By: Christle Guevarra, DO, MS, CAQSM
The rise of GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide (commonly marketed as Ozempic or Wegovy) and tirzepatide (marketed as Mounjaro), has brought a powerful new tool to the forefront of weight management strategies. These medications, originally developed in the late 1900s to treat type 2 diabetes, are now increasingly prescribed for their impressive efficacy in promoting significant weight loss. As their prevalence grows, their impact on coaching in the health and fitness industry cannot be overlooked.
These are some of the most popular GLP-1 medications currently used for weight loss.
What Are GLP-1 Receptor Agonists?
GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels and appetite. By slowing gastric emptying, increasing feelings of fullness, and reducing appetite, these medications create an environment conducive to significant weight loss, particularly when paired with lifestyle modifications such as improved nutrition and regular exercise. For individuals struggling with obesity or other weight-related conditions, these medications can represent a turning point in their journey toward better health.
Implications for Coaching
The emergence of GLP-1 medications presents both opportunities and challenges for fitness and nutrition coaches. To remain effective and relevant, coaches must adapt to this changing landscape by understanding these medications and incorporating them into their coaching practices thoughtfully. Below are some key areas of consideration:
Shift in Client Goals
Clients using GLP-1 receptor agonists may experience rapid changes in their weight, which can shift their goals and priorities. Coaches must adapt to these shifts by emphasizing outcomes beyond weight loss:
- Focus on Fitness and Strength: With weight loss being more achievable through medication, coaches can guide clients to prioritize other aspects of health, such as building strength, improving cardiovascular fitness, and increasing flexibility.
- Body Composition Over Scale Weight: Highlight the importance of preserving or increasing lean muscle mass while reducing fat. This not only improves physical appearance but also supports metabolic health, especially as rapid weight loss can sometimes result in muscle loss.
- Performance Goals: Encourage clients to set goals around performance—such as completing a race, mastering a new skill, or hitting a personal best in the gym—to create a more balanced approach to fitness.
Education and Understanding
To coach clients effectively, it is essential to understand the mechanisms of GLP-1 medications and their potential side effects. These include nausea, fatigue, and, in some cases, gastrointestinal discomfort. Coaches should:
- Familiarize themselves with how these medications work and their role in weight management.
- Monitor clients’ rate of weight loss to ensure it is safe and sustainable.
- Advocate for planned maintenance phases during a weight loss journey. Maintenance phases allow the metabolism to stabilize, provide psychological recovery from dieting, and reduce the risk of weight regain. Ideally, these phases should last at least half the duration of the prior dieting phase, with longer maintenance periods often yielding better results.
Coaches must also stay vigilant for any signs of rapid or excessive weight loss, which could lead to negative health outcomes, such as nutrient deficiencies or muscle loss.
Supporting Long-Term Success
GLP-1 agonists, while effective, are not a standalone solution. Sustainable health and weight management require a comprehensive approach that includes habit-building around nutrition, exercise, and stress management. Coaches play a pivotal role in this process by:
- Helping clients develop a consistent exercise routine that aligns with their current energy levels and fitness goals.
- Encouraging the adoption of dietary habits that prioritize nutrient-dense, whole foods.
- Providing strategies for managing stress and improving sleep, both of which are critical for overall health and weight maintenance.
Collaborating on Dose Adjustments
A significant gap often exists between nutrition coaches and physicians regarding GLP-1 medication dosing. Coaches can provide valuable insights by:
- Observing how clients respond to different doses during various phases of their weight loss journey.
- Supporting clients in discussing dose adjustments with their healthcare providers, ensuring the medication aligns with their diet and exercise goals. For instance, higher doses may be helpful during aggressive fat-loss phases to enhance appetite suppression, while lower doses during maintenance phases may help stabilize energy levels and appetite.
Navigating Ethical Considerations
Coaches must approach the topic of GLP-1 medications with sensitivity and professionalism. This includes:
- Respecting clients’ choices to use or not use these medications without judgment or bias.
- Remaining within their scope of practice by avoiding direct recommendations about medication use and instead encouraging clients to consult their healthcare providers for guidance.
- Being mindful of potential medication side effects and helping clients navigate nutrition-related challenges, such as reduced appetite or energy levels. Coaches are often in a unique position to notice issues early due to their frequent interactions with clients.
Open communication between clients and their physicians should be encouraged to address concerns proactively and optimize outcomes.
Practical Strategies for Coaches
Here are some actionable strategies for integrating GLP-1 considerations into your coaching practice:
- Integrate Strength Training: Rapid weight loss can sometimes lead to muscle loss. Emphasize strength training to help clients preserve lean muscle mass and maintain metabolic health.
- Emphasize Nutrition Quality: Encourage clients to focus on nutrient-dense foods, such as vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats, to support overall health and energy levels.
- Shift Focus to Body Composition: Educate clients on the value of tracking changes in fat and muscle mass rather than just scale weight. Tools like body composition scans or tape measurements can provide more meaningful insights into progress.
- Monitor Energy Levels: Clients on GLP-1 medications may experience reduced energy. Tailor workouts to match their current capacity, and adjust plans as needed. For additional insights on managing fatigue, consider watching Dr. Mike’s video on the topic here.
- Create a Collaborative Approach: Work closely with clients’ healthcare providers to ensure a cohesive strategy that supports both medication use and lifestyle changes. Collaboration fosters trust and improves client outcomes.
Addressing Common Concerns
Some clients may express concerns about using GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as fears of dependency or side effects. Coaches can help by:
The Future of Coaching
As the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists grows, the health and fitness industry will undoubtedly continue to evolve. Coaches who embrace this shift with a client-centered, science-based approach will be well-positioned to make a meaningful impact. By prioritizing education, collaboration, and individualized strategies, coaches can help clients achieve their goals while maintaining long-term health and wellness.
GLP-1 medications represent an exciting advancement in the field of weight management, but their true potential lies in their integration with sustainable habits and supportive coaching. By staying informed and adaptable, coaches can continue to lead their clients toward healthier, more fulfilling lives.
References
- RP Strength. (n.d.). The importance of maintenance. Retrieved from https://rpstrength.com/blogs/articles/the-importance-of-maintenance
Find Dr. Guevarra on...
IG: @Dr.Christle