ACE Health Coach Certification Practice Test 2026 - Free Health Coach Certification Practice Questions and Study Guide

The maintenance stage of change is part of the Transtheoretical Model, which describes how individuals progress through different stages when making behavior changes. The stage that precedes maintenance is the action stage.

During the action stage, individuals actively implement their strategies to achieve behavior change. This stage involves taking specific actions to modify their behaviors and is characterized by a commitment to the new behavior, often requiring substantial effort and dedication. Success in this stage sets the foundation for reaching the maintenance stage, where individuals work to sustain their behavior change over time and prevent relapse.

Understanding this progression is crucial for health coaches, as it allows them to tailor their support based on where an individual is in their change journey. Supporting clients during the action stage helps reinforce their commitment and prepares them for the challenges they may face in maintaining their new behaviors.