GLP-1 Medications and Muscle Loss: Why Physical Therapy and Strength Training Matter
GLP-1s: A Game-Changer With a Hidden Cost
Medications like Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Mounjaro®, and Zepbound™ (all part of the GLP-1 agonist family) have revolutionized the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes. They help people lose weight quickly by regulating blood sugar and reducing appetite.
But there’s a side of GLP-1 therapy that doesn’t get talked about enough: muscle loss.
Research shows that 15–60% of the weight lost on GLP-1s may come from lean body mass—including muscle and bone. While the exact percentage varies across studies, the risk is real. And losing muscle isn’t just about aesthetics. It affects:
Metabolism → less muscle means fewer calories burned at rest.
Strength & mobility → weaker muscles make everyday tasks harder.
Bone health → lower skeletal loading can reduce bone density.
Longevity → muscle mass is directly linked to independence and quality of life.
Why Physical Therapy Is the Missing Piece
This is where physical therapy (PT) plays a crucial role. As experts in movement, we design safe, progressive programs that meet patients exactly where they are—whether they’re just starting GLP-1 therapy, adjusting to rapid weight loss, or maintaining results long-term.
Here’s how PT can help GLP-1 patients succeed:
Strength & Mobility Assessments
Baseline testing of grip strength, movement quality, and functional mobility.
Identifies areas of weakness or imbalance before injuries develop.
Progressive Resistance Training
Supervised training at least 1–2x per week.
Focused on compound lifts, gradual loading, and building tolerance.
Helps preserve lean muscle and protect joints.
Injury Prevention Strategies
Teaching proper mechanics for loading, stretching, and recovery.
Reduces the risk of tendinopathies and overuse injuries, especially in new exercisers.
Nutrition Support Collaboration
PTs often work alongside dietitians and physicians.
Patients need adequate protein intake (1.2–1.6g/kg/day) to support muscle preservation.
Building Long-Term Habits Beyond Medication
Most people won’t take GLP-1s forever. Whether due to cost, side effects, or achieving their goals, discontinuation is common. Patients who develop strength training and exercise routines along the way are far more likely to keep the weight off—and keep living actively—after stopping medication.
That’s why our approach at Spear Athletics Physical Therapy focuses on:
Sustainable, enjoyable exercise habits.
Education on how to maintain muscle and mobility.
Preparing patients not just for short-term results, but lifelong health.
Key Takeaways for GLP-1 Patients
Don’t ignore muscle loss: up to 60% of lost weight can be lean tissue.
PT + strength training = better outcomes: preserve strength, metabolism, and bone health.
Movement is medicine: physical therapy ensures GLP-1 success is not just temporary.
Ready to Protect Your Results?
If you’re on a GLP-1 or considering it, now is the time to act. Pair your medication with a customized PT-guided strength program to protect your muscle, metabolism, and long-term independence.
