Park People: Hester Gaylard, Wellness with Hester

From creating a welcoming space for all fitness levels to championing the benefits of outdoor exercise, Hester shares how she is helping people reconnect with movement, fresh air and each other in our latest Park People interview.

Hi Hester! Can you tell us a bit about Wellness with Hester?

Hester’s Outdoor Fitness & Lifestyle company offers outdoor group fitness classes, personal training and feel-good wellness retreats across South Oxfordshire.

It all began just after COVID, when I felt people were really craving connection, movement and longing for more time in the fresh air. I’m incredibly proud that, what started as a small group meeting in a field has grown into a vibrant and supportive community.

Throughout, my guiding principle has always been a simple one: get outside, enjoy nature and move your body in a way that feels good. 

There’s no pressure and no judgement in the sessions. It’s a welcoming space where people of all ages and abilities feel comfortable. We also don’t just train together. We chat, we laugh, and we always stay after class for a coffee and a catch-up.

What inspired you to pursue a career in fitness?

I wasn’t especially sporty at school. I was pretty average, to be honest! But in my late teens I discovered that fitness could be enjoyable. It became my way to disconnect, unwind and reset. 

I started going to local classes and thought, do you know what, I could do this myself.

After sixth form, I got work experience in a local gym, which turned into an apprenticeship. That’s when I realised that being a personal trainer isn’t just about loving fitness, it’s also about empathy and connection, two things I’ve always been drawn to. 

I’ve also always liked the idea of running my own business, so it felt like the perfect fit to bring that all together.

Have you always wanted to start your own company?

I’ve always loved the idea of working for myself. When I was younger, I imagined opening a bakery, which is still a big passion of mine. I enjoy the freedom and creativity that comes with running my own business and I find it really motivating to be responsible for its success.

Of course, it’s not always straightforward. There are highs and lows and I’m constantly learning what works and what doesn’t.

What does your day-to-day look like?

No two days are ever quite the same, but I really enjoy the ever-changing nature of the role. Most days include at least one outdoor group class and a few one-to-one sessions, either in my home studio or at a client’s house.

As well as focusing on others, I always try to make time to move my own body too, usually with weight training, Pilates, running or walking. The rest of the day is often spent planning sessions, working on client programmes, marketing or catching up on admin.

What’s your favourite part of the job?

Without a doubt, the people are the best part. I love getting to know them and hearing their stories but most of all, I love seeing the progress they make and how movement improves their confidence and wellbeing. 

A simple message like “Thanks for today… I feel amazing” completely makes my day.

Can you tell us more about why you choose to run classes outdoors instead of indoors?

I’ve always felt happiest outside. I grew up in the countryside and never let the weather stop me getting into the great outdoors. Even on days when I feel a bit low, being outside lifts my mood straight away.

While I’ve enjoyed using gyms myself, I found that a lot of people feel uncomfortable in that environment. It can be intimidating, overwhelming and full of mirrors, which doesn’t help if you’re struggling with confidence.

Outside, everything feels different. You’re in an open and calming space, surrounded by nature. It helps people relax and often makes the session fly by. There are also plenty of proven benefits to exercising outdoors. It can improve sleep, boost vitamin D levels, calm the nervous system and increase energy. It’s even recommended by the NHS!

What do you do when you don’t feel like exercising and do you have any tips for those looking to be more active?

On the days I’m not feeling it, I keep it simple. I’ll go for a short walk or do ten minutes of stretching. 

That’s usually enough to get me going and once I start moving, I often want to do more.

If you’re booked into a class but feel unmotivated (especially if the weather isn’t great), having a class buddy really helps. Knowing someone else is going can give you that extra push. I also run WhatsApp groups for all my classes and a quick message there often encourages someone to come along.

Above all, however, my biggest tip is to be kind on yourself and start small. 

One short workout a week is enough to build momentum, then you can gradually increase from there. Don’t aim for four sessions straight away because it can be demoralising if you miss them. 

Also, try to spend at least 20 minutes outside every day. It can make a big difference, especially if your routine is mostly indoors.

Can you tell us about what you do at Milton Park and why you enjoy working there?

Every Thursday at midday, I run a “Wellness with Hester” class at Milton Park. We start with a gentle walk, then move into a Pilates-inspired bodyweight session and we always finish with a coffee and one of my homemade bakes.

I absolutely love working at Milton Park. The group and facilities are brilliant. We always have a good laugh and it’s lovely seeing people from different offices building friendships through the class.

Having spent most of my time in open fields, I really enjoy the buzz at Milton Park. There’s a great atmosphere and we’re lucky to have lovely outdoor spaces like the lagoons, which we often use for classes. The only challenge is trying not to get in the way of the geese!

Learn more about Wellness with Hester at Milton Park

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