1-on-1 vs. Group Nutrition Coaching: Which One is Right for Me?


In the previous two parts of this series, we shared how to enjoy holiday foods to the fullest and why the off-season is the best time to focus on your body composition goals. While we hope these articles and other content is helpful, sometimes you might want to dive deeper into optimizing nutrition to improve your performance, health, or both. In which case, expert coaching from a sports dietitian would be the way to go. Let’s take a look at the differences between 1-on-1 and group nutrition coaching.

How can I benefit from nutrition coaching?

A lot of clients come to me when they’ve decided to commit to training and racing and have big goals. This could be a new thing for them, and they might not know how to fuel the increase in mileage and intensity that a new program demands. Or, perhaps a more seasoned athlete who has been competitive for several years could be working with a running, cycling, or triathlon coach, have dialed in other areas of performance, but never focused on nutrition. Another reason why people reach out is that they’re struggling with a serious acute or chronic injury and think that eating better could help, but don’t know how. Or maybe they are stuck on a plateau or have seen their training paces and finish times stall.

What do my clients like best about 1-on-1 nutrition coaching?

1-on-1 coaching is great for anyone looking to improve their nutrition and is also looking for accountability and a personalized approach. One of the advantages is that you’ll receive more dedicated and personalized attention from me on an ongoing basis. We’ll also be able to take a comprehensive view of your previous training, racing, and injury history and see exactly where you’re at currently with your eating and supplementation. Then we can map out a plan for how to move forward to reach your goals. This is a good option if you do better in 1-on-1 conversations, rather than in a group setting, have a complex medical history, or feel like you need more accountability. 

Depending on the package you choose, we’ll have weekly calls or email check-ins. These will be very personalized to your needs, lifestyle, and goals. We can focus on performance nutrition, hydration, body composition, food allergies, or whatever you need. Over time, we can change directions or explore other areas as needed. I believe in creating lasting relationships that continue to deliver long-term value and welcome the chance to team up. 

If you’re interested in a personalized, 1-on-1 plan, the first step is to complete an application to get on the waitlist. Then as soon as possible, our team will contact you to get going once a spot opens up.

When is group coaching the right fit?

Clients often come into one of my nutrition coaching groups seeking the education and community that a team environment provides. It’s an opportunity to not only learn about and apply sound nutritional principles to training, racing, and life, but also to develop new friendships and a lasting support system. Athletes who’ve typically trained alone often come alive in this group setting, as they welcome being part of a tight-knit community of runners who are pursuing similar performance goals. This option might be best if you need more encouragement, like to hear other people’s suggestions and experiences while sharing your own, and respond well in a class environment. 

My group program features weekly live classes taught by me, which are also recorded in case you have a scheduling conflict or want to re-watch a session later on-demand. Each class topic focuses on an aspect of performance nutrition and hydration that will prepare you to train for and race in half and full marathons. In addition to class sessions, there are weekly slides, tools, and homework to supplement the course content. We offer support via a private Slack channel and there’s an opportunity to be as much or as little involved as you like and your lifestyle allows. 

We have new race and distance-specific groups opening up now for 2023. Fueled for Boston is for anyone running Boston 2023, and we’re also offering spring half or full marathon coaching that’s best for races after April 11, 2023. Click here to learn more and sign up today!

No matter what level of nutrition coaching you are looking for, we have something for you! Not interested in coaching just yet but want some help gearing up for a specific race? Take a look at our Customized Nutrition Plans or apply for a one-time consultation. And make sure you are taking advantage of our free resources: Instagram, carb loading, hydration, race day fueling & recovery.


Disclaimer: The content in our blog articles provides generalized nutrition guidance. The information above may not apply to everyone. For personalized recommendations, please reach out to your sports dietitian. Individuals who may chose to implement nutrition changes agree that Featherstone Nutrition is not responsible for any injury, damage or loss related to those changes or participation.