Clients’ and Coaches’ Perspectives of a Life Coaching Intervention for Parents with Overweight/Obesity

Abstract

This qualitative study explored the coaching-related experiences of clients (parents who were overweight/obese) and coaches who participated in a 3-month obesity intervention. Semi-structured interviews were conducted at multiple time points and were audio-recorded and analysed by question and via inductive content analysis. Clients reported increased accountability, goal setting skills, awareness, and external support in relation to health behaviours. Coaches shared tools they utilised, insights from working with this population, and advice for future coaches. This research informs the client-coach relationship; insights from both parties will allow researchers to create effective programming for this population.

Keywords

• overweight/obesity
• co-active life coaching
• coach perspectives
• client perspectives
• lifestyle intervention