Cabbage and her coach, Ryan Sherman, set up a schedule that involved weekly emails, a phone call every six weeks and face-to-face meetings every six months. In time, she learned to trust his advice. “He was encouraging but not unrealistic,” she says. “He would challenge me if a goal seemed wimpy or help reframe something that seemed too difficult.”
But what she found most helpful was the accountability: “I used MapMyRun+ and would send Ryan a screenshot of a run I just did, and I loved having him immediately respond with enthusiasm,” she says. Their partnership paid off. Over the course of two years, Cabbage lost another 50 pounds. “I realize now that leaning on someone to help you with your health isn’t about being weak—it’s about being brave. I finally have achieved a quality of life that I love,” she says.
As for me, a good friend of mine happens to be a wellness coach, and she has been helping me learn various ways to relax (that don’t involve wine). I’ve started working out regularly and journaling about my feelings. She also connected me with a massage therapist for my body aches and a facialist for my skin. Even better, when I told her I was looking for a new doctor, she gave me the name of an internist with a holistic approach. After just a few months, I have more energy, I’m sleeping better, and my sex drive is back. At last, I feel like myself again.
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Your first appointment
Got a date with a coach? Bring these essentials.
1. Your health history
Be ready to discuss chronic conditions, any medications or supplements you take, your eating habits, your current ailments and challenges, and your sleep and exercise patterns.
2. Good intentions
You may have a specific target in mind (like dropping 20 pounds), but if not, that’s OK. Simply wanting to get healthier is enough. The coach’s job is to help you clarify your goals.
3. Your doc’s digits
If your coach isn’t already working directly with your healh care providers, bring their contact info so she can reach out if necessary.
4. An open mind
A coach might help you explore complementary therapies backed by science, like acupuncture or hypnotherapy. Follow up with your doctor about any treatments you plan to pursue.
5. Your wallet
Most coaches offer an initial conversation for free. After that, expect to pay about $100 or more per session. The cost of coaching isn’t typically covered by insurance, but you may be able to get reimbursed through your Flexible Spending Account.