A wellness coach is a person who works with individuals to help them develop a healthy lifestyle that includes healthy eating and exercise habits, stress management, good sleep practices, and an overall positive outlook on life. This type of coaching has been a popular addition to many health programs in the workplace, as it can improve employee morale and performance, and can benefit company culture as well. The coaching industry is currently unregulated, but some coaches choose to get certified to build a strong skill set and support the needs of their clients.
A wellness coaching program usually involves a combination of one-on-one sessions, group coaching classes, and self-guided learning modules. The training is designed to teach students how to use a variety of tools and techniques to help their clients develop healthier habits and mindsets, while also encouraging them to build their confidence in the areas of their coaching practice.
The primary focus of a wellness coach is helping their clients to find ways to make sustainable behavior change happen in their lives, based on goals they have selected themselves. They provide an objective, supportive, and motivational environment to encourage their clients to take a holistic approach to their lives. They work in partnership with their clients to create an action plan for sustainable lifestyle change.
Many wellness coaches offer a flexible schedule, which can be appealing to those with busy lives or families. They often ask their clients to complete “homework” between meetings, such as journaling or tracking their progress in an online app. They may also work with clients for several months at a time, and are responsible for holding them accountable to the goals they have set.
Wellness coaches can work in a variety of settings, including gyms, health food stores, and wellness centers. They can also be found working in collaboration with personal trainers, nutritionists/dietitians, or doctors’ offices. They are a great supplement to these types of services, as they can focus on the specific behaviors that will lead to long-term success in health and fitness, breaking them down into manageable, achievable steps.
People who choose to become a wellness coach are typically very passionate about health and nutrition. They should have a good understanding of the science behind different diets and nutritional strategies, as well as an ability to communicate effectively with their clients. They should also be able to stay up-to-date with the latest research and developments in the field of wellness coaching. In some cases, it is possible to begin a career in this field without a formal degree program, though many choose to complete a health sciences or nutrition-related bachelor’s or master’s degree after obtaining their certification. Many coaches also participate in seminars, retreats, and networking events to gain experience in the industry before seeking out clients.