The landscape of physical activity is undergoing a subtle but significant shift, driven by the increasing apply of medications like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Mounjaro. For many, these drugs – belonging to the GLP-1 class – are not just aiding weight loss, but are fundamentally altering the psychological and physical relationship with exercise, moving it away from a punitive measure and towards a source of enjoyment and well-being. This change is prompting a re-evaluation of the role of movement in overall health, and how fitness professionals can best support individuals on this evolving journey.
Jamie Selzler, 47, of Fargo, North Dakota, experienced this firsthand. After struggling with weight-related mobility issues, Selzler began using Wegovy in 2023. He found that as he lost weight, physical activity became more attainable and, surprisingly, more appealing. He now walks or hikes over 6.8 miles (11 kilometers) daily, strength trains four times a week, and recently became a certified personal trainer. Selzler’s story is emblematic of a broader trend: individuals discovering a newfound connection to physical activity, freed from the pressure of exercise as solely a means to burn calories.
Redefining Exercise: From Punishment to Pleasure
Interviews with over a dozen individuals taking GLP-1 medications for obesity or diabetes, conducted by The New York Times, revealed a common theme: a liberation from the perceived obligation to exercise for weight loss. Instead, participants described experiencing exercise as a pathway to feeling excellent, a shift in mindset that many hadn’t previously considered. This is particularly impactful for those who have historically struggled with negative associations with physical activity.
Summer Kessel, a nutritionist specializing in obesity treatment who also takes Zepbound, explains that when individuals are solely focused on dieting and calorie counting, there’s often little mental space to explore their relationship with exercise. “Most people don’t have the mental space while dieting to ask, ‘Why do I hate exercise?’” she said. “The medications can free people to make different decisions about exercise.”
The Evolving Role of the Fitness Industry
For decades, the fitness industry has been closely intertwined with weight loss, despite the fact that exercise alone is often not an effective strategy for achieving sustainable weight management. Renee Rogers, a physiologist and obesity researcher at the University of Kansas Medical Center, notes this historical connection. However, with the rise of GLP-1 medications, Rogers believes fitness professionals have an opportunity to aid people redefine the role of movement in their lives. This involves shifting the focus from weight loss to the intrinsic benefits of physical activity – improved mood, increased energy levels, and enhanced overall well-being.
This shift is already manifesting in individual experiences. Dana Greene, 59, previously viewed working out as a chore, but found herself unexpectedly enthusiastic about strength training after starting Mounjaro. Two years into her medication journey, she single-handedly felled and removed a tree that fell on her property, a feat she attributes to her increased strength and energy. Similarly, Lee Anglea, 57, experienced a significant reduction in chronic pain after starting Mounjaro, allowing her to increase her daily steps and incorporate resistance training and yoga into her routine. “I really thought people who said ‘exercise can make you happier, exercise is fun’ weren’t telling the truth,” Anglea said. “I just couldn’t understand how that could be possible.” She completed her first 5k race last year, an accomplishment that brought her to tears.
Food as Fuel, Not Reward
The impact of these medications extends beyond simply making exercise more physically accessible. Many individuals report a change in their relationship with food, viewing it as fuel for activity rather than a reward to be earned through exercise. Jamie Selzler encapsulates this shift, stating, “For many years before GLP-1, I saw food as the reward for movement. Now I see food as fuel for my movement.” This reframing can contribute to a more sustainable and positive approach to both diet and exercise.
However, the experience isn’t universally positive. Some individuals report experiencing fatigue or side effects from the medications that make movement more challenging. Online forums reveal discussions about the importance of adequate hydration and nutrition, as these medications can suppress appetite and thirst. Experts also caution against prioritizing protein intake at the expense of a balanced diet, which is crucial for maintaining energy levels and strength.
Becky Hinman, 38, a recreational tennis player, found Zepbound to be a “double-edged sword.” While weight loss alleviated knee pain and improved her speed on the court, she initially experienced increased fatigue. Adjusting her dosage and improving her nutrition and hydration ultimately helped mitigate these side effects.
Looking Ahead: A New Era of Movement
The fitness industry is adapting to this changing landscape, with some professionals viewing weight-loss medications as a threat and others developing specialized programs for individuals taking them. Rogers, who is working with the American Council on Exercise to educate fitness professionals about these medications, urges caution regarding programs lacking a strong evidence base. The focus, she believes, should be on helping individuals find joy and meaning in movement, and discovering what works best for their individual needs. The future of fitness may lie in embracing a more holistic approach, one that prioritizes well-being over weight loss and empowers individuals to move in ways that feel good.
As Selzler reflects, “I can’t imagine a life without long walks in the parks of North Dakota, or seeing my bench press improve at the gym. It’s like I’ve gotten out of prison, and I’m not going back.”
Disclaimer: This article provides informational content about health and medical topics and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
What are your thoughts on the changing relationship between medication and exercise? Share your experiences and perspectives in the comments below!
