Pemberton, and one or two nights in a Swiss cabin on the meadows. Every retreat is different, with new adventures and activities each time.
The office view
Home for the night
Farm food, obviously
Join a planned getaway, or customise one for your own group. No two retreats are the same. Lovely for birthdays, celebrations and get-togethers.
Out with the group
I'm a certified personal trainer and coach, and I run every session here myself. I'm Dutch, so I'll be straight with you: you don't need another gym membership. You need fresh air, good company, and someone who makes you laugh while you work a little harder than you meant to.
I've been through cancer, I am a cancer thriver, and it taught me more about health than either of my degrees. It's a big part of why I coach the way I do: gently, outdoors, and for the long run.
Send me a message and tell me a little about where you're starting from, and I'll point you at the right group and tell you where we're meeting this week.
Say hi to HelmyPS: bring a friend. More fun, less scary.
