Over the last few years, health coaching has taken off as a popular career choice within the wellness industry, and millions of patients are also turning to health coaches as a way to fill in the gaps in their traditional healthcare plans. Most health coaches are certified professionals who can offer expertise in areas such as fitness and nutrition, but working with a health coach is not without certain drawbacks. If you’re considering working with a health coach but aren’t sure whether it’s right for you, read on to learn more about some of the main pros and cons.
Personalized Guidance
Because health coaches are versed in a variety of health-related topics, they’re able to offer more personalized guidance than professionals such as doctors, who often specialize in one area. This type of individualized approach can make it easier to look at your lifestyle as a whole and take the necessary steps to work toward your goals.
Drawbacks
One of the most significant cons to seeing a health coach is the cost. Health coaches can be expensive, and as the industry is fairly new, insurance coverage may vary depending on your plan and the services you go for. It’s also important to consider that the effectiveness of a health coach will largely depend on their competency and experience and choose your coach accordingly.
Time
Health coaching often involves regular sessions and goal-tracking, which can be quite time consuming and not necessarily feasible for people with busy schedules. If you’re willing and able to commit, this type of structured approach can be quite helpful when compared to going it alone. Otherwise, working with a health coach may ultimately be a waste of your time and money.
