Battersea Park is one of South West London's best spots for outdoor training — and as a personal trainer based in Battersea, I use it with clients every week.
Here are five exercises I love programming into park sessions:
1. Bench Step-Ups
The benches along the riverside path are perfect for step-ups. They build single-leg strength and are brilliant for runners or anyone rehabbing knee issues.
How to do it: Place one foot on the bench, drive up through your heel, and fully extend at the top. 3 sets of 10 each leg.
2. Incline Press-Ups on the Railings
The railings near the bandstand are ideal for incline push-ups — a great option if you're building up to full press-ups or working postnatally.
How to do it: Hands shoulder-width on the railing, lower your chest towards it, push back. 3 sets of 12.
3. Walking Lunges on the Main Path
The wide paths near the Peace Pagoda give you plenty of space for walking lunges — one of the best lower body exercises you can do anywhere.
How to do it: Step forward, drop your back knee towards the ground, push through the front heel. 3 sets of 12 each leg.
4. Sprint Intervals by the Lake
The flat path around the boating lake is perfect for sprint intervals. These torch calories and build cardiovascular fitness fast.
How to do it: Sprint for 20 seconds, walk for 40 seconds. Repeat 8–10 times.
5. Plank Hold on the Grass
Find a flat patch near the children's zoo area and hold a plank. Simple, effective, and great for core stability — especially important for postnatal recovery.
How to do it: Hold for 30–60 seconds. Repeat 3 times.
Why Train Outdoors in Battersea Park?
Training outdoors isn't just about fresh air. Research shows that exercising in green spaces reduces stress and improves motivation. Battersea Park gives you space, variety, and a beautiful setting — all without a gym membership.
Want a Personalised Park Workout?
I offer 1-to-1 personal training sessions in Battersea Park and across SW11. Every session is tailored to your goals, whether that's fat loss, postnatal recovery, or general fitness.