ISSA Nutritionist study guide
ISSA Nutritionist · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The ISSA Certified Nutrition Coach is a standalone, 100% online nutrition certification from ISSA, an online fitness education company based in Phoenix, Arizona. It is aimed at two audiences: existing fitness professionals who want to add nutrition coaching to a training business, and career changers starting fresh. No prior fitness certification is required to enroll. The curriculum is organized around five areas: macronutrients and micronutrients; metabolism and energy balance; nutrition guidance and goal-based coaching for fat loss, muscle gain, athletic performance and general wellness; behavioral coaching and habit change, including the psychology of food choices; and client assessment and communication across diverse populations. The ISSA Nutritionist study guide has 5 sections and about 1,675 words.
01Macronutrients & Micronutrients
The Macronutrients & Micronutrients domain tests whether you can translate food into energy and building blocks, and whether you can spot deficiencies and excesses. Expect calculations, food-source comparisons, and questions on digestion, absorption, and bioavailability.
325 words, about 2 min02Metabolism & Energy Balance
Metabolism & Energy Balance tests your ability to estimate how many calories a client burns and how to change intake or output to move weight in the intended direction. Questions cover BMR versus RMR, the components of TDEE, prediction equations, and the realities of metabolic adaptation.
333 words, about 2 min03Nutrition Guidance & Goal-Based Coaching
Nutrition Guidance & Goal-Based Coaching tests whether you can convert assessment data into practical calorie, macro, and behavior targets, set collaborative goals, and adjust the plan without stepping outside your scope. Start with the client's goal, timeline, and constraints, then set calories before macros.
350 words, about 2 min04Behavioral Coaching & Habit Change
Behavioral Coaching & Habit Change tests your ability to help clients act on nutrition knowledge. Expect questions on readiness, motivational interviewing, habit design, self-determination theory, and relapse handling.
318 words, about 2 min05Client Assessment & Communication
Client Assessment & Communication tests the intake process: what to collect, how to interpret it, and how to talk with clients so the plan is accurate, safe, and usable. Expect screening, dietary assessment methods, anthropometrics, and communication technique.
349 words, about 2 min