Health behavior theory knowledge and motivational techniques to assist individuals with nutrition and exercise/physical activity-related weight management behaviors. Skill application assignments provide an understanding of working with different personalities and goals, preparing individualized programs, to reduce behavioral barriers across the lifespan.
Athena Title
Weight Management Coaching
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in KINS 4700, NUTR 4700, KINS 6700, NUTR 6700
Non-Traditional Format
This course will be taught 95% or more online.
Semester Course Offered
Offered every year.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student learning Outcomes
Students will understand the impact of diet and physical inactivity on body weight.
Students will define and discuss personal, social, and environmental correlates and determinants of weight management.
Students will explain implicit and explicit obesity bias and elaborate on implications for clients and for providers of weight management coaching.
Students will discuss and demonstrate effective communication skills with individuals to facilitate successful behavior change and maintenance.
Students will understand the principles of health promoting behavior change from various theoretical perspectives and the Health at Every Size® (HAES) paradigm.
Students will describe and apply the elements of individual assessment necessary to develop effective short and long-term behavior goals.
Students will explain pros and cons of different weight management strategies based on the theoretical perspectives and paradigm discussed.
Students will select and evaluate appropriate strategies for people differing in health and motivational stage to promote motivation and teach behavioral skills for healthy eating and exercise.
Students will demonstrate understanding of when to refer clients to other professionals and to whom (i.e., medical, nutrition, psychological counseling).
Students will demonstrate an appreciation for human diversity in planning and implementing weight management programs.
Topical Outline
Introductions
Background: Determinants of Body Weight
Behavior Change Skills Introduction
a. Self-Monitoring
b. Goal Setting
c. Behavioral Contracts
Mindful Eating
Weight Bias: Issues for Clients and Practitioners
Review of Position Statements
a. Safety and Physical Activity Guidelines: ACSM Position Statement
b. Weight Management Guidelines: ADA Position Statement
Psychosocial and Physiological Assessment
Behavior Change Models and Strategies
a. Moderators and Mediators
b. Social Cognitive Theories
c. Health Belief Model
d. Transtheoretical Model of Behavior Change
e. Self-Determination Theory
Dietary Guidelines
a. Scope of Practice Considerations
b. Fads and Resources
c. Practical Nutrition Counseling Tips
