Obesity has reached epidemic proportions throughout the world. According to the World Health Organization, more than 1 billion adults are overweight. This epidemic has far reaching consequences.

Associated with this obesity epidemic is a significant rise in the number of people being treated for Type 2 Diabetes, heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and some forms of cancer.

The obesity epidemic has been associated with people eating foods that are high in fat, high in sugar, high in calories and low in nutritional content combined with minimal physical activity. With so many choices of packaged foods, nutritional supplements, dietary gimmicks it can be confusing for people to know what to eat and how to take control of their health and wellness. Being overweight leads to low energy, low self-esteem, high risk for major medical problems and decreased vitality, people in this state find it difficult to have the energy and desire to make change and the vicious cycle continues.

A weight loss coach can walk you through these lifestyle and mindset changes step by step to create the body you desire, increase your energy level and improve your overall health and wellness. It is very important to select a weight loss coach who will help you work towards your goals and create permanent healthy habits.

To select a weight loss coach consider evaluating these 4 key areas:

1. Select a coach you feel you can connect with. The key to successful coaching is the coaching relationship. Coaching is a relationship between the client and coach. It is through this powerful coaching relationship that leads to life changing transformation. When selecting a coach, it is important that you feel comfortable sharing your feelings in an open and honest manner. The coaching relationship is built on confidentiality, trust, honesty and open communication. You must select a coach that you feel 100% comfortable discussing your personal issues so you can uncover what is keeping you from achieving your goals and work towards breaking through those obstacles to reach your weight loss goals.

2. Select a coach who has been trained for at least one year in a reputable coaching program. There is no regulation in the coaching industry. Anyone can call themselves a coach and go into business. As you interview coaches, question them on their training program and what was covered during their program. Also ask them what their experience with weight loss is and ask to speak to some clients for references.

3. Select a coach who has a well-balanced approach to weight loss. There are multiple factors which lead to obesity, therefore a one size fits all program is typically not successful for weight loss. Find a coach who will assess your lifestyle and family history as a whole and will create a step by step program that is unique for your needs.

4. Request a free coaching session to evaluate a coach and experience their coaching style. The session should be at least 30 minutes of coaching, not of selling you their program. This will allow you the opportunity to experience their coaching style, personality, skill and knowledge of weight loss.

Once you have found a weight loss coach, be prepared to commit to making changes in your life to reach your goals. The coach is there to offer you support, encouragement and education, but ultimately the success of your weight loss program depends on your level of commitment and following through on your baby steps every week.