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.