The Impact Of Coaching
The graphs below illustrate the % improvements (perceived or measured) by participants in studies looking at the effects of coaching. Please click on each section if you would like more information.
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Sustained behaviour improvements like better nutrition, physical activity, and self-care habits were reported in up to 90% of participants across multiple studies.
Source: Olsen & Nesbitt, 2010.
Key Finding: Improved weight management, physical activity, and adherence to medication regimes.
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Studies show significant increases in emotional regulation and the ability to manage stress in 85% of participants.
Source: Grant, 2003.
Key Finding: Increased ability to manage stress, recover from challenges and regulate emotions.
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Coaching helped 75% of participants improve self-management of chronic conditions, reducing hospital admissions and improving quality of life.
Key Finding: Significant benefits in self-care and disease management behaviours.
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Mental health improvements, including reduced anxiety and better mindfulness, were observed in 80% of coaching clients.
Source: Spence et al., 2008.
Key Finding: Reduction in anxiety and enhanced mindfulness.
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Nearly all clients (95%) reported increased clarity in life direction and meaningful goal-setting, as found in patient-centred coaching programmes.
Source: Neuner-Jehle et al., 2013.
Key Finding: Coaching helped participants set meaningful goals and align actions with values.
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Coaching-driven behaviour change, such as improved exercise habits, led to better energy levels in 80% of participants.
Source: Edman et al., 2019.
Key Finding: Increased physical activity correlating with improved energy levels.
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Stress reduction and mindfulness training through coaching improved sleep quality for 75% of clients.
Source: Spence et al., 2008.
Key Finding: Reduced stress levels improve sleep patterns.
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Emotional intelligence and communication skills improved in 70% of clients, enhancing relationships.
Source: Nowack & Niemirowski, 2021.
Key Finding: Improved interpersonal skills and empathy.
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Physical activity improvements and positive body perception were reported by 65% of coaching participants.
Source: Oliveira et al., 2017.
Key Finding: Increased physical activity improves body satisfaction and confidence.
Acknowledging The Limitations Of Coaching Research
I am committed to providing transparent and evidence-based information about the benefits of coaching. While the data presented on this website reflects robust research and peer-reviewed studies, it is important to acknowledge the following limitations:
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Coaching outcomes can vary significantly based on individual circumstances, including personal goals, health status, and commitment to the coaching process. While studies provide valuable insights, results may not apply uniformly to all clients.
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The evidence cited includes a mix of observational studies, randomised controlled trials, and self-reported data. While these are credible sources, some findings rely on subjective measures (e.g., happiness, energy levels), which can vary across studies and populations.
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Coaching is a growing field, and while current studies show promising results, more longitudinal and large-scale research is needed to fully understand its long-term impact and effectiveness.
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Many benefits attributed to coaching—such as improved physical activity, better sleep, and enhanced relationships—are influenced by multiple factors, including environmental changes, social support, and personal motivation. Coaching is one piece of a larger puzzle.
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Coaching provides tools, guidance, and accountability, but individual results depend on the client’s engagement and application of learned strategies. Outcomes such as disease prevention or life transformation cannot be guaranteed.
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Categories such as "perceived happiness," "body confidence," and "relationships" rely on personal perception, which may be influenced by factors outside of coaching.