How to Set Up and Run a Successful Outdoor PT Business

Before you run a single bootcamp in the park—read this first. These are the essentials every outdoor PT needs to know to grow a business that’s professional, profitable, and legally sound.

This is Episode 2 of our 3-part blog series: The Outdoor PT Playbook. If you missed Episode 1, check it out here: How to Coach Outdoors with Minimal Kit (And Still Get Amazing Results)
It’s packed with practical programming ideas and coaching strategies for training outside with just bands, kettlebells, and a whole lot of creativity.

Running personal training sessions outdoors can give you more freedom, variety, and impact—but without the right systems in place, it can also become chaotic. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to set up your outdoor PT business properly, from permits to programming.

1. Do I Need Insurance or a Permit to Train Clients Outdoors?

Yes.
If you’re training clients in public spaces like parks, beaches, or woodland areas, you need to:

✅ Have public liability insurance that covers outdoor training
✅ Check with your local authority or council—many require a permit or booking for commercial use of public land
✅ Respect local by-laws and consider park users—especially in busy or shared spaces

Pro Tip: Keep a printed or digital copy of your insurance and permit with you in case you’re ever challenged.

2. How to Find and Secure a Location

You need a space that is:

1. Accessible (parking, toilets nearby)
2. Safe (flat ground, minimal trip hazards, well-lit if used early/late)
3. Consistent (not overly busy or frequently closed off)

Where to look:

• Local parks or recreation grounds

• School fields (with permission)

• Beaches or green belt land (if allowed)

• Private land or gardens (great for premium 1:1s)

Tip: Consider offering to partner with local councils, schools, or businesses to secure regular access in return for a small fee or community value.

3. Running Group vs 1:1 Outdoor Sessions

1:1 Training

• Easier to manage logistically

• Personalised experience = higher price point

• Great for rehab, strength coaching, or bespoke programming

Group Sessions (Bootcamps, Circuits, etc.)

• Lower price per person, higher volume = more scalable

• Social proof + energy = higher retention

• Needs structure and systems for managing multiple clients safely

Key Considerations:

• Keep a sign-in/register system

• Provide clear instructions for all levels

• Use scalable formats like circuits, AMRAPs, team challenges

4. Admin Systems and Safety Checks You Need

Don’t wing it—treat it like a real business. Here’s what you need behind the scenes:

• PAR-Q forms and informed consent
• Risk assessments (weather, surfaces, injury risk, etc.)
• Digital booking system (e.g. Calendly, Ticket Tailor, Eventbrite)
• Client onboarding forms with goals, limitations, and preferences
• First aid kit and emergency protocol
• Contingency plan for bad weather (reschedule or move online)

Tip: Keep everything mobile-ready and accessible on your phone or tablet when coaching in the field.

5. Coaching Without Mirrors or Machines

Without gym mirrors, machines, or rigs—your coaching has to be sharp.

• ️‍️Use clear, simple demonstrations
• Cue based on external focus (“push the floor away”) rather than technical jargon
• Use audio cues and visual markers to manage flow in group settings
• Encourage partner feedback for form checks in group sessions
• ‍Move around and observe from all angles

Bonus: The natural environment demands better body awareness, which actually helps improve movement quality over time.

What Should I Do When the Weather’s Terrible?

Bad weather doesn’t mean bad business—if you prepare properly.

Three options:

1. Provide rainproof shelter (like a pop-up gazebo for kit or stretching)

2. Have an indoor alternative (hall, garage gym, local studio)

3. Move sessions online via Zoom—especially for mobility or strength sessions

Set client expectations upfront with a clear cancellation policy, and make sure sessions are safe even if damp or cold.

Tip: Branded waterproofs, cones, and kettlebells look pro—and show you’re ready to coach in all seasons.

How Do I Price and Package Outdoor PT?

Outdoor PT is still premium coaching—don’t undervalue it just because it’s not in a gym.

Pricing Tips:

• Consider block bookings with discounts to improve retention

• Charge more for 1:1 customisation and less for group formats

• Include value-adds like progress tracking, weekly check-ins, or nutritional guidance

Packaging Examples:

• 6-week fat loss bootcamp

• “Train with Nature” PT package (1:1 coaching + outdoor home workouts)

• Corporate outdoor fitness for local businesses

Marketing Yourself as an Outdoor Specialist

Your brand should reflect your outdoor USP. Show people that you’re not just a PT—you’re a coach who leverages the power of the outdoors to help clients transform.

Content ideas:

• Time-lapse clips of your sessions setting up

• Reels showing your favourite outdoor exercises

• Client testimonials post-session

• Instagram Stories when you’re setting up in the rain = credibility builder

Messaging tips:

• “Stronger. Fitter. Outside.”

• “Train hard, breathe deep.”

• “Escape the gym. Transform in nature.”

Highlight benefits like:

• No gym membership needed

• Fresh air + functional training

• Community vibe in group sessions

Watch on YouTube: How to Set Up and Run a Successful Outdoor PT Business

Listen on the Podcast – How to Set Up and Run a Successful Outdoor PT Business

Final Thoughts

Running a successful outdoor PT business is about more than showing up with a kettlebell and stopwatch.
You need systems, safety, and structure. But once you’ve got those foundations in place, you’ll have the freedom to coach how you want—while delivering unforgettable experiences that keep clients coming back.

Ready to Take It Further?

Want to level up your coaching and grow your outdoor fitness business?
Check out our Level 3 Personal Trainer Course or Level 4 Strength & Conditioning Qualification at Storm Fitness Academy.

And don’t forget to subscribe to the Storm Fitness Academy Podcast for more practical tips to grow your fitness career.

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