Evidence-Based Nutrition for Coaches and Trainers Course

Lesson 1 • Digestion and Nutrient Absorption

Traces the path of food from ingestion to cellular uptake. Helps coaches understand why food quality and timing affect nutrient availability.

Lesson 2 • Reading and Evaluating Nutrition Labels

Teaches practical label literacy including serving sizes, ingredient lists, and nutrient claims. Prepares coaches to guide clients in making informed food choices.

Lesson 3 • Macronutrients and Their Roles

Covers the structure, caloric value, and metabolic function of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Establishes the baseline needed for all subsequent dietary planning.

Lesson 4 • Micronutrients and Phytonutrients

Examines vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds critical to health and performance. Connects micronutrient adequacy to training outcomes and recovery.

Lesson 1 • Common Research Biases and Limitations

Identifies selection bias, recall bias, and industry funding effects in nutrition research. Prevents coaches from over-applying flawed or industry-skewed findings.

Lesson 2 • Hierarchy of Scientific Evidence

Ranks study designs from case reports to systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Coaches learn which evidence types justify strong recommendations.

Lesson 3 • Reading and Critiquing Research Papers

Breaks down abstract, methods, results, and discussion sections of nutrition studies. Equips coaches to assess study quality before applying findings.

Lesson 1 • Metabolic Adaptation and Plateaus

Explains adaptive thermogenesis, hormonal shifts, and behavioral responses to prolonged deficits. Coaches use this knowledge to troubleshoot stalled client progress.

Lesson 2 • Total Daily Energy Expenditure

Breaks down resting metabolic rate, thermic effect of food, and activity expenditure. Coaches learn to estimate caloric needs accurately for different client profiles.

Lesson 3 • Body Composition Assessment Methods

Compares skinfold calipers, bioelectrical impedance, DEXA, and circumference measures. Coaches select appropriate tools based on accuracy needs and client access.

Lesson 4 • Caloric Surplus and Deficit Strategies

Defines evidence-based deficit and surplus ranges for fat loss and muscle gain. Coaches apply rate-of-change targets that preserve lean mass and performance.

Lesson 1 • Carbohydrate Periodization Strategies

Matches carbohydrate intake to training load using periodization models. Coaches optimize glycogen availability without unnecessary caloric excess.

Lesson 2 • Protein Requirements for Athletes

Reviews research on protein dose, timing, and source quality for muscle protein synthesis. Coaches set protein targets that maximize adaptation across training phases.

Lesson 3 • Building a Macronutrient Plan

Walks through a step-by-step process for calculating and distributing macros for a client. Coaches produce complete, individualized macronutrient prescriptions.

Lesson 4 • Macronutrient Ratio Myths and Evidence

Evaluates popular ratio-based diets against controlled research on outcomes. Coaches distinguish marketing claims from evidence-supported macronutrient frameworks.

Lesson 1 • Pre-Workout Nutrition Principles

Defines optimal macronutrient composition and timing windows before training sessions. Coaches prevent energy deficits and GI distress that impair performance.

Lesson 2 • Meal Frequency and Distribution

Evaluates evidence on meal frequency effects on body composition and muscle retention. Coaches design meal structures that optimize protein distribution and adherence.

Lesson 3 • Intra-Workout Fueling

Covers carbohydrate and electrolyte needs during prolonged or high-intensity sessions. Coaches apply fueling strategies that sustain output without GI issues.

Lesson 4 • Post-Workout Recovery Nutrition

Reviews the anabolic window concept and evidence on post-exercise protein and carbohydrate timing. Coaches prioritize recovery strategies that fit real-world schedules.

Lesson 1 • Physiology of Fluid Balance

Explains osmolality, fluid compartments, and hormonal regulation of hydration status. Provides the physiological foundation for all practical hydration recommendations.

Lesson 2 • Fluid and Electrolyte Replacement

Sets evidence-based fluid intake targets and electrolyte replacement strategies for training and competition. Coaches prevent both dehydration and overhydration.

Lesson 3 • Assessing Hydration Status

Covers urine color, body weight changes, and plasma osmolality as hydration markers. Coaches select practical field-based tools for monitoring client hydration.

Lesson 1 • Tier-One Evidence Supplements

Reviews creatine, caffeine, beta-alanine, and nitrates with strong performance evidence. Coaches apply correct dosing, timing, and population-specific guidance.

Lesson 2 • Building a Supplement Decision Framework

Provides a structured process for evaluating any supplement using evidence quality, safety, and cost. Coaches apply this framework to new products entering the market.

Lesson 3 • Supplement Regulation and Safety

Explains how supplements are regulated differently from pharmaceuticals and the risks of contamination. Coaches apply third-party testing criteria when evaluating products.

Lesson 4 • Protein Supplements and Amino Acids

Compares whey, casein, plant-based, and essential amino acid products against whole-food protein. Coaches determine when supplemental protein adds genuine value.

Lesson 1 • Overcoming Common Adherence Barriers

Identifies time, cost, social pressure, and emotional eating as top adherence obstacles. Coaches develop personalized strategies to address each barrier type.

Lesson 2 • Motivational Interviewing Techniques

Teaches open-ended questioning, reflective listening, and ambivalence resolution for nutrition conversations. Coaches elicit intrinsic motivation rather than imposing directives.

Lesson 3 • Monitoring Progress and Adjusting Plans

Establishes check-in protocols, progress metrics, and decision rules for plan adjustments. Coaches maintain client momentum through data-driven, empathetic feedback.

Lesson 4 • Behavior Change Models in Nutrition

Introduces transtheoretical, self-determination, and habit loop models applied to dietary behavior. Coaches match intervention strategies to each client's readiness stage.