Don’t skip this: Why strength training is essential on weight-loss drugs

Weight‑loss drugs can be incredibly effective, but they do not protect muscle, and muscle is one of the most important predictors of healthy aging.

Up to 40% of the weight lost can be lean mass, including muscle. This is much higher than the typical age‑related decline, which is about 8% per decade.

Muscle loss is especially concerning for mature women because they are already at higher risk for:

• Age‑related muscle loss

• Osteoporosis

• Frailty and falls

• Slower metabolism.

  
  

Why women on weight loss drugs need resistance exercises

Mature women taking weight‑loss drugs need resistance training. Muscle is essential for strength, metabolism, mobility, and long‑term health.

For women, resistance training is not optional; it is the key to:

• staying strong

• maintaining metabolism

• protecting bones

• supporting brain health

• preserving independence.

Resistance training protects muscle during weight loss

Doctors specifically recommend strength training as a core part of weight-loss treatment because it helps preserve muscle while fat is lost.

For older adults, resistance training has proven benefits:

• Builds and maintains muscle mass.

• Improves strength and mobility.

• Reduces risk of falls and fractures.

  Supports blood sugar regulation.

• Helps maintain independence.

Even people who start resistance training after age 70 can build muscle and reverse age‑related decline.

Muscle acts as a “glucose sink,” helping regulate blood sugar and reduce the risk of insulin resistance.

Losing muscle can:

• slow metabolism

• make weight regain more likely

• reduce energy levels

• increase risk of type 2 diabetes.

For women on weight‑loss medications, experts suggest strength training:

• 2–3 sessions per week

• Focus on major muscle groups.

• Use weights, resistance bands, or body weight.

• Aim for 2–3 sets of 8–12 repetitions.

Contact me to find out how I can help you improve and maintain muscle mass.