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Master Health Coach Certification
Become a National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach
Start Date: February 4, 2025
National Board Certified
Industry Leading Program
Become a health expert. Master your coaching craft. Empower your business savvy.
Qualify for NBHWC Certification
Apply for the NBHWC Certifying Examination and earn your National Board Certification as a health and wellness coach
Level up with nutrition and business training
From nutrition intricacies to essential business strategies, our program prepares you to excel and positively impact lives
Participate in dynamic and interactive learning
Get real-time instruction from expert health coaches and practice with peers to develop a keen sense of what works and what doesn't work in a coaching setting
What You'll Receive
Enroll in our Master Coach Certification program to access comprehensive courses in health and nutrition, coaching, and business development. With 12 weeks of live, interactive webinars, exercises, assignments, group projects, and facilitated coaching practice, you'll gain the skills and knowledge to thrive in your coaching career and qualify to sit for the NBHWC exam.
- Twenty-four 90-minute live webinar education sessions
- Facilitated by course instructor Erin Power, these interactive live teaching modules cover the concepts laid out in the online coursework and include an educational presentation, a Q&A session, and a group presentation, project, or coaching role-play.
- 4 Online courses made up of videos, live lessons, and real-time practice
- Taught by NBH-WC health coaches and industry experts, the Master Coach Certification is a complete health, coaching, and business education, including 12 weeks of advanced coaching training—from enrollment and intake to coaching all the way to client release.
- Graded peer-to-peer coaching practice with detailed feedback from course faculty on what you did well and where to improve
- You’ll complete a minimum of three practice coaching sessions and get expert feedback from master coaches during your live teaching modules
- Access to a private Primal Health Coach Master Coach Facebook Group
- Within the group you can connect and bond with Master Coach peers and faculty. Learn from other coaches and get direct access to your course instructor for expert answers to all of your questions.
- A series of exercises to help practically apply the learnings from each chapter
- Business building tasks and development projects help you shape your business story, name, and niche, develop your product, and set up a payment system all before graduation. A 100-page digital book of non-compulsory exercises designed to encourage hands-on learning so you’re prepared to help your clients set goals, navigate behavior change, nurture their growth mindset, and more.
- Lifetime subscription to our Business Resource Center
- This exclusive portal provides postgraduate support to help you launch your business and scale for maximum profit and impact.
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EDUCATION
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INSTRUCTORS
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CERTIFICATION
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PRICING
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WHO IT'S FOR
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DETAILS
What You'll Learn
Guide clients toward healthy lifestyle, fitness, and dietary choices while deepening the coach-client bond through active listening, strategic questioning, intuitive understanding, collaborative techniques, and mentorship. Gain the business expertise you need to take that knowledge and confidently launch and grow your health business.
- Real-time education and support
- All the knowledge you need in one program
- Direct access to health coach mentors and industry experts
- Training for NBHWC certification
Meet Your Instructors
Mark Sisson
Co-Founder and Instructor
Mark Sisson is a celebrated bestselling health and fitness author credited as the “godfather” of paleo/primal and a leading figure in the ancestral health community. He is a former world-class distance runner, triathlete and Ironman competitor, and coach to hundreds of professional athletes. An avid academic, Mark was a pre-med candidate and earned a biology degree from Williams College. He served for 15 years as chairman of the International Triathlon Union (ITU) Anti-Doping Commission and as the ITU’s liaison to the International Olympic Committee. He began sharing his vast nutrition science knowledge with the ancestral-health community by way of his award-winning blog Mark’s Daily Apple. Mark teamed up with other leading experts to create the Primal Health Coach Institute Certification Course, the world’s first coaching program based on the evolutionary health movement.
Erin Power
Coaching and Course Director
For 25 years, Erin Power balanced her full-time marketing and advertising career with a part-time career in the fitness industry as a trainer and fitness instructor. She made the leap to full-time health coaching in 2004, and in that time has helped over 500 individual clients find freedom from food fixation and achieve an effortless relationship with food. These days she's one of the leaders at the helm of developing curriculum for Primal Health Coach Institute® and supporting the business development efforts of our graduates. She's also the co-host of "Health Coach Radio"—the podcast by health coaches, for health coaches. Erin lives outside Calgary, Alberta, Canada, on a hobby farm in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
Lindsay Taylor, PhD
Writer and Researcher
As a writer for Mark's Daily Apple and the leader of the thriving Keto Reset and Primal Endurance communities, Lindsay's primary job is educating people about the whats, whys, and hows of leading a health-focused life. Before coming to work for Primal Nutrition and Primal Health Coach Institute, Lindsay earned her Master's and Ph.D. in Social and Personality Psychology from the University of California, Berkeley. There she focused on self-concept, social interactions, and goal setting. In particular, she researched how self-evaluations are affected by stigma and how that impacts goal-directed behavior. After graduation, she worked at UC Berkeley as a researcher and instructor before shifting gears and pursuing a career in health. Her psychology background drives her approach to coaching, which emphasizes mindset as a key factor in overall health and wellness.
Chloe Maleski
Associate Instructor
Chloe Maleski is a mental performance coach specializing in supporting professional, collegiate, and high school athletes with mental fortitude, cognitive performance, stress management, and mindfulness training.
As a former Division I scholarship runner at Duke University, Chloe understands firsthand the importance of cultivating a championship mentality, resiliency, and mental strength. She brings a unique breadth of experience to her practice as a coach and personal trainer, and now to this health coach certification course, that extends beyond her clinical expertise and personal experience as an athlete.
Chloe holds a Masters of Fine Arts degree in Psychology from Pepperdine University.
Become a Certified Master Health Coach
Upon successful completion of this course, students will have proven their true mastery of the art and science of health coaching and attained Master Primal Health Coach (MPHC) status and recognition.
Bonus! Become Board Certified
The Master Coach Certification Course is NBHWC approved and the only course you need to take in order to sit for the NBHWC exam (Learn more here.)
- NBHWC is largely recognized as the industry authority for health coach board certification.
- Primal Master Health Coaches stand out as the elite in their field.
Become a Master Health Coach in just 12 weeks
While it's designed to be completed in approximately 6 months, ambitious students can potentially complete all four portions of the course in just 12 weeks. This self-paced program allows you to progress at your own speed while still receiving comprehensive training and support. If you’d like to join us, click below and complete the checkout in order to claim your spot.
*Tuition discounts and promotions may be available. Book a call with our admissions team or call 844-307-7662 to discuss our flexible payment plan options that suit any budget.
Who It's For
Aspiring health coaches looking for a virtual program that integrates comprehensive nutrition education, business training, and advanced coaching techniques.
What to Expect
The Master Coach Certification program offers a comprehensive and dynamic learning experience tailored for aspiring health coaches. Whether you’re seeking to enhance your coaching skills, expand your knowledge of nutrition, or develop your business acumen, our program provides the tools and resources you need to succeed.
- The program is divided into four distinct courses: the Primal Health and Nutrition Expert Certification Course; Coaching Expert Certification Course; Business Expert Certification Course; Advanced Coaching Expert Certification Course. Collectively these are known as the Master Coach Certification program. The first three courses are meant to be taken sequentially, can be started at any time, and completed at your own pace. The fourth course is offered twice a year (starting in February and September) over a 12-week period, with classes delivered live via online webinar twice a week.
- All courses contain easy-to-tackle chapters and engaging exercises designed to break up the learning process. Starting with the Welcome Section of the Primal Health and Nutrition Expert course, you'll orient yourself to the material and progress through each lesson and course.
- Each chapter and course concludes with an exam to test your knowledge before progressing to the next step.
- Upon completion of the four courses, including passing all exams and practical skills assessments, you will receive your Master Primal Health Coach certificate. This certificate satisfies the educational requirements to sit for the NBCHWC exam. (Please note that there are other requirements that you'll need to satisfy, outside of our course, in order to sit for the exam. You can learn more here.)
Program Outline
The Master Coach Certification program is divided into four distinct courses: the Primal Health and Nutrition Expert Certification Course, the Coaching Expert Certification Course, the Business Expert Certification Course, and the Advanced Coaching Expert Certification Course.
Primal Health and Nutrition Expert Certification Course Outline
Welcome!
Welcome from Mark Sisson and Erin Power
Course Overview
Downloading Files Within the Course
Meet Your Faculty and Staff
Legal & Support
Important: Legal Matters
Disclaimer and Copyright Notice
Support
Announcements
Introduction
Announcements
Upcoming Webinars
Educational Resources
Introduction
Ebooks
Audiobooks
Archived Webinars
Peer and Faculty Support & Connection via Facebook
Why Primal?
Introduction Video
Why PHCI?
Why Ancestral Health?
Chapter 1 - Yes, You Really Can Reprogram Your Genes
Introduction Video
Chapter Overview
Quick Facts
Genes 101
Gene Expression, Epigenetics, and Genetic Adaptation
Chronic/Systemic Inflammation
Chapter Summary and References
Coaching Your Clients
Chapter 1 Curriculum Audio
Familial Genes - Audio Supplement
Genetic Diversity - Audio Supplement
Changing Habits - Audio Supplement
Chapter 1 Exam
Chapter 2 - The Clues to Optimal Gene Expression Are Found in Evolution
Introduction Video
Chapter Overview
Quick Facts
The Primal Laws
Evolutionary Health
Primal Humans; Modern Humans; and Aging
Chapter Summary and References
Coaching Your Clients
Chapter 2 Curriculum Audio
Primal Blueprint Laws - Audio Supplement
Neanderthal - Audio Supplement
Chapter 2 Exam
Chapter 3 - Your Body Prefers Burning Fat Over Carbohydrates
Introduction Video
Chapter Overview
Quick Facts
The Standard American Diet
Metabolic Flexibility
Fuel Partitioning
Glucose
Fat
Ketones
Recommended Macronutrient Intake Levels
Chapter Summary and References
Coaching Your Clients
Chapter 3 Curriculum Audio
High Carb Consumption - Audio Supplement
Quality Over Quantity - Audio Supplement
Macronutrient Calculations - Audio Supplement
Chapter 3 Exam
Chapter 4 - 80 Percent of Your Body Composition Is Determined by How You Eat
Introduction Video
Chapter Overview
Quick Facts
Energy Balance Determines Body Composition
Hormones
Enzymes
Gut Health
Intermittent Fasting
The Carbohydrate Curve
The "Other Twenty Percent"
Chapter Summary and References
Coaching Your Clients
Chapter 4 Curriculum Audio
Calories In, Calories Out - Audio Supplement
Hormone Optimization - Audio Supplement
Insulin Sensitivity - Audio Supplement
Alcohol - Audio Supplement
Intermittent Fasting - Audio Supplement
Fasting and Exercise - Audio Supplement
Carb Refueling - Audio Supplement
Diet Is the Gateway - Audio Supplement
Chapter 4 Exam
Chapter 5 - Grains Are Totally Unnecessary
Introduction Video
Chapter Overview
Quick Facts
Antinutrients
Predominant Dietary Sources of Antinutrients
Chapter Summary and References
Coaching Your Clients
Chapter 5 Curriculum - Audio
Viewing Health Matters in Isolation - Audio Supplement
Chapter 5 Exam
Chapter 6 - Fat and Cholesterol Are Not Your Enemy
Introduction Video
Chapter Overview
Quick Facts
The Lipid Hypothesis
Heart Disease
Blood Testing
Statins
The Fat, Cholesterol, and Heart Disease Myth
Chapter Summary and References
Coaching Your Clients
Chapter 6 Curriculum - Audio
Chronic Stress - Audio Supplement
Opposing Beliefs - Audio Supplement
Chapter 6 Exam
Chapter 7 - Fitness is Built on a Foundation of Frequent, Low-Intensity Movement
Introduction Video
Chapter Overview
Quick Facts
Dangers of Sedentary Modern Life
Fitness Mythbusting: Chronic Cardio, Caloric Compensation, and Metabolic Rate
Aerobic Exercise
Heart Rate Zones
Chapter Summary and References
Coaching Your Clients
Chapter 7 Curriculum - Audio
Sedentary Patterns - Audio Supplement
Exercise Mentality - Audio Supplement
Chronic Cardio - Audio Supplement
HRV Monitoring - Audio Supplement
Chapter 7 Exam
Chapter 8 - Maximum Fitness Gains Can Be Made in Minimal Time
Introduction Video
Chapter Overview
Quick Facts
Functional Fitness
High-Intensity Fitness
Nutritional Considerations for Exercise
Exercise and Longevity
Play
Recovery
Chapter Summary and References
Coaching Your Clients
Chapter 8 Curriculum - Audio
Resistance Training - Core Curriculum Audio Supplement
Focus on Quality - Core Curriculum Audio Supplement
Fasting and Exercise - Core Curriculum Audio Supplement
Chapter 8 Exam
Chapter 9 - Eliminate SAD Foods
Introduction Video
Chapter Overview
Quick Facts
Pantry Purge Priorities
Fats and Oils
Sweets
Grains
Legumes
Hyper-processed Foods
Condiments
Beverages
Dairy Products
Fish and Seafood
Meat
Potatoes
Conducting Your Pantry Purge
Chapter Summary and References
Coaching Your Clients
Chapter 9 Curriculum - Audio
Chapter 9 Exam
Chapter 10 - Choose (The Best) Primal Foods
Introduction Video
Chapter Overview
Quick Facts
Kitchen Restock
Shopping for Produce
Herbs and Spices
Meat and Poultry
Seafood
Eggs
Nuts, Seeds, and Derivative Butters
Healthy Fats and Oils
Beverages
Dairy
Dark Chocolate
Alcohol
Supplements
Chapter Summary and References
Coaching Your Clients
Chapter 10 Curriculum - Audio
Chapter 10 Exam
Chapter 11 - Shop, Cook, and Dine Primally
Introduction Video
Chapter Overview
Quick Facts
Practical Considerations for Eating Primally
Strategies for Buying Food
Strategies for Cooking, and Eating (and Drinking) at Home
Strategies for Dining Out
Cultivating a Successful Approach
Chapter Summary
Coaching Your Clients
Chapter 11 Curriculum - Audio
Chapter 11 Exam
Chapter 12 - Exercise Primally: Move, Lift, and Sprint!
Introduction Video
Chapter Overview
Quick Facts
Primal Fitness
Move Frequently
Lift Heavy Things
Sprint
Chapter Summary
Coaching Your Clients
Chapter 12 Curriculum - Audio
Chapter 12 Exam
Chapter 13 - Primal Lifestyle
Introduction Video
Chapter Overview
Quick Facts
Diet
Exercise
Work
Sleep
Social Connections
Play
Nature
Sunlight
Slow Life Down
Chapter Summary and References
Coaching Your Clients
Chapter 13 Curriculum - Audio
Chapter 13 Exam
Chapter 14: Programming Primal Health
Chapter Overview
Coaching Formats
Recommendation: Begin with One-on-One Coaching
CASE STUDY: Beginning with One-on-One, then Scaling to Group Coaching
Use Short-Duration Challenges to Leverage Your Individual Program
CASE STUDY: Using a Short-Duration Challenge to Convert One-on-One Clients
The 12-Week Primal Health Coaching Program Flow
On-Boarding Your New One-on-One Client
Intake
After Intake: Session One
Bi-Weekly Education Sessions
Weekly Check-In
Coaching Conversations
Additional Coaching Tools
Tracking Progress: Successes and Struggles
Common Client Concerns
Get Ready to Graduate Your Client
Program Completion
DEMO: A 12-Week Primal Health Coaching Relationship
PROGRAMMING SUPPORT MATERIALS: The 12-Week Primal Health Coaching Program
PROGRAMMING SUPPORT MATERIALS: 21-Day Primal Challenge
Chapter 14 Exam
FINAL EXAM
Primal Health and Nutrition Final Exam
Coaching Expert Certification Course Outline
Welcome!
Course Overview
Downloading Files Within the Course
Course Overview
Meet Your Faculty and Staff
Legal & Support
Disclaimer and Copyright Notice
Support
Resources
Introduction
Announcements
Upcoming Webinars
Archived Webinars
Peer and Faculty Support & Connection via Facebook
Chapter 1: Scope of Practice
Disclaimer
Introduction Video
Defining Your Value as a Health Coach
Scope of Practice
What Can Health Coaches Say and Do
How to Operate as a Health Coach Without Giving Individualized Nutrition Advice
Consult with a Lawyer
Curriculum Supplement: Health Coaches and Lab Testing
Chapter 1 Curriculum Audio
Chapter 1 Exam
Coaching Practicum #1: Understanding Your Scope
Regional Regulations
WORKSHEET: Scope of Practice
Chapter 2 - Coaching Foundations
What Is Health Coaching?
The Primal Health Coach Model
Your Secret Sauce: What Kind of Coach Are You?
WORKSHEET: Discover Your Secret Sauce
Code of Ethics
Professional Conduct
The Illness-Wellness Continuum
Chapter Summary
Chapter 2 Curriculum Audio
Chapter 2 Exam
Coaching Practicum #2: Reframing your Imposter Syndrome
Imposter Syndrome
Reframing
Practicum: Reframing Imposter Syndrome
Chapter 3: The Art & Science of Health Coaching
The Client-Centered Coaching Relationship
Coaching Relationship Framework
Overview of the Client-Centered Coaching Session
Letting the Client Lead: Coaching in Action
The Transtheoretical Model (Stages of Change)
Self-Determination Theory
Social Cognitive Theory
Motivational Interviewing
Active Listening and Reflection
Goal-Setting
Accountability and Compliance
Goal-Setting Summary: Assess Client Confidence and Identify Barriers
Chapter Summary
Chapter 3 Curriculum Audio
Chapter 3 Exam
Coaching Practicum #3: Coaching Role-Play
The Three-Way Coaching Role-Play
Peer-to-Peer Practicum: Coaching Role-Play
Chapter 4 - Advanced Coaching Layers
Chapter Overview
Introduction
Introduction - Audio Supplement
Coaching Best Practices
Coaching Best Practices
Coaching Best Practices - Audio Supplement
The Emotional Layer
Working with Clients on an Emotional Level
Working with Clients on an Emotional Level - Audio Supplement
The Behavioral Layer