The Coaching Session That Doesn’t Always Sit Still

When people think about coaching, they usually picture two people sitting in a room having a conversation.

And sometimes that’s exactly what we do.

But in my coaching practice, I often take a slightly different approach. When it suits the client, we might go for a walk, get outside, or combine our conversation with movement.

It’s not about turning coaching into a fitness session. It’s about creating the right environment for clearer thinking, honest conversation, and progress.

And movement can make a big difference.

Why Movement Helps Us Think

Most of us have experienced this without even realising it.

Y

ou go for a walk to clear your head… and suddenly things start making more sense.Problems feel less overwhelming.Ideas come more easily.

There’s a reason for that.

Research highlighted by organisations like the NHS shows that regular physical activity can improve mood, reduce stress, and help manage conditions such as Anxiety and Depression.

Even moderate activity like walking can:

• Improve mental clarity

• Reduce stress and tension

• Boost mood and motivation

• Help with problem solving and creativity

When the body starts moving, the mind often follows.

Why Walking Side by Side Changes the Conversation

There’s another interesting benefit when coaching happens while walking.

When people sit face-to-face, the conversation can sometimes feel intense or formal.

When you walk side-by-side, something shifts.

The conversation often becomes more relaxed and natural. People tend to open up more easily, and discussions flow more freely.

That’s why many people find it easier to talk through big life questions while walking rather than sitting across a desk.

The Extra Benefit of Being Outdoors

Spending time outside also brings its own benefits.

Nature has a way of slowing things down. It helps reduce stress, quieten busy minds, and give people space to think.

When you're away from screens, noise and everyday pressures, it’s often easier to step back and look at things differently.

That perspective can be incredibly valuable in coaching.

How I Use This in My Coaching

Every client is different, and every coaching journey is different.

Some sessions take place online or sitting down where we can focus deeply on a particular challenge.

But when it feels right, we might take the conversation outside. That could be:

• A walk and talk coaching session

• Talking things through during time outdoors

• Simply changing the environment to create fresh thinking

The aim is always the same — helping clients gain clarity, build confidence, and move forward.

Sometimes that happens through deep conversation.

And sometimes it starts with simply putting one foot in front of the other and talking things through.

Coaching That Helps You Move Forward

Whether we’re sitting down or walking outside, the purpose of coaching is the same.

To help you:

• Get clear on what you really want

• Overcome the things holding you back

• Build confidence and belief

• Take practical steps forward

If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about your next steps, a conversation can often be the first step toward change.

And sometimes, that conversation is even better when we’re moving.