Outdoor coaching
25th September 2025
In an age dominated by digital devices, endless emails, and virtual meeting fatigue, more people are discovering the transformative impact of stepping outside—not just for a walk, but for real, meaningful change. Outdoor coaching blends personal or professional development with the healing, energising power of nature.
But what exactly is outdoor coaching, and why is it so effective?
What Is Outdoor Coaching?
Outdoor coaching is a form of one-to-one or group coaching that takes place outside the traditional office or meeting room setting. It moves the coaching process into natural environments—parks, woodlands, coastal paths, or even urban green spaces—where clients and coaches walk, talk, reflect, and explore goals together.
While the core principles of coaching remain—goal setting, active listening, powerful questioning—the change of environment makes a profound difference.
Why Nature Works
Research consistently shows that being in nature:
- Reduces stress and cortisol levels
- Boosts creativity and problem-solving
- Improves mood and mental clarity
- Encourages open and honest conversation
When combined with coaching, these benefits are amplified. The natural environment often helps people drop their guard, think more clearly, and connect more deeply with their values and aspirations.
As one client put it:
“I came for coaching to get clarity. I left with a clear head, a plan, and a renewed connection to myself—just from walking and talking outside.”
Benefits of Outdoor Coaching
Here’s why more individuals, leaders, and teams are choosing coaching in the wild:
1. Movement Sparks Momentum
Walking side-by-side, rather than sitting face-to-face, can make coaching conversations feel less confrontational and more collaborative. It also activates both sides of the brain, enhancing creativity and perspective-taking.
2. Nature as Co-Coach
The environment itself becomes part of the process. A winding path, a fallen tree, or a dramatic vista often mirrors the journey the client is on, sparking metaphors and insight that a sterile office simply can’t provide.
3. Reduced Pressure, Increased Presence
Outdoors, distractions fade. The phone is in the pocket. There’s no desk, no screen, just open space. This creates a calmer, more grounded atmosphere that fosters reflection and presence.
4. Physical and Mental Health Boosts
It’s not just about mindset—outdoor coaching encourages physical movement, fresh air, and a break from screen time. Clients often report feeling lighter and more energized after sessions.
Who Is Outdoor Coaching For?
Outdoor coaching suits a wide range of people, including:
- Professionals seeking clarity, balance, or direction in their careers
- Leaders looking to develop authentic leadership styles
- Teams wanting to improve communication and collaboration
- Individuals going through transitions or burnout
- Creatives and entrepreneurs needing space to think
No hiking boots required—just a willingness to step outside your comfort zone and into a more expansive perspective.
How to Get Started
Thinking about giving it a try? Here’s how to begin:
- Contact me to discuss the process
- Dress for the weather—outdoor coaching happens in most conditions, rain or shine, wind and hail if you live in Yorkshire!
- Set intentions—know what you want to explore or change.
- Let nature lead—be open to the unexpected insights that may arise.
Final Thoughts
In a world that moves fast and demands more, outdoor coaching offers a chance to slow down, reconnect, and grow—with the support of a coach and the wisdom of nature itself.
