Carter Collins, the owner and operator of IFTA, shares the role health clubs play in long term behavior change for those using GLP-1s
The global rise in obesity is one of the most pressing public health challenges of the 21st century. Obesity significantly increases the risk of various comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer, contributing to higher morbidity and mortality rates worldwide. Traditional weight loss strategies, particularly diet and exercise, often result in only modest, short-term weight loss, with many individuals regaining the weight they initially lose. This has led to the exploration of pharmacotherapy to augment the effectiveness of lifestyle changes. One of the most promising developments in this area is the use of low-dose glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. When combined with diet and exercise, these medications offer a novel and effective approach to achieving and sustaining long-term weight loss.
In short, GLP-1 receptor agonists work by mimicking the effects of endogenous GLP-1 enhancing insulin secretion, inhibiting glucagon release and slowing gastric emptying — promoting satiety. GLP-1 receptor agonists also target the hypothalamus, reducing hunger and promoting appetite control, thus leading to weight loss. Examples of these drugs include semaglutides— like Ozempic and Wegovy — and have been approved for the treatment of obesity. As an industry charged with wellness and fitness education for everyone, we must work with those prescribed GLP-1 agonist medications to ensure a lifestyle change that will complement medical weight loss.
While GLP-1 agonists are effective on their own, their efficacy is significantly enhanced when combined with lifestyle modifications, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise. Diet and exercise are foundational to obesity treatment because they address the root causes of weight gain, such as poor dietary habits and physical inactivity. However, maintaining these lifestyle changes can be challenging, especially over the long term, due to factors such as stress, environmental cues, and biological responses to weight loss, including increased hunger and decreased metabolic rate. Additionally, motivation decreases when results are delayed or not seen at all.
Exercise is a critical component of successful weight loss, as it increases energy expenditure, helps preserve lean muscle mass and improves cardiovascular health. When combined with GLP-1 agonists, exercise enhances the overall effectiveness of the weight loss program by addressing both the caloric intake and expenditure sides of the energy balance equation.
Furthermore, regular physical activity has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce visceral fat and lower the risk of developing obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The synergy between pharmacotherapy and lifestyle changes creates a comprehensive approach that not only promotes weight loss but also supports long-term weight maintenance and overall health.
The health and fitness industry is uniquely positioned to partner with health care providers prescribing GLP-1 agonists such as Ozempic. This “once in a generation” class of drugs has proven so effective that Ozempic has quickly become a household name. When taken at a low dosage that promotes slow weight loss, the education surrounding dietary and movement changes is key.
The industry has the tools to educate and create community, like specialized personal training or group classes for those supplementing their lifestyle pharmacologically. Obesity is a lifelong battle for many, thus education about healthy long term behavior change while on a GLP-1 drug is essential for maintaining weight loss after discontinuing the medication.
