Exercise on GLP-1s: Building a Sustainable Routine

Medication + exercise = better results. Here’s how to approach fitness on GLP-1s.

Why Exercise Matters

GLP-1 medications help with:

  • Appetite reduction
  • Blood sugar control

Exercise adds:

  • Muscle preservation
  • Metabolic health
  • Mental health benefits
  • Better body composition

Starting Out

If You’re New to Exercise

  • Start small (10-15 minutes)
  • Walking is perfect
  • Consistency beats intensity
  • Listen to your body

If You Were Active Before

  • You may need to adjust
  • Less fuel = potentially less energy
  • Focus on maintaining
  • Reassess as weight changes

Protein is Critical

To preserve muscle while losing weight:

  • Aim for 0.7-1g protein per pound goal weight
  • Prioritize protein at every meal
  • Consider protein supplements
  • Don’t skip meals before workouts

Types of Exercise

Resistance Training

  • Crucial for muscle maintenance
  • 2-3 times per week minimum
  • Full body or split routine
  • Progress gradually

Cardio

  • Supports heart health
  • Aids caloric deficit
  • 150 minutes/week moderate
  • Include variety

Flexibility/Recovery

  • Don’t neglect stretching
  • Rest days matter
  • Sleep is critical
  • Manage stress

Common Challenges

Low Energy

  • May need to time workouts differently
  • Ensure adequate nutrition
  • Consider timing with medication
  • This often improves over time

Nausea During Exercise

  • Don’t work out immediately after eating
  • Stay hydrated
  • Lower intensity if needed
  • Cool environment helps

Reduced Performance

  • Normal during active weight loss
  • Strength may decrease initially
  • Focus on maintenance
  • It stabilizes

Working Out While Eating Less

Key principles:

  • Don’t exercise fasted intensely
  • Have protein before/after
  • Stay well hydrated
  • Adjust expectations

What’s your routine? Share below!


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good breakdown. wish more people understood this…

im kinda new to this… is that how it works?

wish i knew this sooner tbh