Meet Katy Coughlin, applying her knowledge of exercise physiology and fitness in order to develop successful corporate wellness programs and provide education of healthy behavior to employees. – Sarah

Sarah Koszyk, MA, RD: What attracted you to the field of fitness and exercise? Katy Coughlin, BS: As the Director, I take responsibility for the daily operations of staff management, as well as perform health screens and exercise tests. Each day I expand my knowledge of health and program implementation, while influencing the community to adopt life altering defense mechanisms and changes to improve their quality of life. In addition, I educate practices of healthy behavior and lifestyle modifications to meet fitness needs.  I ensure the highest quality of care is delivered to all members.

Your Job Title? Riddle Hospital Site Director Company you are with now? CardioKinetics

Website: Cardiokinetics.com http://www.mainlinehealth.org/oth/Page.asp?PageID=OTH000594

A typical (or not so typical) day-in-the-work-life for you? Manage Wellness Center staff, monitor budget performance and development, schedule employees monthly. Perform initial assessments including baseline readings of heart rate, blood pressure, height, weight and waist girth measurements. Test each module of fitness including cardiovascular condition, flexibility, muscular strength and muscular endurance. Deliver and explain statistical data of fitness assessment outcomes with the provision of exercise prescription and program recommendations to members and clients. Develop corporate-base health programs including Yoga, Pilates, Zumba, Prenatal Yoga, Boot Camps, Cardiac Fitness, and Diabetic education.Lecture Riddle Hospital employees, community members, and Wellness Center members on emerging fitness trends, healthy behavior, and preventative measures against chronic diseases.

How did you get your current job in fitness and exercise? I researched through internet applications/companies. 

What skills were you born with and what skills have you learned along the way? Throughout my career, I have developed and maintained a professional rapport with members, including over 55 five individual clients. I perform initial assessments and explain statistical data of fitness assessment outcomes.  I learned to asses and grade functional movement patterns, asymmetries, and limitations to evaluate exercise readiness to restore mechanically sound movement patterns and effective treatment plans. My experiences have taught me to empathize with those who have suffered from different health events and also how to develop day-to-day regimens to get patients back their original lifestyle.

What advice do you have for others wanting to be just as successful and fulfilled as you? Volunteer! Absorb as much information as possible! Never stop learning! Get outside of your comfort zone. Empathize with others; show a true interest in helping someone achieve their goal! If you could be paid for your job with something other than a paycheck, what would it be? Education! Seminars, workshops, continuing educations credits!

Sarah Koszyk, MA, RDN, is a Registered Dietitian and Sports Nutritionist specializing in Weight Management and Sports Nutrition for youth and adults. She writes articles for multiple publications, provides customized nutrition coaching, and is a brand spokesperson. She is founder of Family. Food. Fiesta.Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn.