What Does a Nutrition Coach Do, Exactly?
When you become a nutrition coach, you’ll work with clients of all ages and fitness levels to help them identify and reach their ideal wellness. While there are many wellness goals that fit everyone, some are more tailored to specific life factors or fitness needs.
You might recommend specific exercises or create custom nutrition plans for weight loss. Or, you could help clients understand the pros and cons of different diets and how to choose nutrient-dense foods that meet their needs.
Each client is unique, so you’ll create one-on-one relationships to support them on their wellness journey.
How to Get Started as a Nutrition Coach
Along with an interest in health and wellness, you’ll want a strong fitness level and a good understanding of nutrition basics. You’ll build on your knowledge during training to guide your clients to better health. Educational requirements vary but typically start with a high school diploma or GED.
MedCerts Nutrition Coach Training and Certification
With the 18-week MedCerts Personal Trainer and Nutrition Coach program, you’ll take four core courses:
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Professionalism in Allied Health (2 weeks)
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Introduction to Human Anatomy and Medical Terminology (6 weeks)
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NASM’s Essentials of Personal Fitness Training (6 weeks)
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NASM’s Essentials of Nutrition Coaching (4 weeks)
Each course teaches you a different component of the program. In Professionalism in Allied Health, you’ll learn the soft skills needed for healthcare settings, such as office behavior, cultural and diversity bias, medical ethics and proper communication. The Introduction to Human Anatomy and Medical Terminology course gives a solid understanding of the human body systems, medical terminology and sensory organs. You’ll learn with 3D and augmented reality simulations for better recall.
Two additional courses follow the National Academy of Sports Medicine’s (NASM) framework. For Essentials of Personal Fitness Training, you’ll use the Optimum Performance Training™ model to develop custom fitness plans, interpret fitness results and help clients improve behavioral habits. In the Essentials of Nutrition Coaching course, you’ll learn about nutrition science and how to apply these practices to people of all ages and economic levels. The course teaches how to improve body composition, fitness and overall health through nutrition and dietary changes.
After completing the MedCerts program, students will test for the Nutrition Coach Certification (CNC) from the National Academy of Sports Medicine. This certification requires renewal every two years. Along with the Certified Nutrition Coach (CNC) credentials, you may wish to double your certifications and sit for the Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) certification.
Turn Your Passion for Nutrition and Fitness Into a Rewarding Career
Are you eager to get started as a nutrition coach? MedCerts is ready to help! After completing the Personal Trainer and Nutrition Coach program and certification, you’ll be ready to share your passion with clients across your city and beyond.
