Co-Active Life Coaching as a Treatment for Adults with Obesity

This study evaluates the impact of one-on-one coaching on the waist circumference, BMI, self-esteem, self-efficacy, physical activity, and functional health status of adults with obesity. A one-group withinsubjects, pre-test post-test study design was used. The study took place at the University of...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:International journal of evidence based coaching and mentoring 2008-08, Vol.6 (2), p.1-12
Main Authors: Courtney Newnham-Kanas, Jennifer D. Irwin, Don Morrow
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
life coaching
obesity intervention
self-esteem
waist circumference
Online Access:Get full text
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Summary:This study evaluates the impact of one-on-one coaching on the waist circumference, BMI, self-esteem, self-efficacy, physical activity, and functional health status of adults with obesity. A one-group withinsubjects, pre-test post-test study design was used. The study took place at the University of Western Ontario from June-October 2007. A total of 20 men and women aged 35-55, with a BMI ≥ 30 participated in the study. Each engaged in six to eight 35-minute sessions with a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach during which they explored desired changes and how to achieve them. Paired t-tests were used to analyse the pre- and post-quantitative data and inductive content analysis was used to assess the qualitative interviews. Significant decreases in waist circumference and increases in self-esteem and functional health status were found. Qualitatively, participants reported an increase in daily physical activity and healthier dietary choices, feelings of optimism, and greater self-acceptance. Thus life coaching shows promise as an obesity intervention, although more research is needed.
ISSN:1741-8305