An introduction to outdoor coaching

Coaching outdoors opens up powerful new ways of connecting with the self, fostering creativity, expansive thinking, and self-awareness more than the typical office or online setting. Metaphor, sensory awareness, and the rhythm of movement all come into their own when coaching outdoors. 

From watching changes to a river or surrounding landscapes, letting the path lead a meandering journey, to being immersed in the seasons as they unfold, the changes in the landscape offer rich stimulus for coaching, offering new perspectives, whether on current challenges or reflections on new transitions.

Outdoor coaching might include using outdoor metaphors to prompt conversations that mirror our inner worlds. Such as the river, which can be a metaphor for patience, prompting questions like: How can you be more patient with your current challenges?

It could be the oak tree representing strong roots, stability and resilience, allowing conversations on how to establish stronger foundations, for example.Or the squirrel, who reminds us about preparedness as they gather acorns to see them through winter. Even cherry blossoms, which are fleeting, show us the importance of making the most of the moment, renewal and new beginnings, spring, and the arrival of warmer times.

Blue bells, too, are signs of ancient woodlands and show up as quite resilient, thriving in the shade. Hills offer perspective and a broader view from the top, offering the idea of stepping back and seeing the bigger picture. The coastline, which is ever-changing, can prompt conversations on change and adaptability. Equally, a walk through a woodland, a footpath, a trail, or even an urban street requires taking one step at a time and trusting the process, even when the destination is not entirely clear.

Using metaphors like these can be enormously powerful to help navigate our coaching paths and prompt coaching conversations. 

What is outdoor coaching?

Coaching can be thought of as a thoughtful partnership that helps clients maximise their potential – sometimes known, sometimes not – to take the next step, whether that is going left, right, or straight ahead. The coach’s role is to ask the right questions and, together with the client, guide and help navigate their journey.

Coaching outdoors is all of the above, except taken outside. For me, it often takes place where water is present, or among trees, fields, green plants, as well as animals and birds. It doesn’t have to be in rural or coastal settings – urban areas also present countless opportunities to draw inspiration, even blending the two.

Although the coaching happens outdoors, the setting doesn’t always have to be actively drawn upon. The surroundings themselves are freeing. It differs from enclosed areas like a room with four walls, a door, a window, and furniture. Being outside can help us reframe, broaden our perspective, and even spark creativity. Boundaries seem to subside, and the outdoors offers great opportunities to work with metaphors, drawing on what is around us to enhance the conversation.

How does outdoor coaching work?

There are several things a coach may think about when planning an outdoor session. The checklist below gives an idea of what those considerations might include for both clients and coaches:

Planning the route

Before any walk takes place outdoors, it is important to explore the route. This includes your coach considering the distance, terrain, potential hazards, and stopping points.

Having a conversation with the client beforehand

Your coach will want to understand your capacity and needs – what you're comfortable with and the timings. Will the session include a stop? Is the route accessible? It may not be suitable for all participants, so they will consider different fitness levels and needs, or build in alternative routes or emergency exits if needed. They will discuss how nature will be integrated into your sessions – will it play a subtle or vital role?

Checking in a day before

You may receive a check-in the day before to confirm meeting arrangements, share any weather updates and ensure the time and location are clear.

What to bring

Be mindful of the weather – appropriate clothing, footwear, and refreshments are essential, as well as a fully charged phone with a spare charger and a first aid kit, which your coach should have covered.

Respecting the environment

Your coach may consider what steps to take to minimise environmental impact (e.g., reducing waste, carpooling), leaving the space in better condition than you found it. 

Understanding the outdoors

Knowing who owns the land you plan to use should also be checked for any restrictions or permissions required.

Confidentiality

Your coach will consider where conversations take place and be mindful of confidentiality, especially if stopping for refreshments or in areas where others may overhear.

Tools and enhancements

Props may also be used to enhance the experience, such as nature-themed cards or natural objects found along the walk. The setting itself can also offer prompts – a coastline, river path, or even a quiet street can introduce themes that support reflection or allow conversations to unfold more organically.

Six benefits outdoor coaching offers 

Coaching can foster a growth mindset, and being outdoors can provide a great environment and setting for learning to do so. Nature gives us an opportunity to engage mind and body, unlocking potential and movement towards goals. I notice when walking, we think, our eyes move in a variety of directions, taking in a range of stimuli, signals for thought, which open up new options and actions. Below are six benefits to outdoor coaching:

Walking can bring challenges and growth

There are moments of tiredness, doubt, and hardship that provide insights for us to grow, adapt, and discover inner strength.

At those crossroads, we take steps towards transformation

When walking, we experience both the good and the bad; this can lead to personal growth, healing, and new ways of thinking and living. It opens up connections and fosters learning.

There are unexpected experiences

It can be sudden rain, a steep climb, or an animal; life is full of unforeseen events, both good and bad, that can significantly impact our experience. What do we see, and what perspective does this offer?

Letting go

The act of only carrying what is essential can be a metaphor for thinking about what we are carrying in our everyday lives and asking whether they are really needed. 

Trust and faith

A key element is learning to trust the path ahead, your own abilities, and the process, even when you do not know what to expect next.

Grounding

Just being in nature, or a view of it, can help us feel less stressed and better able to concentrate on things that matter to us. They are attractive settings to keep physically active, as well as opportunities for solace and respite.

Walking side by side, sharing experiences, and expanding horizons is the wisdom that outdoor coaching can bring. I’ve noticed there can be a gentle but powerful shift when coaching, the sky above us, the ground beneath us, and the river to our side. How, even in unclear times, the path ahead continues.

Are you at a crossroads? Do you have a problem to solve and are unsure how to? Stuck in a place but not sure what to do next? Outdoor coaching might be of support to you – reach out for support.