Abby Horbach
I’m Abby Horbach, a certified personal trainer, health, fitness, and nutrition coach—and the founder of Abby Christine Coaching. I specialize in helping busy professionals and parents create sustainable lifestyle changes through my signature F.I.T. Method, which combines focused nutrition, intentional movement, and mindset transformation. My coaching is built on the belief that health should feel balanced, approachable, and realistic—no more fad diets or quick fixes.
My passion for health started early. I grew up playing sports and went on to compete as a collegiate volleyball player, where I learned both the value of discipline and the challenges of balance. Along the way, I’ve tried nearly every “plan” out there—Paleo, Zone, intermittent fasting, strict tracking—before finally realizing that true wellness comes from sustainability, not extremes. That personal journey now fuels the empathy and encouragement I bring to my clients every day.
Outside of coaching, I’m also a school administrator, where I get to inspire, support, and lead students and staff—helping them discover their strengths and reach their potential. And when the workday is done, you’ll usually find me outdoors walking my dogs, biking, strength training, or exploring the world. I love planning adventures, traveling, and spending time with family and friends!
At the heart of everything I do is a simple mission: to help people see their worth, build confidence, and become the strongest, healthiest version of themselves—inside and out!
• Nutritionist
• University of Northern Iowa- M.A.E., A.S.C., B.A.
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to perseverance, empathy, and a deep sense of purpose knowing my "why!" My own journey—competing as a collegiate athlete, navigating the ups and downs of dieting and fitness, and working as a school administrator—taught me resilience and the value of meeting people where they are. Those experiences shaped my coaching philosophy and my leadership style: I know what it feels like to struggle, so I lead with understanding and compassion. I’ve also learned that consistency and a willingness to grow are more powerful than perfection. Whether in education or coaching, my success comes from a genuine passion for helping others recognize their worth, achieve their goals, and believe in their potential!
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to always "do the right thing" while leading with empathy and understanding. Taking the time to truly listen and consider others’ perspectives, while staying true to your values, builds trust, respect, and meaningful relationships. This advice has guided me as a school administrator and as a health and wellness coach, reminding me that success isn’t just about results—it’s about making decisions that empower others, honor your integrity, and help people believe in themselves!
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
If I could give advice to women entering this industry, I’d tell them to trust themselves and stay true to their values. Early in my career, I sometimes worried too much about what others thought or took criticism personally—but I learned that success comes from focusing on your purpose and leading with integrity. Always do the right thing, even when it’s hard, and don’t be afraid to say “no” when something doesn’t align with your values or goals. Lead with empathy, and remember the advice my grandpa always shared: “Out of something negative, say something positive.” When you approach your work with authenticity, compassion, and a positive mindset, you’ll not only make a meaningful impact on others but also build a career and life that you can be proud of!!
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my career right now is helping people break free from quick-fix mentalities and unsustainable approaches to health and fitness. Many clients come in feeling frustrated by past failures or overwhelmed by conflicting advice, and guiding them toward lasting, meaningful change takes creativity, patience, and individualized strategies. At the same time, this challenge is also an incredible opportunity: to make a real, lasting impact on people’s lives by teaching them sustainable habits, helping them build confidence, and showing them their true potential. It’s rewarding to watch clients transform not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my career and personal life are integrity, empathy, and authenticity. I strive to always do the right thing, even when it’s difficult, and to lead with compassion and understanding for the people I serve—whether students, staff, or coaching clients. I value continuous growth, both personally and professionally, and prioritize building meaningful relationships rooted in trust and respect. Ultimately, I am driven by a commitment to helping others recognize their worth, achieve their goals, and live with confidence and purpose.