GLP-1 medications are extremely popular at the moment, and it appears they are destined to gain even more traction in the near future. In fact, 15 percent of adults in the United States are now using or have tried these weight loss medications. In 2022, nearly 40 percent of all adults in America were in the obese category. Not just a few pounds overweight, but clinically obese. Fast forward to 2026, and the number has dropped to about 36 percent. 

Of course, there is a good reason for so many people jumping aboard the GLP-1 train. The drugs work. There are people losing weight without even having to diet or work out. But there are concerns about these medications, and as a gym owner, presenting these issues to your members who are taking them should be something to consider. (However, keep in mind that direct medical questions from members should be referred to the doctors who are prescribing them.)

What to Expect From the GLP-1s

Whether the GLP-1 medications are semaglutide or tirzepatide, the people who are taking them are experiencing rapid weight loss and a reduced appetite. Both great things to experience if the person is drastically overweight. 

On the flip side, people taking GLP-1s are also noticing lower energy levels and losing muscle mass. In fact, research shows that 25 to 40 percent of all weight loss during GLP-1 therapy may come from lean mass. This can be a problem since retaining muscle while losing fat should be the main goal in becoming healthier. After all, muscle will burn away calories even while a person is resting. The bottom line is that better results will be achieved if muscle mass is retained or even increased. Plus, the person will experience a much higher quality of life.

Helping Members Get the Most Benefits From GLP-1s

As stated previously, there will be muscle loss while taking GLP-1 medications if this problem is not addressed. As fitness enthusiasts know, the way to maintain or increase muscle is twofold. 

• Resistance training a few times a week
• Increasing protein intake

Gyms must prioritize strength training as it will help their members retain strength, improve overall body composition, and better support long-term weight management. 

In addition, emphasizing a high-protein diet with the members will keep the muscle on much better and avoid the starvation look that many actresses in Hollywood are currently facing. A diet consisting of lean meats, eggs, dairy, and protein shakes could do wonders.

Business Opportunities for Gym Owners

The main thing is to create a culture where your members are okay with disclosing they are on a GLP-1 medication. Many people taking them are doing so behind closed doors. Perhaps they feel people will judge them for trying to lose weight with a medication, or maybe they are disappointed with themselves for not being able to manage their weight on their own. Whatever the case, the gym should always be a judgment-free zone. 

As a gym owner, there are ways to increase revenue by focusing on the GLP-1 crowd through workshops or special guests. 

• Bring in a dietitian who is familiar with these medications and discuss the best diet to achieve the members’ goals. 
• A GLP-1 Support workshop that meets once a week can help members find others who are experiencing what they are currently experiencing. 
• Host a monthly Question and Answer session for those training while on weight loss medications. 
• Develop a referral relationship with medical professionals who are prescribing GLP-1s to their patients. Doctors and nurse practitioners should feel much better putting their patients in the hands of a person who is qualified to educate on fitness issues. 
• Seek out GLP-1 success stories to share with members. Being known as the gym that can encourage weight loss while keeping muscle mass will have people signing up for memberships.

Final Thoughts to Consider

Without having a medical degree, it is important for the gym staff to stay in their lane. Always emphasize to members to bring their medical questions to the right healthcare provider. The gym’s role is to provide general fitness advice and lifestyle support. 

GLP-1s are not a passing trend. They are here to stay. It’s a brand new world for how to approach weight management, and if done correctly, fitness facilities will only improve their business. If members notice their gym is supporting them through their health journey, they will refer others.

Gym Insight

Gym Insight’s customer service is second to none. If you are on the fence and would like to brainstorm how Gym Insight can take your gym to the next level and make things easier on yourself, just reach out.

We work with gyms of all sizes. Plus, we will never take percentages or include hidden fees. We offer per-month pricing plans that won’t increase over time. Gym Insight wants you to succeed. And if you already have gym software in place that you are not quite happy with, we can transfer the data over and you can start fresh with us.

Phone: 1-855-FOR-GYMS
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