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What is Health Coaching? A Complete Beginner’s Guide
- Richard Johnson
- Aug 10
- 3 min read
Understanding Health Coaching
Health coaching is one of the fastest-growing professions in the UK — and for good reason.
It offers a personalised, practical way to help people improve their health, build sustainable habits, and prevent illness.
But what exactly is health coaching, how does it work, and why is it becoming so important in the UK’s healthcare landscape?
The Simple Definition
Health coaching is a collaborative process between a trained coach and a client, designed to:
Identify health and wellbeing goals.
Develop realistic, personalised action plans.
Provide ongoing support, encouragement, and accountability.
A health coach helps clients bridge the gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it, turning health intentions into long-term habits.
How Health Coaching Works
Health coaching isn’t about giving someone a one-size-fits-all diet or exercise plan. Instead, it’s about:
Assessment – Understanding a client’s current health, lifestyle, challenges, and goals.
Goal Setting – Defining clear, achievable objectives.
Planning – Creating a realistic, step-by-step strategy tailored to the client.
Support & Accountability – Helping the client stay on track through regular sessions and feedback.
Review & Adjust – Refining the plan as progress is made and new challenges arise.
Coaches often use motivational interviewing, behaviour change psychology, and positive reinforcement to help clients make changes that stick.
What Health Coaching Is Not
To understand health coaching fully, it’s helpful to clear up a few misconceptions:
It is not medical diagnosis or treatment.
It is not a substitute for a registered dietitian, doctor, or therapist.
It is not a quick-fix or short-term “health kick”.
It is not about imposing strict rules — it’s about finding what works for each client.
Instead, it complements other healthcare and wellbeing services, helping people turn professional advice into daily action.
The Areas Health Coaching Covers
Health coaches work with clients on a wide range of health and lifestyle areas, including:
Nutrition – Building healthier eating habits.
Physical Activity – Increasing daily movement and exercise.
Weight Management – Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.
Sleep Improvement – Developing better sleep routines.
Stress Management – Learning techniques to cope with stress and anxiety.
Chronic Condition Support – Helping people with diabetes, heart disease, or arthritis manage their health.
General Wellbeing – Improving energy, mood, and life balance.
Why Health Coaching Works
Health coaching is effective because it:
Personalises the approach – Plans are tailored to each person’s lifestyle and preferences.
Focuses on the whole person – Physical, emotional, and social wellbeing are all considered.
Empowers clients – People gain the skills and confidence to manage their health long-term.
Provides accountability – Regular check-ins keep people on track and motivated.
Is evidence-based – Research shows coaching can improve health outcomes across a range of conditions.
Who Can Benefit from Health Coaching?
Health coaching can help:
People wanting to prevent illness and improve long-term wellbeing.
Those struggling with lifestyle-related health issues.
Individuals with chronic conditions who want better self-management skills.
Busy professionals looking for ways to manage stress and boost energy.
Athletes seeking to optimise performance and recovery.
Older adults who want to stay mobile and independent.
Where Health Coaches Work
Qualified health coaches are employed in:
NHS and GP practices – Supporting patients in lifestyle change programmes.
Corporate wellness schemes – Improving staff wellbeing and productivity.
Gyms and fitness centres – Offering holistic health guidance.
Private practice – Working with individual clients or groups, in person or online.
Community health projects – Reaching those who need extra support.
Sports organisations – Supporting athletes’ overall wellbeing.
The Role of UKIHCA in Professional StandardsIn the UK, the UK & International Health Coaching Association (UKIHCA) is the gold standard for health coaching.
Membership ensures:
You have completed approved, high-quality training.
You work within a professional code of conduct.
You are recognised by clients and employers as a credible professional.
Becoming a Health Coach – Your Next Steps
If you’re considering a career in health coaching, the quality of your training matters.
Active Health Group (AHG) is one of the UK’s most established and respected training providers, offering UKIHCA-recognised courses that combine:
Comprehensive curriculum.
Flexible online learning.
Live tutor support.
Real-world application.
With over 25 years in the industry, AHG graduates work in the NHS, private practice, corporate wellness, and more.
Interested in becoming a UKIHCA-recognised health coach?
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