3 Biggest MYTHS About Preparing for the NBHWC Board Exam – And the FACTS to Help You Pass!
Preparing for the NBHWC (National Board-Certified Health & Wellness Coach) exam can feel overwhelming. There's so much to learn, and with so many sources of advice, it's easy to get lost in a sea of misinformation. Let's clear up some of the biggest myths and arm you with the facts to ensure you confidently pass the exam!
Myth #1: "Memorizing the concepts is enough to pass the exam."
✨ Fact: The NBHWC Board exam is all about application. It's not enough to memorize concepts—you must know how to use them in real-life coaching situations. The exam evaluates your ability to:
Utilize coaching skills, tools, and theories effectively in practice.
Utilize assessments and biometric data correctly within real-world coaching scenarios.
Make informed decisions in coaching situations by considering ethical and legal guidelines, the client's stage of change, personal goals, vision, and the appropriate coaching strategies (theories).
In short, the exam tests how well you can use what you've learned in an actual coaching environment. So, studying isn't just about memorizing facts; it's about understanding how to apply your knowledge.
Nerd Tip:
PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE! The Health Nerds full-length practice exam is a great way to assess your readiness and familiarize yourself with the questions you'll face. Using a scenario-based practice exam that identifies gaps in your knowledge and pinpoints the related core competency is crucial.
A few exam prep areas require memorization, and we review these in detail in our course. One critical area is the KTN free biometric guide, which helps you master the Section 3 health and wellness concepts efficiently.
Myth #2: "I need to wait until after the exam to start coaching."
✨ Fact: You don't need to wait until you've passed the exam to start coaching! Coaching while studying is one of the best ways to solidify your understanding of the material. By applying coaching concepts as you learn them, you build a hands-on experience that directly impacts your exam preparation.
The more you coach, the better you'll recognize when and how to apply different skills, tools, and techniques—like you'll need to do on the exam.
Nerd Tip: Pay close attention to coaching theories during your practice sessions. When coaching or having conversations, ask yourself:
What stage of change is this person in right now? What stage of the coaching structure/process is this client currently in?
What questions or reflections are appropriate in this stage?
Recognizing these patterns in real-time will help reinforce your learning and prepare you for exam scenarios.
Myth #3: "I can pass the exam by reading books and reviewing my certification materials."
✨ Fact: While reading books and reviewing your course certification material is essential, it's not enough to guarantee success on the exam. To pass, you need a structured study plan that efficiently covers all the core competencies.
Too many resources can be overwhelming—that's where Health Nerds come in! Instead of drowning in books, focus on the NBHWC Core Competencies Outline. The Health Nerds did the research for you, breaking down each core competency in detail so you don't waste valuable time. Each competency is cited and referenced. Our program reduces stress, saves time, and gives you the exact information you need to pass.
The exam is comprehensive, and studying without a straightforward approach can leave you feeling lost. A well-organized study course, like the one provided by Health Nerds, ensures you're not just reviewing materials but mastering them with a targeted plan.
Nerd Tip:
A focused study plan keeps you on track. The Health Nerds Course includes a library of recommended resources and optional deeper learning opportunities to help you stay on track. Here are our top two book recommendations:
Moore, M., Jackson, E., & Tschannen-Moran, B. (2016). Coaching psychology manual (2nd ed.). Wolters Kluwer.
Miller, W. R., & Rollnick, S. (2023). Motivational interviewing: Helping people change (4th ed.). Guilford Press.
Why these Myths Are Hindering Your Exam Prep
Let's take a moment to consider the facts: passing the NBHWC Board Exam involves more than simply memorizing information; it requires a true understanding of how to apply coaching techniques in real-world situations.
The Nerdy Reality:
This is an application-based exam, so be prepared to demonstrate your knowledge in practice.
Studying with a coaching perspective and mindset of the "coach approach first" will enhance your comprehension.
Studying while actively coaching will build your coaching skills and exam performance.
A well-structured study plan that focuses on core competencies is essential for success.
You’ve invested time, money, and energy into becoming a coach. Make sure you’re fully prepared to pass the exam with a study plan that works for you. Refer to “How to Prepare for the NBHWC Board Exam: A 5-Step Guide” blog to help you get set up and on track! The Health Nerds are here to help with all the tools and resources you need to succeed. Whether it’s the Comprehensive Study Bundle, practice exams, study guides, or personalized tips, we’ve got your back every step of the way!
What Myth has been holding you back? Let us know in the comments how this post is helpful to get exam day ready!