Turn Your Passion for Health Into a Career You Love
Flexible self-study training for professional accreditation
Become a behavior change expert. Inspire lasting health and vitality. Make a living doing what you love.
Study Online
Learn on your own time from the convenience of your computer, smartphone, or tablet—anytime, anywhere.
Lifetime Access
We're always adding new material to stay up to date with science. You get lifetime access to the program and to our Business Resource Center.
Community Support
Join PHCI faculty and thousands of fellow students and grads on our worldwide mission to change the health of the world one person at a time.
What You'll Receive
The Primal Health Coach Certification Program is the most in-depth and up-to-date ancestral health education in the world. We don’t just create health experts. We certify health coaches that are true catalysts for behavior change. And we make sure they have the business knowledge and marketing resources to go out in the world and change lives.
What You'll Learn
Reprogram genes to direct optimal cellular function. Coach clients toward healthy lifestyle, fitness, and dietary choices. Strengthen the coach-client bond with the art of listening, the science of asking questions, the craft of intuition, the skill of collaboration, and the inspiration of a mentor. And get the tools you need to launch your health business.
Welcome from Mark Sisson and Erin Power
Course Overview
Downloading Files Within the Course
Meet Your Faculty and Staff
Important: Legal Matters
Disclaimer and Copyright Notice
Support
Introduction
Announcements
Upcoming Webinars
Introduction
Ebooks
Audiobooks
Archived Webinars
Peer and Faculty Support & Connection via Facebook
Introduction Video
Why PHCI?
Why Ancestral Health?
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 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
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 15 Curriculum Audio
Chapter 15 Exam
Regional Regulations
WORKSHEET: Scope of Practice
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 16 Curriculum Audio
Chapter 16 Exam
Imposter Syndrome
Reframing
Practicum: Reframing Imposter Syndrome
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 17 Curriculum Audio
Chapter 17 Exam
The Three-Way Coaching Role-Play
Peer-to-Peer Practicum: Coaching Role-Play
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
Working with Clients on a Behavioral Level
Working with Clients on a Behavioral Level - Audio Supplement
The Mental Layer
Working with Clients on a Mental Level
Working with Clients on a Mental Level - Audio Supplement
The Spiritual Layer
Working with Clients on a Spiritual Level
Working with Clients on a Spiritual Level - Audio Supplement
The Relationship Layer
Working with Clients on Their Relationships
Working with Clients on Their Relationships - Audio Supplement
Chapter 18 Curriculum - Audio
COACHING DEMO(s): Primal Health Coaching Conversations
Chapter 18 Exam
Introduction
Case Study #1: Sarah
Case Study #1: Heather
Case Study #1: David
Case Study #1: Diana
Practicum: Case Studies
Skills for Building a Successful Business
You Don't HAVE to Build a Business if You Don't Want To
Who Are You, Who Do You Help, Why, and How?
Who Are You?
EXERCISE: Write Your Story
Who Do You Help?
EXERCISE: Discover Your Ideal Client
What Is Your Unique Value Proposition?
EXERCISE: Create Your Unique Value Proposition
Chapter 19 Curriculum Audio
Chapter 19 Exam
Write Your One-Page
Create a Signature Health Coaching Product
Coaching Formats
Recommendation: Begin with One-on-One Coaching
CASE STUDY: Beginning with One-on-One, then Scaling to Group Coaching
The Short-Duration Challenge
CASE STUDY: Using a Short-Duration Challenge to Convert One-on-One Clients
The 12-Week Primal Health Coaching Program Flow
Enrolling Your Client
Intake
The Onboarding Session
Weekly Check-In
Additional Coaching Tools
Client Successes and Struggles
Graduate Your Client
Program Completion: Celebrate Success
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
PrimalPro™
Chapter 20 Curriculum Audio
Chapter 20 Exam
Build It and Get Ready To Sell It. Yes: Right Now!
Product Ideation
Determine Your Pricing
Name Your Product
Sell Your Product
Create Online Forms
Audit the Customer Experience
Protect Yourself from Liability
Create a Disclaimer
Publish your Terms and Conditions
Privacy
Have a Coach-Client Agreement
The #1 Way to Protect Yourself...
Liability Insurance
Hire a Lawyer
Chapter 21 Curriculum Audio
Chapter 21 Exam
What Business Type is Best?
EXERCISE: Write your Disclaimer, Terms and Conditions, and Privacy Policy
EXERCISE: Write Your Client Agreement
Introduction to Small Business Marketing
Build Your Marketing Plan
Client Generation Blueprint
Inbound Marketing: Help Clients Find YOU
ATTRACT: Content Marketing
CONVERT: Turn Traffic into Leads
CONVERT: Nurture Leads with Automated Email
CLOSE: Email Examples
CLOSE: Making the Sale
DELIGHT: Impress Your Clients and Earn Referral Business
How, When, and What to Outsource
Marketing Glossary
Chapter Summary
Chapter 22 Curriculum - Audio
Chapter 22 Exam
Search for a Web Domain and Social Media Handles
Build a Website
TUTORIAL: How to Build a Website and Blog in WordPress
Connect Your Website to Your Domain
Connect Your Email Address to Your Website
TUTORIAL: Create a PDF eBook as a Lead Magnet
TUTORIAL: Set Up an Autoresponder Sequence with MailChimp
TUTORIAL: Set Up an Autoresponder Sequence with Keap
EXERCISE: Create and Post Content
EXERCISE: Business Analysis
Sales = Enrollment
Build Your Marketing Plan
Sales and Your Money Mindset
Authentic Engagement
You Only Need One Client
Video Supplement: Sales Is Just a Conversation
Discovery: Securing Clients
Mindset: The Key to Enrollment
Pricing: What to Charge?
A NO Is Usually a MAYBE
It's a YES: Now You're a Coach
Chapter 23 Curriculum Audio
Chapter 23 Exam
EXERCISE: Build Your Framework for the Discovery Call
Primal Health Coach Certification Final Exam
What Our Grads Say
Completing the Primal Health Coach Program has proven to be an invaluable asset to my coaching practice. I'm so much more prepared to explain the benefits of a primal lifestyle to my clients and coach them as they take their health, fitness, and performance to a higher level than they ever thought possible.
James Arthur
Certified Primal Health Coach
The Primal Health Coach Program expanded my access to and credibility with people who embrace primal principles but who may not have considered holistic medicine, enhancing my practice and extending my professional reach.
Dr. Dana Leigh Lyons
Certified Primal Health Coach
The knowledge I learned from the Primal Health Coach Program allowed me to skillfully integrate for my patients the healing power of Periodontal Laser Therapy with the healing power of primal lifestyle and diet.
Alvin H. Danenberg, DDS
Certified Primal Health Coach
Frequently Asked Questions
Becoming a health coach requires more than just a health education. You’ll also need to sharpen your coaching skills and learn how to get a business off the ground and keep it thriving. The Primal Health Coach Certification Program is a well-rounded education in all three. We also make sure our graduates can start making money as soon as they have their certification in hand by providing a wealth of resources, done-for-you templates, and even a ready-made coaching program. We balance out the learnings with live webinars, optional events and masterclasses, and have a tight-knit community of coaches to support one another on our mission to change the health of the world. And we do it all at a significantly lower price point.
You get to complete the course at your convenience moving at the quickest pace of one chapter a week. There is a lot of material to cover and digest, and the exams are rigorous. It’s conceivable that a real all-star could breeze through the material, succeed on the tests, and be done with the course work in 6 months. Designed for flexible self-study, you certainly don’t need to move at a rapid pace. Especially because this certification course isn’t merely an online course with exams but a complete program with a robust library of multimedia educational materials. There is no rush to pass in haste and potentially compromise your educational enjoyment.
This course material is on a par with an upper-division college course in the health sciences, but the material is presented in a simple, straightforward manner that’s easy for even the most non-technical reader to understand.
The 24 exams are made up of multiple choice and true/false questions that have been carefully scrutinized by an elite team of beta-testers to ensure fairness and relevance to the written and video content course material. A score of 75 percent correct or better represents a passing grade. If you score below 75 percent, you can return to the material for review and then attempt the exam again and as many times as you need to pass it.
If you struggle on the exams, our staff is here to help you with one-on-one support to ensure that your experience is positive. On occasion, it becomes evident early on that a student is not a good fit for this rigorous course. If so, we will suggest that you discontinue your studies and accept a full refund provided it’s within the initial 30 days of your course, or you are otherwise early on in your progress and at our discretion.
This course is more comprehensive than any other health coach certification you will find in the world! Not only do you receive an in-depth education in the areas of nutrition and exercise science, sun exposure, sleep, stress management and other healthy lifestyle behaviors, but you are trained to become an effective and proficient coach. And we don't stop there. Without business know-how your coaching practice will never get off the ground, and so we provide pre- and post-graduation business development education and resources, including done-for-you programming materials. Mastery of these three pillars (health/nutrition, the art and science of coaching, the business of coaching) are required for certification and prepare you to be a successful health coach.
When you enroll in the certification course you immediately become part of our community, and we’ll do everything in our power to make sure you reach your personal health and career goals. We’re so confident that the program and our organization will exceed your expectations that we offer a 30-day, no-questions-asked, money-back guarantee. You’ll get a full refund if the course isn’t to your liking, or if life circumstances shift your focus and you decide that health coaching is no longer your preferred career path. We also pride ourselves on going above and beyond with course offerings, as well as bonus resources that make it as easy as possible to turn your career dreams into real-life earnings.
Yes. View all the organizations that grant continuing education units for completion of our health coaching certification course here.
We publish a Find a Coach Directory at PrimalHealthCoach.com where you can build a profile and attract new clients. If you are not interested in public recognition or wish to reveal less than the template information, you may opt out or limit the information you share.
When you pass this course, you are granted a license to use the trademarked Primal Health Coach logo on your business cards, advertising, social media, and other promotions, such as print flyers for your live events.
When you pass the certification course, you’re qualified for a wholesale account at PrimalBlueprint.com. You’ll enjoy great savings on quantity orders of Primal Blueprint supplements, books, educational products, apparel, Primal Kitchen food products, and promo items. If you want to purchase Primal Blueprint or Primal Kitchen products for personal use at below wholesale minimum quantities, we offer a generous “friends & family” discount.
There is no shortage of business opportunities awaiting Primal Health Coaches. You can start your own coaching practice and fill your roster with individual and group coaching clients. You can develop online courses for a passive income stream, coach clients in your own app, or join a medical practice, corporation, insurance company, or wellness center as a resident health coach.