Exercise in the Wild: Reclaiming Movement Through Play and Exploration
Introduction
What does it mean to “exercise” in nature? In this episode, we (Wem and Lewis) explored the natural ways people move, stretch, and grow stronger in outdoor settings. From climbing trees to balancing on logs, we discussed how Forest School fosters physical activity in ways that are joyful, organic, and accessible to all.
Rethinking Exercise
Exercise is often seen as a chore—something we do to stay healthy rather than enjoy. But in the wild, movement takes on a whole new meaning. Wem shared how the natural environment invites spontaneous and playful movement, whether it’s jumping over puddles or crawling through undergrowth.
Lewis highlighted how this approach to physical activity contrasts with structured gym routines. “In the woods, movement is fluid and intuitive,” he said. “You’re not following a plan—you’re responding to the landscape.”
The Physical Benefits of Forest School
Forest School naturally promotes a wide range of physical activities, including:
Climbing and Balancing: Strengthens muscles and improves coordination.
Digging and Building: Enhances endurance and fine motor skills.
Running and Jumping: Boosts cardiovascular health.
Wem shared a story about a group of children who spent an afternoon creating an obstacle course using logs, ropes, and tyres. Not only did they engage in vigorous physical activity, but they also practised teamwork and problem-solving.
Making Movement Accessible
One of the most important aspects of exercise in Forest School is its inclusivity. The natural environment offers countless opportunities for movement that can be adapted to different abilities. Lewis explained how even simple actions like sitting on uneven ground or reaching for a branch engage the body in unique ways.
We also discussed the importance of choice, allowing participants to decide how and when they want to move. “Not everyone wants to climb trees, and that’s okay,” Wem noted. “The goal is to make movement enjoyable, not obligatory.”
The Joy of Playful Movement
In Forest School, exercise often looks like play. Running through the woods, balancing on logs, or building shelters doesn’t feel like “working out,” but it has the same benefits. Wem described these activities as “sneaky exercise”—fun and engaging ways to stay active without realising it.
We reflected on how this approach can transform attitudes toward physical activity, making it something people look forward to rather than dread.
How Nature Enhances Movement
The natural world adds an element of unpredictability to movement, challenging both body and mind. Lewis explained how navigating uneven terrain or climbing a wobbly tree forces participants to adapt, improving their balance, coordination, and problem-solving skills.
Wem also highlighted the sensory aspect of outdoor exercise. The feel of bark under your hands, the sound of leaves crunching underfoot, and the sight of dappled sunlight all enhance the experience, making movement more immersive and enjoyable.
Exercise Without Competition
Another key difference between traditional exercise and movement in Forest School is the absence of competition. Instead of focusing on winning or achieving a personal best, participants are encouraged to move for the sake of moving.
This non-competitive environment fosters a sense of freedom and self-expression. As Lewis put it, “It’s not about being the fastest or the strongest—it’s about enjoying your body and what it can do.”
Tips for Encouraging Natural Movement
If you want to incorporate more natural movement into your life or Forest School sessions, here are some ideas:
Create Challenges: Set up obstacle courses or scavenger hunts that require different types of movement.
Explore Together: Go on group adventures that involve climbing, crawling, and balancing.
Make It Fun: Turn movement into a game, like racing leaf boats down a stream or hopping from rock to rock.
Be Inclusive: Offer a variety of activities to suit different abilities and preferences.
Conclusion
Exercise in the wild is about more than physical fitness—it’s about reconnecting with your body, the environment, and the joy of movement. By embracing playful, inclusive, and natural ways to move, Forest School offers a fresh perspective on what it means to stay active.
Curious to hear more? Listen to the full episode for insights, stories, and tips on reclaiming movement through play and exploration.