New research indicates adults taking GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy are significantly reducing their physical activity levels. The study, presented at the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting in Chicago, analyzed fitness tracker data from 753 participants. Results show average daily steps dropped from 5,047 to 4,487 after initiating treatment. Moderate-to-vigorous activity also declined from 28 to 22 minutes per day.
Lead researcher Sajana Maharjan warns that GLP-1 drugs reduce both fat and lean muscle mass. Without targeted exercise interventions, patients risk long-term health complications. Contrary to popular assumption, weight loss alone did not correlate with increased mobility or motivation. Men and individuals with joint pain experienced the steepest declines in activity.
Specialists note that calorie deficits can lower metabolic rates as the body conserves energy. Medication side effects such as nausea and fatigue may further suppress the desire to move. Dr. Peter Balazs emphasizes that resistance training is not optional for this demographic. Maintaining muscle mass is critical for metabolic health and preventing injury during rapid weight loss.
However, some clinicians dispute these findings based on real-world outcomes. Dr. Amanda Kahn argues that comprehensive medical oversight transforms patient behavior. She suggests that when providers monitor protein intake and body composition, patients often become more active. In her view, excessive fatigue or muscle loss signals inadequate clinical management rather than an inherent flaw in the medication itself.