Strength training is especially important when taking a GLP-1 medication like Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro because these drugs often cause rapid weight loss, and without resistance exercise, a significant portion of that weight can come from muscle, not just fat.

1. Preserve Muscle Mass: GLP-1 medications reduce appetite and calorie intake. When calories drop quickly, the body may break down muscle for energy. Strength training signals the body to maintain and build muscle, helping ensure more of the weight lost is fat rather than lean tissue.
2. Protects Metabolism: Muscle is metabolically active tissue. Losing muscle lowers your resting metabolic rate, which can make long-term weight maintenance harder. Strength training helps keep metabolism higher during weight loss.
3. Improves Body Composition: People on GLP-1s can lose a lot of scale weight but still end up “skinny-fat” (lower weight but higher body fat percentage). Resistance training shifts the result toward fat loss with muscle retention, improving how the body looks and functions.
4. Maintains Strength & Function: Muscle loss can lead to fatigue, weakness, and reduced physical function. Training preserves mobility, balance, and everyday strength, which becomes increasingly important with age.
5. Supports Blood Sugar Control: Strength training increases insulin sensitivity and helps muscles store glucose more effectively, complementing how GLP-1 medications regulate blood sugar.

GLP-1 drugs help you eat less, but strength training tells your body what weight to lose (fat instead of muscle)

For more information on Strength Training while taking a GLP-1 medication or to schedule a personal training appointment with Nancy Steen, please email nsteen@sipoa.org.