Never Do This as an Outdoor PT: Client-Killing Mistakes to Avoid

If you’re running outdoor PT sessions, avoid these mistakes like the plague. They’ll lose you clients fast.

This is the final instalment of our 3-part series: The Outdoor PT Playbook. If you’re just joining us, start with:
Episode 1 – How to Coach Outdoors with Minimal Kit (And Still Get Amazing Results)
Episode 2 – How to Set Up and Run a Successful Outdoor PT Business

Outdoor training can be your biggest differentiator as a personal trainer—or the fastest way to look unprofessional if you don’t get the details right.

This blog breaks down the most common outdoor PT mistakes—coaching, business, and branding—and how to avoid them so your sessions are safe, high-impact, and worthy of premium pricing.

1. Under-Delivering Due to Lack of Equipment or Planning

Just because you’re outside doesn’t mean you get a free pass on quality.

Mistake:

Turning up with one kettlebell and hoping for the best.

The Fix:

• Plan your session structure like you would in a gym
• Design scalable circuits with progressions and regressions
• Use time-based methods (EMOM, AMRAP, ladders) for versatility
• Use the environment creatively (hills, stairs, benches, trees)

Outdoor clients still expect professional, results-focused sessions—not just an off-the-cuff workout!

2. Making Clients Feel Uncomfortable in Public Spaces

Mistake:

Ignoring the social anxiety some clients feel training outdoors—especially in busy parks or around strangers.

The Fix:

• Choose quieter locations or off-peak times
• Position sessions facing inward or in semi-private spots
• Check in with your clients about how they feel during sessions

Comfort = confidence. Confidence = retention.

3. Not Progressing Clients Over Time

Just because you’re using bands and bodyweight doesn’t mean your clients shouldn’t be progressing.

Mistake:

Repeating the same circuits week after week with no change in intensity or volume.

The Fix:

• Track progress through reps, time, load, or technique
• Create a 6- to 12-week progression plan
• Use testing weeks or challenge sessions to keep clients motivated

Your outdoor programme should still follow principles of progressive overload, even if you’re not using barbells.

4. Being Too Casual or Unstructured

Mistake:

Letting sessions feel like a social meet-up rather than a structured coaching experience.

The Fix:

• Start with a clear warm-up, main session, and cool-down
• Have a clipboard or phone-based session plan
• Use a timer and visual markers to manage flow
• Maintain strong coaching presence and posture

Outdoor sessions should still look, feel, and flow like pro-level coaching—not an impromptu jog around the park.

5. Failing to Set Boundaries in Public Spaces

Mistake:

Letting passers-by interrupt, dogs join in, or clients turn up late because “it’s casual.”

The Fix:

• Create invisible “walls” with cones or markers
• Start and finish on time—no matter what
• Set clear expectations for behaviour, punctuality, and focus
• Know how to politely handle interruptions without breaking flow

You may be in a public space, but it’s still a private service. Respect that—and your clients will too.

6. Weak Branding or Messaging

Mistake:

Not clearly communicating what makes you different—or treating outdoor training like a temporary side hustle.

The Fix:

• Build your brand around the outdoor experience
• Make your messaging about mental health, freedom, flexibility
• Share photos of sessions in action, not just stock fitness images
• Name your service or packages (e.g. “6-Week Stronger Outside Challenge”)

If you want to charge premium rates, you need to look and sound like a premium coach—even outdoors.

7. No Systems = Inconsistent Experience

Mistake:

Not having repeatable systems in place for onboarding, programming, or marketing.

The Fix:

• Use digital forms for onboarding, consent, and assessments
• Set up booking links or group scheduling tools
• Have templates for circuits, sessions, and warm-ups
• Track client progress and feedback

Systems = professionalism. Professionalism = trust. Trust = more clients and better retention.

Watch on Youtube: Never Do This as an Outdoor PT: Client-Killing Mistakes to Avoid

Listen to the Podcast: Never Do This as an Outdoor PT: Client-Killing Mistakes to Avoid

Final Thoughts

Being an outdoor PT isn’t just a “fun” version of gym training—it’s a chance to offer a transformational, highly personal experience. But only if you treat it like a serious business.

Avoid the casual coach trap. Be the outdoor trainer who delivers world-class results with structure, clarity, and intention.

Ready to Build a Thriving Outdoor PT Business?

If you want to turn your passion for coaching into a powerful, profit-generating business, you need more than just great sessions—you need a system.

Our Bulletproof Business Course teaches you how to:

• Attract your ideal clients

• Set up premium offers (including outdoor PT)

• Market yourself without feeling salesy

• Build systems for long-term success

Included in our Advanced and Elite Packages—alongside your qualification.
This isn’t just about getting certified. It’s about getting paid, getting noticed, and making fitness your full-time career.

Learn more about the Bulletproof Business Course and take the first step toward a scalable, stress-free fitness business today.

Search for:

Subscribe to our Fitness Articles

Expert tips and insights tailored to fitness enthusiasts aspiring to become professionals and coaches looking to grow their fitness business. From training advice to business strategies, our content is designed to inspire, educate, and help you succeed in the fitness industry.

Subscribe