What is health coaching?

In today's world, where the wellness industry is estimated to be worth over £170m per year and the UK government has increasingly emphasised shifting from a reactive, illness-focused healthcare system to a proactive, prevention-oriented approach, wellness is more than just a trend and preventive care is gaining momentum, with health coaches providing a vital service in health optimisation and preventative care. However, despite the growing interest in the field, many people still aren’t quite sure what health coaches actually do. Are they like personal trainers? Are they nutritionists? Therapists?

Let’s break it down.

What Is a Health Coach?

A health coach is a trained professional who helps individuals make sustainable lifestyle changes to improve their overall wellbeing. Unlike doctors or dietitians who diagnose and prescribe, health coaches work collaboratively with clients to set and achieve personal health goals. Their focus is on behavior change, empowerment, and accountability.

Health coaches often come from diverse backgrounds and may have training in areas like nutrition, exercise science, psychology, or nursing. Always look for a coach who is certified by an organisation like the UK and International Health Coaching Association, which ensures a standard of competence and professionalism.

What Does a Health Coach Do?

Health coaches support their clients in a variety of ways, depending on the individual’s needs. Here are some common aspects of the job:

• Goal Setting

  Health coaches help clients identify specific, meaningful goals—like losing weight, managing stress, sleeping better, or eating healthier. These goals are usually personalised and achievable, based on the client’s lifestyle and preferences.

• Creating Action Plans

  Once a goal is set, a coach works with the client to create a step-by-step action plan. This may include meal planning, creating a fitness routine, practicing mindfulness, or setting boundaries around work/life balance.

• Motivation and Accountability

  One of the biggest benefits of working with a health coach is having someone in your corner. Coaches check in regularly, track progress, and provide support when motivation wanes. They help clients stay committed—even when things get tough.

• Behaviour Change Strategies

  Health coaches use evidence-based techniques from psychology and behavioural science (like motivational interviewing or habit stacking) to help clients break unhealthy patterns and build new routines.

• Education

  While they don’t diagnose or treat medical conditions, health coaches often provide basic education around topics like nutrition, exercise, stress management, and sleep hygiene. They empower clients to make informed choices, not just follow rules.

Who Can Benefit from a Health Coach?

Pretty much anyone looking to improve their health habits can benefit from a health coach, but especially:

• People managing chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or obesity or wanting to reduce their risk of developing a chronic condition.

• People who are struggling to lose weight especially around times of significant physiological changes like post partum or peri-menopause.

• Individuals struggling with motivation or consistency

• Busy professionals trying to find work-life balance

• Those looking for personalised, non-judgmental support

The Bottom Line

Health coaches don’t offer quick fixes or one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, they work with clients to help them uncover their own motivation, healthier habits, and ultimately take charge of their own wellbeing.

In a world where it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by conflicting health advice, a health coach offers something refreshingly simple: support, clarity, and a practical path forward.

Want to find out a bit more or chat to someone about what a health coach can do for you? Visit The Balance to find out more or book your FREE balance health check today!