What do Lifestyle Coaches Do?
Lifestyle Coaches are trained to lead groups of adults in their journey of making lifestyle changes. Their goal is to reduce the risk of diabetes through healthy eating, physical activity, and weight loss. The program lasts one year, and there are roughly 30 lessons in the curriculum. Each session lasts one hour. Lifestyle coaches help participants work on skills to improve their daily habits. Coaches encourage progress and help participants to deal with challenges that arise. Lifestyle Coaches do not need to be health care professionals; they must be effective facilitators and support the group process as it relates to behavior change.
Why become a Lifestyle Coach?
There are many reasons why people become lifestyle coaches. Some have worked in health care, while others have a friend or family member living with diabetes. Whatever the reason, lifestyle coaches have passion for helping people live healthier lives. They have excellent facilitation skills and create a supportive, non-judgmental environment where participants thrive and grow.
A good lifestyle coach is someone who has the following skills:
- Comfortable and effective with facilitating group discussion
- Knowledge of the principles of behavior change
- Able to build relationships with people and to build community within a group
- Able to communicate effectively with people one on one, and also in front of a group
- Active listening skills
- Able to work with people from different ages, racial groups, and life experiences
- Able to guide behavior change without prescribing personal actions or solutions
- Enthusiasm and a positive attitude
- Knowledge of basic health, nutrition, and fitness principles
Want to learn more?
Lifestyle Coaches commit to leading 30 sessions over the course of the year. Lifestyle Coaches are provided with CDC-approved training at no cost, and are paid for their time.
If you would like to learn more about becoming a coach, please complete an interest form below.