Your Questions, Answered
We know you’ve probably been burned by programs that overpromised and underdelivered. So before you book anything, here are honest answers to the questions we hear most. If something isn’t covered here, our free consult is the place to ask.
About Beyond the Box Nutrition
Is coaching done virtually? How does it work?
Yes, everything is 100% virtual. After you book a free consult, we’ll get clear on your goals and match you with the right coaching track. From there, all sessions happen via Zoom or phone, and you’ll have ongoing support between sessions through messaging and check-ins. You can work with us from anywhere in the world.
The only in-person services we offer are Gwen’s in-home nutrition & kitchen consultations in the Bay area.
What happens in a free consult?
It’s a real conversation, not a sales pitch. We’ll talk about where you are, what you’ve tried, what’s been getting in the way, and what you actually want. From there, we’ll let you know if we’re the right fit and which coaching option makes the most sense for your goals.
How much does coaching cost?
We believe in full transparency, which is why pricing is listed directly on our website, no awkward conversations required.
There’s a 3-month minimum for nutrition coaching and a 1-month minimum for fitness coaching. We don’t accept insurance, but many clients use FSA or HSA funds to cover coaching costs, which is worth exploring.
How long do clients typically work with you?
It depends on your goals, and that’s a good thing. Some clients work with us for a few months, others longer. Our goal isn’t to keep you forever. It’s to help you see real results, build genuine confidence in your ability to sustain them, and eventually not need us anymore. Everything we do is oriented toward that.
Do you work with women who aren't in perimenopause?
Absolutely. While perimenopause and menopause are areas we specialize in, we work with clients at all stages of life who are ready to build sustainable health habits. If you’re not sure whether we’re the right fit, book a free consult and we’ll tell you honestly.
Why can't my doctor help me with this?
Most providers are trained to treat symptoms, not coach daily habits. They rarely have the time (or the training) to help you translate nutrition and lifestyle changes into real life.
We review labs to look at the full picture, because if we don’t know what’s going on inside your body, we can’t build an effective plan for the outside. We work alongside your medical team, not instead of them.
How is your coaching different from other programs?
With us, you won’t find any rigid meal plans, Keto or other fad diets, cleanses, or punishing yourself into results. We use a flexible eating approach — nutrient-dense most of the time, with real room for real food the rest of the time. We also bring a mindset coaching component that most programs skip entirely, because knowing what to do is rarely the actual problem.
How does your background as competitive athletes influence your coaching?
We know what it feels like to be coached well — and coached poorly. The same principles that helped us navigate losses, setbacks, and pressure as athletes inform how we show up for clients: with honesty, compassion, and a deep belief that progress is always possible.
Can I trust you if you haven't walked in my shoes?
We’ve both struggled with our weight, hormonal shifts, and the mental toll that comes with them. We’ve worked with coaches ourselves. We’re speaking from experience, not just theory. And we know that real empathy matters more than having an identical story to yours.
Perimenopause & menopause
Why is it harder to lose weight during perimenopause and menopause?
Because your body is changing hormonally in ways that affect almost everything — fat storage, muscle mass, sleep, hunger cues, and metabolism. If what used to work isn’t working anymore, you’re not imagining it and you’re not failing. The approach needs to change, not your effort level.
Is weight gain during menopause inevitable?
Common? Yes. Inevitable? No. The old “calories in, calories out” model becomes less effective when hormones are running the show, and it’s not just estrogen and progesterone. Insulin, thyroid, and cortisol all play a role. With the right strategy, meaningful change is absolutely possible. It just requires a different approach, not more of what wasn’t working.
Why am I gaining weight around my midsection?
Hormonal shifts can redirect fat storage toward the abdomen. Add in chronic stress and disrupted sleep — both common in perimenopause — and it compounds. The solution isn’t endless core work. It’s a combination of strength training, nutrition, and lifestyle support that addresses the real drivers.
Can I still build muscle and get stronger during menopause?
Yes, and it’s one of the most important things you can do. Strength training in menopause supports your metabolism, protects bone density, improves energy, and builds the kind of physical confidence that carries into every part of your life. It is never too late to start.
GLP-1 medications
Can you support me if I'm taking a GLP-1 medication like Wegovy or Zepbound?
Yes, and coaching during this time is especially valuable. Medication can help reduce appetite, but it doesn’t build the habits that make results last. We make sure you’re eating enough protein, maintaining muscle, and developing the behaviors that will carry you through and beyond the medication.
Do I still need to focus on nutrition if I'm on a weight loss medication?
Yes, absolutely. Without intentional nutrition support — especially adequate protein — you risk losing muscle alongside fat. We make sure your body is getting what it needs to come out of this stronger, not just lighter.
Mindset & behavior change
What role does mindset play in your coaching?
A significant one. Knowing what to do is rarely the real problem. The thoughts, patterns, and beliefs underneath the behavior are often keeping people stuck. We work on both, without judgment. Most clients notice positive shifts across all areas of their lives, not just their health.
How do I stay consistent with healthy habits?
You make them realistic enough to actually repeat. Consistency isn’t about being perfect — it’s about not quitting every time life gets inconvenient. We help you build a foundation that can flex without falling apart.
What if I've tried everything and nothing works?
You’ve probably tried a lot of diets, but not necessarily a personalized strategy built around how your body actually works right now. Diets fail people, not the other way around. We figure out what works for you specifically.
Book a free call
Grab a time on our calendar for your free consult
