ACE Behavior Change Specialist cheat sheet
ACE Behavior Change Specialist · Keep the key ideas within reach.
Behavior Change Coaching
Transtheoretical Model stages: precontemplation (no intention within 6 months), contemplation (intention within 6 months), preparation (intention within 30 days, some action), action (changed behavior within 6 months), maintenance (sustained >6 months).
Self-Determination Theory: autonomous motivation (identified, integrated) predicts long-term adherence better than controlled motivation (external, introjected); support autonomy, competence, and relatedness.
SMART goal criteria: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound; process goals (e.g., attend 3 sessions/week) are more controllable than outcome goals (e.g., lose 10 lb).
Social Cognitive Theory: self-efficacy is the strongest predictor of behavior; sources are mastery experiences, vicarious experience, verbal persuasion, and physiological states.
Motivational interviewing: OARS skills (open questions, affirmations, reflections, summaries); avoid the righting reflex; change talk (desire, ability, reasons, need) predicts behavior change.
Stages of change interventions: precontemplation-raise awareness; contemplation-explore ambivalence; preparation-develop action plan; action-reinforce self-efficacy; maintenance-relapse prevention.
Relapse is a normal part of the change process, not a failure; use it as a learning opportunity and revisit the action plan without judgment.
Behavioral conditioning: positive reinforcement adds a desirable stimulus to increase behavior; negative reinforcement removes an aversive stimulus to increase behavior; punishment decreases behavior.
Coaching scope: behavior change coaches use goal setting, self-monitoring, and social support; they do not diagnose or treat medical or psychological conditions.
Health and Fitness Professional Practice
Scope of practice: behavior change specialists may coach lifestyle habits (physical activity, nutrition, sleep, stress) but must refer for medical diagnosis, prescription, and psychological treatment.
Informed consent must be obtained before coaching begins and should cover confidentiality, fees, risks, benefits, and the client's right to withdraw.
Documentation: keep records of goals, progress, and referrals; store securely and retain per legal and organizational policy.
Professional boundaries: avoid dual relationships, do not provide services outside competence, and refer when a client's needs exceed your qualifications.
Risk management: screen for red flags (chest pain, dizziness, uncontrolled conditions) and refer to a physician before proceeding with exercise or nutrition changes.
Confidentiality: disclose client information only with written permission or when required by law (e.g., imminent harm, abuse reporting).
Ethical decision-making: identify the problem, consider stakeholders, review codes of ethics and laws, consult, decide, and document.
Continuing education and certification maintenance are required to stay current and maintain credentialing.
Business practice: use clear contracts, set payment and cancellation policies in advance, and carry professional liability insurance.