In 2018 I knew I wanted to do more with my career. I was fed up with being stuck in a 9-5 office job and wanted to do something more meaningful, and that’s when I came across a health coach training program.

Having always been interested in nutrition and fitness I decided to take to Google to see what my options were. And there it was……health coaching!

I’d never heard of health coaching before, but as soon as I started to read more I knew this was the right path for me. I still researched the hell out of it though! I joined IIN in 2019 and graduated in 2020. This is my honest review and my opinions are my own. I know how helpful reviews can be to help you decide if this is right for you.

Health coach training: What is IIN?

The Institute of Integrative Nutrition is one of the oldest nutrition schools around. It’s been going for nearly 30 years and is based in New York. They’ve been online-based only for a number of years now, but they used to hold classes live.

When signing up for the health coach training program (HCTP) you can choose from either a six-month intensive course or one year. The only difference is you get two modules a week instead of one if you choose the accelerated course.

The program focuses on bio-individuality. There are no one size fits. And you’ll learn about different nutrition theories, coaching techniques, and what IIN call primary foods. Focusing on holistic health you’ll cover many different areas of health and wellness and learn that good health is not all about food.

Is IIN a good program?

This is a tricky question, as it depends on what you want to get from it. The HCTP provides you with a wide range of knowledge. If you’re looking to focus on nutrition, then you’ll likely want a more in-depth course. This program does not qualify you to call yourself a nutritionist or a dietician.

With IIN you’re learning about different areas of health and that there is no one right way of eating or living your life. You’re offered a broad range of subjects so you can make your own informed decision and carry out further training.

My year studying with IIN was amazing. I learned so much and it’s made such a difference to me and my family’s way of living. The community with IIN is one of the best things. You get to connect with like-minded people who’re all there to support you on your journey. Plus they’re all over the world!

I’m part of a group of six ladies who still have regular calls today. I’m lucky to have these lovely ladies for support and mentoring. I highly recommend making sure you get involved in the community.

How does the course work?

Each week (except over holidays) a new module is released (two if you’re doing the six-month program). The module includes workbooks and video lectures to go through. You can expect teachers like Dr. Mark Hyman, Gabrielle Bernstein, Dr. Andrew Weil, Andrea Beaman, Lissa Rankin, Deepak Chopra, and many more.

You’ll learn about nutrition, coaching, marketing, and primary foods like relationships, spirituality, and home life.

Towards the end of your course, there are coaching circles. This is a group of up to six students who are led by an experienced IIN health coach. I was really nervous about these, but they were brilliant and really helpful and inspiring.

Graduation requirements include having to pass two out of four tests and attending at least four of the six coaching calls.

Is being a health coach worth it?

If you’re interested in learning more about how you can help yourself and your family be healthier and/or create a career for yourself helping other people, then 100% I believe it is.

But be prepared to do further training and put in the work. You’ll only get out of it what you put in.

If you’re interested in finding out more information I answer some IIN frequently asked questions or please email me jo@joannewilkes.com and I’ll be happy to book a 30-minute call to discuss any questions you have.

** Disclaimer: As an ambassador for the Institute of Integrative Nutrition, if you sign up with a link or use my name I do get a small fee. This is at no extra cost to you. My opinions are all my own.