Have you ever felt stressed because you have so much to do and yet you still want to make your health a priority? Have you ever felt like there’s too much to do to live a healthier lifestyle?
Chances are, you're nodding your head yes in agreement right now.
And this is where turning to professionals for personal health support is a normal step. However, finding reliable and useful health insights can be a challenge, hello Google rabbit hole.
If you're wondering how to find a health coach that is credible and can support your goals, you're stepping in the right direction.
According to the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaches, a health coach supports clients in activating internal strengths and external resources to make sustainable and healthy lifestyle behavior changes. [1].
So as a health coach, I play the role of navigator and accountability partner —all wrapped into one.
Additionally, I understand that finding a health coach you'll love is personal and can be complex, one you feel is right for you, someone who understands your goals and personality.
But how can you find a coach that's a good fit for you?
Keep calm and read on.
Table Of Contents
How to Find a Health Coach You'll Love?
Here are some simple tips to find a health coach.
1) Understanding Your Health Goals
Finding your right health coach can take a little bit of research. Understanding your health goals is a great initial step.
Have you reflected on what health goals you are hoping to achieve?
You should write down your health goals and areas where you want to make change. A single act like this can set the way for a dramatic change. This way you may look to find someone that specializes in the area of health you are looking to focus on.
But how do you find a health coach who can help you achieve all of your goals?
2) Research is Key
Research is key, they say, and when it comes to finding your health coach, this couldn't be truer.
When you start looking for a health coach, certifications and credentials can seem overwhelming at first. Yet, thinking about what is most important to you is also key. In my opinion starting with health coaches that are board certified (NBC-HWC credential) is a good first step to narrow down the pool then looking at the coach's specialization can help.
Here are some tips to get you started:
Ask friends and family for recommendations.
Check out local health clubs, gyms, and wellness centers.
Search online directories like National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coaches (NBC-HWCs)
Attend events where coaches will be speaking or presenting.
Use social media to connect with coaches in your area.
3) Experience Matters
Do you know how to ensure a coach's expertise complements your goals?
The theory is brilliant, but the real-life applications and scenarios are what truly counts.
What significant efforts have they made and what do their past clients say? Your best bet to find a health coach is by examining their track record.
4) Personality and Coaching Style
Have you heard the saying, "The vibe you get determines the tribe you keep"?
If you're seeking a balance of challenge and support, then don’t choose a coach that lets you slide easily.
As you consider personality and coaching style, it’s important to find a health coach who has a vibe you align with to support the building blocks of an effective coaching relationship.
5) Logistics and Accessibility
What if the ideal coach lives miles away? Or does your schedule clash? Do you want in person or virtual sessions?
Even with an ideal match, considering logistics and accessibility are a key factor to success.
Prefer in-person meetings, look for coaches in your area that offer in person sessions, prefer virtual for the flexibility? The coaches location matters less as long as the have the capability to host virtual sessions.
6) Trial Session
What if you could "try before you buy"?
Experience the golden opportunity through a trial session. You could use this as a chance to look past the superficial and determine compatibility.
You may resonate with your health coach, or you may realize they're not aligned with your expectations.
In either case, a demo session can be a powerful way to know your potential health coach before you make a long-term commitment. I offer 20 minute clarity calls for this exact reason, book a clarity call with me today!
7) Trust Your Gut
Let's not forget to trust your gut. You should be at peace with the coach that is going to to support your health journey.
Identifying the signs of a positive client-coach relationship could be the last detail you need.
Your Ideal Health and Wellness Coach
Imagine a world where you not only understand your health goals but also share them passionately. Where you meet every setback with compassion and celebrate every small victory.
This isn't a distant dream—your ideal health coach can help make it happen!
But how do you find this ideal coach?
What qualities should they have?
Here's a quick list
They're a good listener.
They're empathetic.
They're non-judgmental.
They're supportive.
They're willing to learn from their clients.
They're open-minded.
They're flexible in their approach to coaching.
They're passionate about helping people reach their goals.
Check out my other blog, what is a health coach?, where you can gain more insights into what makes my health coaching different, with 16 specific facts and a collection of my clients' success stories.
How to Find a Health Coach (FAQs)
How do I find a wellbeing coach?
Start your search with local directories and wellness centers. Your best bet for finding a wellbeing coach is to ask your community of friends, family, and work associates. You can also search online at nbhwc.org.
What is the difference between a Health Coach and a personal trainer?
A health coach focuses on your broader wellbeing supporting you in a holistic manner with your behavior change. Personal trainers concentrate on your physical fitness (strength, endurance, flexibility, etc.) to increase your physical performance.
How to choose a health coach?
Assess their competence and customer experiences, but go a step further – ponder the flow of your interactions. Their wellness perspective should invite you to learn more.
What do you look for in a health coach?
You'll assess credentials and experience, but also value a coach who can broaden your health perspectives and is willing to expand your health views.
What are some benefits of hiring a wellness coach?
A wellness coach can help you see the patterns in your life that prevent your progress. They can also help you identify your passions and follow through. They can keep you driven to remain inspired and responsible for your choices.
What questions should you ask your health coach?
What kind of programs do you offer? Am I expected to make any lifestyle changes? How do you deal with any obstacles or complications that your clients might experience? How often would we meet? How do you track progress? How do you measure success with your clients?
How do I hire a health coach?
Here is a step-by-step guide to hiring a health coach:
Identify your goals
Do your research and review their background.
Explore your options.
Review pricing and estimate your budget.
Meet with prospective coaches.
Decide on the best for for you
How to find and asses a coach?
Begin by discovering your true coaching needs. Check a coach's qualifications and how well they align with your principles. Examine their techniques and commitment to your growth.
Is a health coach worth it?
Yes, if you're committed to positive lifestyle changes, a health coach is a smart investment. An effective health coach supplies you with the tools and support that you need for stable and lasting life changes.
What to do next?
Since you now understand how to find a coach you'll love, first, clarify your desired outcomes.
What exactly do you want? Losing weight? Getting fit? Feeling healthier?
Think about it. The first step toward achieving your goal is to define it. And you don't have to walk it alone.
Like you, I've encountered barriers, but I found ways to break through them. You can schedule a call with me and I’ll help you get started.
Your goal is not merely a fantasy—it's a reachable place, and it's nearer than you imagine.
With gratitude,
Alexa
About the Author
Alexa Hanshaw
Alexa Hanshaw is a national board-certified health and wellness coach (NBC-HWC). She is also a stress management coach who helps women be the CEO of their stress. She empowers her clients to push past the confusion of the health and wellness industry to create lifestyle habits that bring them energy and work with their bodies instead of against it.
Join her free Facebook group, Be the CEO of Your Stress, and follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube for quick, easy & healthy tips on stress, health, fitness, nutrition, sleep, and how to stay mindful!