The Surprising Benefits of Training Outside: Outdoors for Pilates and Beyond

When we think of outdoor workouts, activities like running, cycling, or boot camp sessions usually come to mind. But what about Pilates? This mindful movement practice, often associated with the calm serenity of a studio, might seem an unlikely candidate for the great outdoors. However, there's something truly magical about bringing your mat outside and blending the principles of Pilates with the natural elements around us.

As a Pilates instructor who loves the outdoors, I’ve experienced firsthand the transformative power of training outside. Just this past Saturday, our morning Pilates class took place in a beautiful park. The air was crisp, the grass was dewy, and there was an electric charge in the atmosphere. The sky started off clear, but as we moved through our exercises, rain gently began to fall. Some might see this as an interruption, but for us, it was a touch of magic.

Pilates is all about connection – connecting breath with movement, mind with body. But when you take your practice outside, there’s an additional layer to this connection: mind, body, and nature. This triad creates a holistic experience that’s incredibly grounding and refreshing.

That rainy Saturday morning, as we lay on our mats and felt the raindrops lightly kiss our skin, there was a moment of collective stillness and awe. The rain wasn’t a disruption; it was a reminder of the beauty and unpredictability of nature. It added an unexpected element to our routine that invited us to be fully present and embrace whatever came our way.


Training outside isn’t just for high-energy sports. Pilates, yoga, dance – any activity that you wouldn't typically consider moving outside – can benefit immensely from a natural setting. Here’s why:

1. Enhanced Mindfulness and Focus. The natural environment encourages mindfulness. When practicing Pilates outdoors, you become acutely aware of your surroundings – the feel of the earth beneath you, the breeze against your skin, the sounds of birds or rustling leaves. This heightened awareness naturally draws you into a deeper state of focus, enhancing your practice.

2. Improved Mood and Mental Clarity: Numerous studies have shown that spending time outdoors reduces stress, anxiety, and depression. The combination of mindful movement and nature’s calming presence can elevate your mood and bring mental clarity. That’s why the light rain during our class felt more like a gift than an inconvenience. It was a gentle reminder to stay calm and adapt – both on the mat and in life.

3. A New Kind of Physical Challenge: Training outside introduces new variables – uneven terrain, wind resistance, or even rain. For Pilates, this means engaging stabilising muscles in ways you might not in a controlled studio environment. It challenges your body in new ways, enhancing balance, coordination, and strength. Even a slippy mat can help!

4. A Deeper Sense of Community: There’s something about being outdoors that fosters a sense of togetherness. That Saturday morning, as we continued our practice in the rain, there was an unspoken camaraderie among us. We were all in it together, sharing a unique experience that bonded us beyond the usual class routine. It was fun and we all smiled ear to ear. 

5. Connecting with the Elements: Nature adds a sensory element to your practice that’s impossible to replicate indoors. Feeling the warmth of the sun, the coolness of the grass, or the touch of raindrops can be incredibly invigorating. These experiences remind us that we are part of a larger ecosystem, promoting a sense of gratitude and presence.

So, how can you incorporate the outdoors into your Pilates practice? Here are a few tips:

- Choose a Scenic Spot: Find a quiet, scenic location like a park, beach, or garden where you can lay down your mat. Make sure it's a spot where you feel comfortable and inspired.

- Be Prepared for the Elements: Bring a towel, sunscreen, water, and maybe even a hat. Embrace the unpredictability – whether it's a breeze or a light drizzle, let nature add a new dimension to your practice. We are in Scotalnd so a waterproof and before long we will be wearting gloves!

- Start with the Basics: Begin with simple exercises that ground you, like breathwork or gentle stretches. Then, move into more dynamic movements as you become comfortable with your surroundings.

- Stay Present: Take moments to pause and take in your surroundings. Feel the earth beneath you, listen to the sounds around you, and let these elements deepen your practice. Breatihng in the air, looking at the sky and feeling the grass as you move.

Taking your Pilates practice outside might seem unconventional, but it opens up a world of benefits. It connects us not just with our bodies, but with the earth itself. It’s a reminder that life – like nature – is full of surprises, and sometimes, the most unexpected moments are the ones that leave the biggest impact.

So, the next time you plan your Pilates session, consider stepping outside. Let nature become your studio, the sky your ceiling, and the earth your floor. And if a little rain comes your way? Embrace it. After all, it might just be the magic you need.