Achieve your dream of becoming a
health or fitness professional.
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Empower Clients to Become Fitter, Stronger, Healthier
Flexible self-study training for professional accreditation
Become a certified fitness coach. Help people reach their physical potential. Grow a successful coaching business.
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 Fitness Coach Certification teaches individuals to become fitness coaches that are proficient at training clients to be fit for life—to avoid injuries, increase mobility, develop lean muscle mass, protect joints, and optimize metabolic health. This well-rounded functional fitness certification covers best practices for daily movement, strength-training and conditioning, HIIT exercises, sprinting, and more.
What You'll Learn
Equal parts fitness and coaching, our fitness coach certification prepares you to go beyond reps and empower clients to actively take ownership of their body and movement patterns.
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
The “Primal” Approach to Fitness and a Healthy, Happy, Active Lifestyle
The Idea of a "Fitness Coach"
Walking the Talk
Quick Facts
Itroduction
The Critical Distinction Between Health and Fitness
HIIT and Steady-State Cardio: Rethinking Popular but Flawed Training Modalities
Play!
Aging Gracefully: Adaptations and Evolving Goals
Chapter Summary and References
Chapter 1 Exam
Quick Facts
Introduction
Benefits of Increasing Everyday Movement
Walking: The Centerpiece of an Active Lifestyle
Formal Movement Practices
Chapter Summary and References
Chapter 2 Exam
Quick Facts
Introduction
Spinal Fundamentals
Standing, Sitting, Lying, Bending, and Extending
Creating a Dynamic Workstation
Ancestral Resting Positions
Chapter Summary and References
Chapter 3 Exam
Quick Facts
Introduction
How to Breathe Correctly
Tracking Progress with Breathing Tests
Exercises to Improve Breathing Competency
Advanced Breathing Techniques for Peak Performance
Chapter Summary and References
Chapter 4 Exam
Quick Facts
Introduction
Rationale, Benefits, and Contraindications of Stretching
Static Stretching
Dynamic Stretching
Hip Flexor Stretching and Strengthening
The Circadian and "Whole Health" Benefits of a Morning Flexibility/Mobility/Balance Routine
Mobility, Flexibility, and Balance
Fascial Restructuring and Reawakening
Functional Movement Assessments and Corrective Exercises
Chapter Summary and References
Chapter 5 Exam
Quick Facts
Introduction
Fuel Substrate Utilization at Varying Exercise Intensities
Maximum Aerobic Function and the Aerobic Threshold
Monitoring Your Heart Rate During Exercise
Maximum Aerobic Function Test
Re-evaluating and Redefining Cardio
Jogging 2.0: Evolving from Steady-State Cardio to More Varied and Challenging Workouts
Cardio and Fat Loss Frustration
Chapter Summary and References
Chapter 6 Exam
Quick Facts
Introduction
Functional Muscle Mass: The Preeminent Fitness Objective
Healthspan and High-intensity Exercise
Optimal Workout Design, Rest and Recovery, and Work/Rest Ratios
Resistance Training Concepts and Fundamentals
Microworkouts
Chapter Summary and References
Chapter 7 Exam
Quick Facts
Introduction
The Deadlift
The Squat
Chapter Summary and References
Chapter 8 Exam
Quick Facts
Introduction
Popular Functional Fitness Resistance Exercises
Bodyweight Exercises - Upper Body
Bodyweight Exercises - Lower Body
Free Weight Exercises - Upper Body Pushing
Free Weight Exercises – Upper Body Pulling
Machine Exercises – Upper Body
Machine Exercises – Lower Body
Kettlebell Exercises
Chapter Summary and References
Chapter 9 Exam
Quick Facts
Introduction
Physiological Benefits of Sprinting and Jumping
Optimal Duration, Repetitions, and Recovery Intervals
Elements of an Effective Sprint Workout
Sprinting Technique
Suggested Sprint Workouts
Jumping: The Ultimate Explosive Exercise
Suggested Jumping Workouts
Chapter Summary and References
Chapter 10 Exam
Quick Facts
Introduction
Understanding the Endorphin Response
The Central Governor Theory
The Central Cooling System
A Kinder, Gentler Approach to Peak Performance – The Secret Strategies of Elite Athletes
Chapter Summary and References
Chapter 11 Exam
Quick Facts
Introduction
Overreaching: A Temporarily Adaptive State from Inappropriate Fight-or-Flight Stimulation
Overreaching Symptoms
How to Remedy Overreaching
Overtraining/Burnout Symptoms
Recovering from Overreaching/Overtraining
Journaling to Support Health and Fitness
Chapter Summary and References
Chapter 12 Exam
Quick Facts
Introduction
Optimizing Sleep Habits and Sleep Environment
Emphasizing Recovery in Training
Walking for Recovery
Hydration
Conducting a Recovery-based Workout
Rest, Down Time, and Disconnecting
Heart Rate Variability to Track Recovery
Chapter Summary and References
Chapter 13 Exam
Introduction: The Primal Fitness Pyramid
Coaching Your Clients to Move Frequently
Designing a Strength Training Plan (Lift Heavy Things)
Programming Short, Infrequent, Explosive Efforts (Sprint)
Programming Recovery
Client-Led Programming: The Primal Fitness Coach Approach
Chapter Summary and References
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
Primal Health Coaching has helped me to present primal nutrition and lifestyle habits to my clientele in a very useable format. After completing the course, you are ready to field questions and have total confidence that you are the foremost authority in primal health, fitness, and lifestyle. I think this one certification is more valuable than any personal trainer or nutrition certification that might be available.
Jim Beaumont
Certified Primal Health Coach
Primal Health Coaching allows me to not only promote my services as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, but also as a Primal Health Coach. I can now help my clients avoid metabolic damage, inflammation, and other potential problems. My client base has broadened to include not only competitors and athletes, but those wanting to understand paleo/keto nutrition and the revised paradigm of health and fitness.
Camille Moran
Certified Primal Health Coach
As a fitness coach, I incorporate the Primal Blueprint Key Concepts to help people express their full genetic potential as athletes, so they can improve every measurable aspect of fitness: to recover, refuel, and train like a beast.
Donovan James
Certified Primal Health Coach
Frequently Asked Questions
Many fitness training programs certify personal trainers as experts in their specific, branded training modality. We certify fitness coaches and prepare you for a more comprehensive and effective coach-client relationship. The foundational element of the Primal Fitness Coach philosophy is that fitness permeates all aspects of daily life, far beyond what happens when you conduct formal workouts at the gym or on the road.
Fitness coaches most certainly serve as hands-on workout guides and program planners, but they also help build up their clients' physical and mental fortitude by teaching them to work within their limits and expand those limits safely. Fitness coaches inspire comprehensive lifestyle changes, such as dietary transformation, sleep optimization, and increasing all forms of general movement, and exhibit excellent technique for everyday life behaviors such as sitting, standing, and reaching. Fitness coaches empower clients to take the lead with decision-making and goal setting, while gently guiding them to make the choices that serve their long-term interests and promote healthspan.
Once you start the online education process, course material is released at a rate of one chapter per week. There are 23 chapters, so you could technically get your fitness certification in as little as 23 weeks. However, this is a self-paced program, so you can proceed through the course work at a slower rate any time you'd like. Remember, your enrollment gives you lifetime access to all the course material.
Some estimate that this course material is on a par with an upper-division college course in the health sciences. However, the written material and videos are all presented in an easy-to-understand format, with a minimum of “sciency” terms or overly complex narratives. That said, the coursework is comprehensive and provides a detailed overview of the most respected fitness research, coaching trends, and training philosophies today. While no prerequisites are necessary to enroll, your pace of learning and ease of passing the exams will be accelerated if you have a background in the fitness industry or as an athlete. If you have minimal background experience or knowledge, we will work with you one-on-one to ensure that you absorb the material effectively and pass the course.
The 23 chapter 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 find yourself getting stuck on a certain chapter or frustrated with the learning experience in any way, don’t stress! We are here to support and eagerly await the opportunity to help. In our years of experience assisting Primal Health Coaches complete the rigorous certification program, we’ve learned that it’s natural to struggle on certain topics or with certain learning modalities and that a little one-on-one support here and there can make all the difference. When in doubt, reach out. We are here to help!
This course is more comprehensive than any other fitness certification you will find in the world! While a CrossFit certification will go deeper into CrossFit and a USA Triathlon coaching certification will go deeper into triathlon training, your Primal Fitness Coach certification will provide the most comprehensive, high-level experience and go deeper into the practical and philosophical knowledge needed to lead a fitness lifestyle yourself and deliver that programming to your clients.
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 education 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 fitness coaching is no longer your preferred career path.
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. In our years of experience publishing the coach directory, we have received dozens, if not hundreds, of success stories and thank yous from coaches around the world who have attracted clients and even connected with other coaches and professional resources through the directory. We encourage you to take full advantage of this directory and keep your information fresh and updated.
When you pass this course, you are granted a license to use the trademarked Primal Fitness Coach logo on your business cards, advertising, social media, and other promotions, such as print flyers for your live events. There’s no limit to the opportunities you can pursue. You can be a virtual fitness coach, run group coaching sessions at a local gym, join a wellness practice as the resident fitness coach, combine fitness with nutrition coaching to broaden your services, become an athletic coach, or specialize in a fitness niche such as corrective exercise or injury prevention.
We also offer continuing education, including live events, online workshops, and advanced courses, to ensure you succeed as a Primal Fitness Coach.
Make Fitness Your Business
Your clients deserve to move better, feel better, be pain-free, enjoy exercise, and love their bodies. The Primal Fitness Coach Certification teaches you the step-by-step way to make that happen.
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