Get to Know Your AteMate Coach -Dr. Erin Nitschke

Hello AteMate Readers! My name is Dr. Erin Nitschke and I'm an ACE Certified Health Coach and Personal Trainer. I've been in the health and fitness industry since 2003. I have practical experience as a personal trainer and health coach, exercise physiologist, NIH grant manager, and exercise science college professor. Most recently, I have been part of a project team to conceptualize, build, and launch a global mentorship program for health and exercise professionals.

Even before becoming a professional, I've been driven by a mission to help others live their best life -- whatever that might mean to each individual I coach, train, or teach. Get to know me and learn a bit about my approach to working with clients.

A Day in the Life of Your Coach

I start my day at 5:30 a.m., get my workout in, fuel up with a power breakfast, get the kids ready for the day, and head to work. I'm a full-time science program director at a community college, with many varying 'side hustles' in the industry. My work life is dynamic, and I rarely know what to expect each day -- other than the fact that I'll enjoy it and hopefully make a difference to those in my presence. At the end of the day, I enjoy the quiet time with my family, cooking dinner together, and discussing whatever the day has presented to each of us. I can't think of a better way to live and love life.

Fun Facts

1. Far more introverted than extroverted 2. An avid reader of various genres 3. A true "science nerd" to my core and have a commitment to never stop learning 4. Love to try new recipes and make fun meals with my kids 5. I love writing articles related to health, physical activity, and nutrition 6. My favorite drink is English Breakfast Tea 7. I love to look for beauty in unexpected places 8. I believe in sinking deeply into the unapologetic realness of who we are 9. I have four dogs and one cat -- and I always wish for more 10. I grew up in Wyoming 11. If I could live in any other country, I'd choose Italy or Switzerland 12. I love a cabin escape 13. I enjoy public speaking at national events in health and exercise 14. I have a goal to start a podcast or pursue a second master's in nutrition 15. I have a deep passion for listening to others and their stories

My Philosophy

I believe in the power of a holistic approach to healthy living. Living an active and balanced lifestyle is not defined or limited by physical stamina, muscle size, or outward appearance; it means finding an equilibrium between all dimensions of wellness. It's not simply about "hitting the gym"; it's about discovering inner strength, harnessing personal potential, and exercising the courage to pursue a meaningful goal. It's not about perfection; it's about progress.

My Favorite Topic to Discuss with Clients -- How to Dismiss Diet Culture

As a health coach, I see firsthand how diet culture fosters an unhealthy, all-or-nothing mindset around food and body image. It promotes restrictive eating, guilt, and unsustainable quick fixes rather than long-term, balanced habits. This can lead to cycles of deprivation and bingeing, increased stress around food, and even disordered eating patterns. Instead of supporting true well-being, diet culture disconnects people from their body's natural cues, making nutrition feel like a set of rigid rules rather than a tool for nourishment. This is one of the many reasons I focus on taking a holistic approach in order to help clients break free from diet culture and develop a long-term healthy relationship with food.

Some of My Top Favorite Lifestyle Reads

• Brain Rules by John Medina

• The Joy Choice by Dr. Michelle Segar

• Forever Strong by Dr. Gabrielle Lyon

How to Connect with Me

Find me on Instagram at @nitschkeerin. I hope to hear from you! Always feel free to connect!

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Dr. Erin Nitschke is a professor of exercise science at Laramie County Community College. She holds certifications including NFPT-CPT, NSCA-CPT, ACE Health Coach, Fitness Nutrition Specialist, Therapeutic Exercise Specialist, and Pn1. Erin is an editorial author for IDEA, NFPT, where she writes regularly on topics related to personal training and health coach skill building, behavior change, and career success.