Optimizing Weight Loss: Exercise and Activity Tips for Those on Weight Loss Medications

Embarking on a weight loss journey often involves a combination of healthy eating, lifestyle modifications, and sometimes, the use of weight loss medications. While these medications can provide a valuable boost in managing appetite, pairing it with appropriate nutrition, mental health supports and physical activity is necessary for optimal, long term results. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore exercise and activity tips tailored to individuals utilizing weight loss medications, ensuring a synergistic approach to reaching weight loss goals effectively and safely.

Understanding Weight Loss Medications

Weight loss medications are prescribed by healthcare professionals to assist individuals in losing weight when lifestyle changes alone haven’t yielded desired results. These medications can work by suppressing appetite, blocking fat absorption, or increasing metabolism [1].

It’s essential to understand that weight loss medications are most effective when incorporated into a holistic weight loss plan that includes a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Odds are good that patients won’t be on these medications for the rest of their life – which means building and practising the health habits needed to maintain weight once you’ve reached your health goals is necessary. The appetite management that comes with these medications will be gone when you’ve weaned off of them, thus the importance in understanding how to move your body to improve fitness.

Benefits of Combining Exercise with Weight Loss Medications

1) Enhanced Weight Loss: Exercise, in combination with weight loss medications, can significantly amplify weight loss results [2]. Physical activity increases the number of calories burned, facilitating a calorie deficit, which is fundamental for weight loss.

2) Preservation of Lean Muscle Mass: Regular exercise during a weight loss journey helps in preserving lean muscle mass [3]. Weight loss medications might cause loss of muscle along with fat, but exercising can mitigate this effect.

3) Improved Metabolic Rate: Engaging in physical activities can boost metabolism, aiding in weight loss. Weight loss medications can further enhance this effect, resulting in a more efficient calorie-burning process [4].

4) Enhanced Overall Health: Regular exercise offers a myriad of health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, reduced risk of chronic diseases, and enhanced mental well-being [5]. Combining exercise with weight loss medications contributes to an overall healthier lifestyle.

Tailored Exercise Tips for Individuals on Weight Loss Medications

1) Consult with a Healthcare Professional: Before starting any exercise routine, consult your healthcare provider, especially if you’re using weight loss medications. They can provide guidance on suitable exercises, considering your health condition and the specific medication you are taking. Have you booked time to chat with the Registered Kinesiologist team yet?

2) Begin Gradually: Start with low-impact exercises if you are new to regular physical activity or have been sedentary for a while. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts as your fitness level improves.

3) Incorporate Aerobic Exercises: Aerobic exercises are excellent for weight loss and overall fitness. Activities like brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or dancing can be enjoyable ways to burn calories and complement the effects of weight loss medications [6]. Check out our article on non-exercise activities you can do!

4) Integrate Strength Training: Strength training exercises, involving weights or resistance bands, help in building muscle mass and boosting metabolism. Aim for at least two strength training sessions per week, targeting major muscle groups.

5) Embrace High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): HIIT is a time-efficient workout strategy that alternates between intense bursts of activity and periods of lower-intensity exercises or rest. HIIT can maximise calorie burn, making it an effective addition to your fitness routine [7].

6) Stay Consistent: Consistency is key to seeing results. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week, in addition to strength training [8].

7) Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body feels during and after exercise. If you experience pain, discomfort, or unusual symptoms, stop and consult a healthcare professional.

8) Stay Hydrated and Well-Nourished: Proper hydration and a well-balanced diet are essential for supporting your workouts and optimising the effects of weight loss medications [9].

9) Monitor Progress: Keep track of your exercise routine and weight loss progress. This can be motivating and provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of your approach.

Conclusion

Exercise is a vital component of any successful weight loss journey, especially for individuals utilising weight loss medications. By integrating exercise into your routine, you enhance the effectiveness of these medications, ensuring a healthier and sustainable approach to weight loss. Remember, consult with your healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your exercise routine or medication plan, and prioritise consistency and a balanced approach to achieve your weight loss goals.

Ready to start your weight loss journey?