Study Shows Working with a Health Coach on the Rise

This summer, Civic Science analyzed how Americans are choosing to prioritize their health and wellness in a space that has been changed by Covid-19. Although some Americans opt to manage their wellness on their own, many are working with a heath coach.  

Working with a Health Coach is on the Rise  

 According to the article, 18% of respondents have used a health and wellness coach to achieve their goals, while another 18% plan to do so in the future. People aged 18-24 showed the greatest interest, with substantial interest from those aged 25-34 and those older than 55.  

When asked to choose three areas to improve their health, 60% of U.S. adults named physical fitness as number one, followed by improving sleep and nutrition. Mood and mental well-being were the fourth most common categories mentioned.  

Why Work with a Health Coach? 

So where does one seek out coaching? Usually, it’s the individual that seeks out services, however, some are able to utilize a health coach through their employer. Some spaces that offer health coaching are doctors’ offices, health clinics, gyms and health clubs.  

Michele Renee, DC, MAc, director of integrative care and associate professor at NWHSU comments on the article, “A couple of things stood out to me. First, I was struck by the wide range of people utilizing health coaching and the trend toward younger, lower income folks.”  

“This speaks to the value young adults are placing on establishing health habits earlier. Second, the trend toward using health coaching points to the fact that behavior change can be challenging! Knowing that one “should” do is much simpler than changing our behavior. A coach provides help to shine the light on each person’s unique pathway to success and cheers us on along the way.”  

Want to Become a Health Coach?  

Northwestern Health Sciences University offers a graduate certificate in integrative health and well-being Coaching designed for practicing healthcare providers and those looking to enter thehealth and wellness space.  

Students gain training to empower clients, build trust, increase clients’ intrinsic motivation, and support long term health behavior changes. NWHSU’s approach to coaching prioritizes putting the client in the driver’s seat so they can facilitate their path to wellness. The program is a 35-week online program that can be completed in less than one year or can be flexible to accommodate work or family life. 

Story by Kit Harlow, Chiropractic Student