Caitlin Holmes, MS, CNS
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Caitlin Holmes | The Dirtbag Nutritionist
I am a Board Certified Nutrition Specialist® (CNS®) who works primarily with climbers and outdoor athletes. My mission is to help athletes optimize their nutrition for health & performance, build a positive body image, and foster self-confidence.
I received my MS in Human Nutrition & Functional Medicine from the University of Western States in 2020. To further my expertise in the field of nutrition, I completed 1,000 supervised clinical hours and a rigorous certification exam required to obtain my CNS® credential.
Nutrition has been an integral part of my life from an early age. As an ex-ballerina who struggled with body image issues, numerous digestive problems, eczema, and malnutrition for most of my teen years, I found solace in nutritional healing. For me, nutrition gave me a reason to thrive, not just survive. Learning how important proper nutrition is for mental health, athletic performance, and long-term healthy living provided me with an opportunity to heal and discover what feeling “healthy” truly means for me. Now, my goal is to share the power of nutrition with others.
I’m dedicated to providing holistic nutrition coaching with a focus on comprehensive wellness and long-term well-being. Whether you want more energy, have a specific health concern, are recovering from REDS, or simply want to prioritize your health, I’m here to empower you to feel stronger, train smarter, and achieve your peak performance while also improving your resiliency for long-term health.
Work with Caitlin
Caitlin is a Board Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) specializing in providing holistic nutrition support for climbers and outdoor athletes. My expertise extends to everyday nutrition and performance nutrition, ensuring climbers receive personalized and impactful guidance.
Fees:
I am currently cash pay, but I can provide superbills that clients submit to their insurance for possible reimbursement. I also offer payment plans.
Locations:
New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona, California, New Hampshire, New York, Massachusetts, North Carolina (more upon request).
As a climber myself, I understand the climber's experience in training, living a busy life, and aiming to perform their best on the rock. I recognize the importance of addressing the whole person, considering not only physical but also mental and emotional well-being. I strive to cultivate positive body image and bolster self-confidence in my clients, aiming to empower them in all aspects of their lives. I provide them with the tools, knowledge, and support from a place of non-judgmental understanding.
“I’ve learned that I need to meet myself where I am every day.”
What sparked your love for adventure?
My dad! I grew up camping, goldpanning, mountain biking, hiking, and exploring with him from an early age. I'm grateful he wanted to instill in me an adventurous spirit and a similar appreciation for nature. I grew up thinking it was common for fathers to bring their daughters out with them on adventures! Will never take that for granted.
How do you prepare mentally and physically for your adventures?
Every adventure presents different challenges! But usually, I try to go into every adventure with as few expectations as possible. This is because I've learned that I need to meet myself where I am every day. Some days I'll have the mental fortitude and physical strength to really push myself. Other days, I know that I need to take it easy. What helps me most in my life and sports is just preparing and having a plan. For example, packing my bag with snacks and gear the night before ensures that I have what I need, no matter where my head is at the next day.
Do you have a bucket list of adventures? If so, what's at the top?
Fontainebleau and Magic Wood for climbing! Alaska for fly fishing!
What role does nature play in your life?
I consider nature to be one of the critical nutrients we all need (e.g., Vitamin "N")! It helps me feel grounded when I've lost my footing and reconnects me to all that is happening around me. If I'm in my own way or struggling mentally, I find myself craving nature.
How do you navigate setbacks or challenges during your adventures?
I take them as they come! Sometimes even the best plans can be forcibly altered at a moment's notice, and having the ability to think quickly on my feet is what has saved me from some unfortunate experiences (e.g., breaking my ankle and having the quick thought to take my climbing shoe off before the swelling hit). And, I stand by the practice of throwing a tiny stick if I need to let some emotions out. It's silly, but it does help!
Do you have any rituals or traditions before or after your adventures?
My husband and I talk about what we hope to learn before and then what we do learn after. We used to be really goal-driven on trips, but now we appreciate learning experiences. This ritual has helped me shift my expectations and improve my mindset when something doesn't go "right." I've come to love this ritual!
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start embracing adventure in their life?
Start, even if it feels like a smaller step than others! But don't forget to tell someone where you're going and for how long. Oh, and don't forget extra water and snacks!!!
Can you describe a particularly humbling experience you've had in nature?
I think anyone who has ever experienced food poisoning in nature can agree: it's the MOST humbling experience. Now, I take precautions to avoid that happening again. I'll forever bring quality coolers, ice packs, back up food/water, and Pepto.
“My body is capable of so much more than I ever imagined, and I know it needs consistent nourishment, rest, and support. I’m proud of how this has evolved.”
What role does community play in your adventurous pursuits?
Community is everything to me. Sharing the adventure with others is integral to my experience and how I connect to the world at large. I admire solo adventurers, but I relish an experience that is shared.
How do you handle fear or uncertainty during your adventures?
I talk about it with someone I trust! Voicing my concerns out loud gives me an opportunity to consider if my fears are rooted in truth or not.
What aspect of your adventure experience brings you the most pride?
There was a time when I hated my body and sought to harm it in order to fit into a idealized box. I think my adventures are a huge part of what has helped me turn my hatred into admiration. My body is capable of so much more than I ever imagined, and I know it needs consistent nourishment, rest, and support. I'm proud of how this has evolved.
What's the most challenging aspect of planning an adventure for you?
Figuring out a food menu that works for everyone joining!
What part of adventure is the most exciting for you, and why? (Planning stage, sitting around a campfire, the challenge, packing up, looking at pictures after, etc?)
The part where I am there, enjoying the fruits of my planning!
