I can’t decide between the weight management specialization and the behaviour change specialization; does anyone have feedback?
I am a NASM certified PT and I want to get a specialization for CEUs and to improve my marketability. I want to be able to help the people around me, in addition to my clients, lose weight and pick up healthy lifestyle habits, and I can’t decide whether the weight management specialization or the behaviour change is more practical and useful when applying what I learn to my clients/close friends. Also, would I be able to give comprehensive programs that they can follow (and some advice in a non-gym setting, like one-to-one consultations in an office setting), or will I only be giving general guidelines to my clients at the gym/studio?
Hello Raghad,
I have them both, and I value them both. However, if I had to pick one over the other, I would go with the behavior change certification.
My reason is that most people struggle more with the implementation of change, not the content of it. What I liked about the behavior change certification was that it linked the various intervention techniques to the readiness stage of a client. For example, developing a detailed fitness program is of no use to a person who is wondering whether exercising is the thing to do. It is great, though, for somebody who is committed.
The behavior change certification is also more generically applicable; smoking cessation comes to mind.
Hope this helps.
Karin Singleton
www.KarinSingleton.com
Hello Raghad Anas,
Behavior change is more rounded for all clients to make better decisions. Weight management is geared for the people with obesity. Do you remember hearing your clients ask for help with one or the other more often? That would be the way to go. You can always take the other course later.
Thank you,
Natalie aka NAPS 2 B Fit.
In my experience as a health coach, there are so many things affecting a clients ability to lose weight. A lack of knowledge is usually not one of them. If you have a solid understanding of nutrition and exercise, being a NASM PT I am sure you do, I would aim for the behavior change program. I agree with Karin statement “most people struggle more with the implementation of change”. I moved from working as a personal trainer to coaching several years ago and have found it to be an empowering experience for my clients and myself.
Best of luck to you!
Liz
Elizabeth Schenk
www.bestselfcoaching.com
www.facebook.com/pg/bestselfcoaching/