A Trainer’s Role in the Age of GLP-1 Medications
Latest research shows GLP-1 medications can lead to up to 20% weight loss, making them increasingly prevalent in weight management. With over 12 different GLP-1/GIP medications now available, trainers are likely to encounter more clients using these prescriptions.
As someone who often works with clients diagnosed with chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes or struggling to lose weight, you will likely encounter clients (if you haven’t already) who are either taking one of these drugs or curious about the efficacy and may ask for your opinion. Here’s what personal trainers should know about Ozempic and Wegovy.
What is Semaglitude?
Semaglutide, sold under the brand names Ozempic, Wegovy, and others, is an antidiabetic medication used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and as an anti-obesity medication for long-term weight management. emaglutide injection is in a class of medications called incretin mimetics. It works by helping the pancreas to release the right amount of insulin when blood sugar levels are high. Insulin helps move sugar from the blood into other body tissues where it is used for energy.
What is the difference between Ozpic and Wegovy?
The intended patient population for Wegovy is people with chronic obesity, and Ozempic is for those with type 2 diabetes. As many as 80% to 90% of individuals with type 2 diabetes struggle with obesity as well.
Ozempic is a once-weekly prescription medicine used along with diet and exercise to lower blood sugar (glucose) in adults with type 2 diabetes. It works by helping to reduce the amount of glucose absorbed by the body and by increasing the amount of energy used by the body’s cells. Ozempic is also used to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke, and death) in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease.
Wegovy is one of six medications currently approved by the FDA for the long-term treatment of obesity. Wegovy works by acting like the GLP-1 hormone. This hormone works in your brain to regulate your appetite. By mimicking the activity of GLP-1, Wegovy can help reduce your appetite and lower the number of calories you consume. This can lead to weight loss and help with weight management over time. It can be used for as long as it remains beneficial for weight loss and/or weight maintenance and is not causing intolerable side effects.
Some people taking semaglutide may notice less fullness in their faces. In fact, this phenomenon has been referred to as “Ozempic face.” While Ozempic isn’t approved for weight loss, of those who are prescribed the medication for diabetes, many do lose weight and facial fat loss is one potential effect of fast and significant weight loss.
Working with Clients Who Are Prescribed Ozempic or Wegovy
While these medications show promise, recent research reveals that up to 40% of weight loss can come from lean tissue without proper exercise intervention. Regular body composition assessment helps trainers optimize exercise programming and ensure healthy weight loss.
Hydration monitoring is particularly crucial, as GLP-1 medications can significantly impact fluid balance. Trainers should implement strategic fluid intake protocols during exercise sessions and monitor hydration status carefully.
Like with any clients who are prescribed medications for specific chronic diseases, you should be aware of any considerations for your programming. Programs should be well-rounded and include components of endurance training, resistance training, flexibility, and balance, as well as other safe and healthy weight management strategies.
With GLP-1 prescriptions rising dramatically, fitness professionals who understand these medications can create valuable partnerships with healthcare providers. This represents a significant opportunity to expand your business while providing essential exercise support services.
REMEMBER: At NO point is it appropriate to stop any of your client’s medicines. All you can do is refer back to the physician and ask if it is truly needed or if an alternative is possible.
