ISSA Launches Health Coach Certification Programs, Looks to Close Gaps to Promote Healthy Lifestyles
The International Sports Sciences Association points out that the health coaching industry will reach $7 trillion by 2025, as it introduces a Health Coach Certification
The International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA), a leader in personal training certification, has introduced an ISSA Health Coach Certification. The newly introduced certification is made up of three health coaching programs, each with a focus on nutrition, transformation, or online coaching.
ISSA says its health coach certification provides a pathway to a rewarding career in an industry that is projected to reach $7 trillion by 2025.
“COVID taught us all: Health is Wealth,” said ISSA’s CEO, Andrew Wyant. “The increased risks of obesity and controllable diseases have never been clearer. Unfortunately, there’s no single approach that works for everyone. That’s why Health Coaches are emerging as an important part of promoting healthier living. Health Coaches can fill the gaps between the exercise, nutrition and medical professionals to change behaviors and get lasting results.”
People have begun to reject sugary sodas and highly processed foods in favor of a healthier lifestyle, according to Wyant, but misinformation and bad marketing are making healthier choices more difficult than ever. “That’s why we developed the ISSA Health Coaching program to direct people to the evidenced-based science around everything from inflammation to gut health. What makes ISSA unique is that we bring complex science into easy to understand and apply principles for everyone to use for themselves and others,” Wyant tells Athletech News.
The ISSA coaching programs offer training in cognitive behavior approaches, goal setting, psychology skills, and chronic health conditions. This allows for coaches to better assess client needs and craft individual wellness plans. The program is adaptable, allowing students to complete the courses at their own pace and select an area of interest, but most importantly, it enables coaches to help clients holistically, according to Dan Duran, Vice President of Content and Partnerships.
“It took a pandemic to fully understand the importance of wellness. Historically, health clubs and fitness professionals were more focused on traditional exercise,” said Duran. “The miss was incorporating overall lifestyle changes. Being prepared to holistically help clients achieve better health and wellness with the added value of nutrition, behavior change, recovery and lifestyle change is the future of coaching.”
While the ISSA Health Coach Certification is ideal for coaches looking to expand their services, it is also intended for anyone looking to transition into a career guiding others on their health journey.
