Should I Exercise While Taking Semaglutide?
If you’ve recently started semaglutide (Wegovy®, Zepbound®, or a compounded semaglutide prescription, you’re already taking a powerful step toward healthier weight management. But there’s one question many people ask: “Do I still need to work out?”
The short answer is yes! exercise can help you get better, longer-lasting results from semaglutide and help you offset some common negative side effects (like muscle loss). Here’s why movement matters on your GLP-1 journey and how to do it safely and effectively.
Why Exercise Still Matters on Semaglutide
GLP-1 medications like semaglutide work by reducing appetite, slowing digestion, and helping your body use insulin more efficiently. That combination makes it easier to eat less and lose weight but it can also reduce how much protein and calories you’re consuming overall.
Without exercise, you may lose muscle along with fat, which can slow your metabolism and make it harder to maintain your results. Exercise, especially strength training, helps protect your lean muscle while you lose weight.
Key Benefits of Exercising While Taking Semaglutide
- Preserve Muscle Mass: Strength training helps keep your metabolism strong.
- Support Fat Loss: Exercise helps your body burn stored fat more efficiently.
- Boost Energy: GLP-1 medications can cause fatigue; movement can help you feel more alert and energized.
- Ease Digestion: Walking after meals can relieve common side effects like bloating and sluggish digestion.
Not Sure Where to Start? Here’s a Safe Plan
If you’re new to working out, talk to your primary care physician first. They can help you decide what’s safe based on your medical history. From there:
- Start with low-impact movement: Walking, swimming, yoga, or biking are great for beginners.
- Add strength training 2–3 times per week: Bodyweight exercises, resistance bands, or light weights are all great places to start.
- Stay hydrated: Semaglutide can cause slower digestion, so sip water regularly and avoid intense workouts right after eating.
- Work with a trainer: A certified local trainer can teach you the basics of strength training - helping you maximize results, minimize the risk of injury, and gain confidence in strength training if this is new to you.
What the Science Says
According to the STEP 1 trial, which led to semaglutide's FDA approval for weight loss, participants who combined medication with increased physical activity lost significantly more weight.
Another Lancet review confirmed that GLP-1 medications like semaglutide work best when combined with lifestyle change, including consistent movement.
Final Thoughts from GobyMeds
Semaglutide is a powerful tool but it’s just one part of your weight loss story. Whether you’re walking around the block or lifting light weights at the gym, movement helps protect your health, your results, and your momentum.
At GobyMeds, we offer personalized GLP-1 plans shipped directly to your door with licensed providers guiding your journey. If you’re wondering where to find semaglutide, or how to make the most of it, our team is here to help.
👉 Ready to get started? Explore your options today
Disclaimer: Compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved and has not been reviewed for safety, efficacy, or manufacturing quality by the FDA. It is prescribed by licensed healthcare providers only when commercially available alternatives are not suitable. Patients should consult their provider to determine if compounded semaglutide is appropriate for their needs.
