Ozempic is an opportunity

Ozempic is an opportunity, and Crew Fitness, for one, will not shame the use of it. These drugs are not for everyone, and they do not ensure lasting weight loss… but for some, they do offer a unique window of opportunity to transform your life.

The GLP-1 Revolution: Why Weightlifting is Your Best Ally

For many people who have struggled with weight loss, using GLP-1 medications like Ozempic or Wegovy can feel like a breakthrough. These drugs, originally developed for type 2 diabetes, work by regulating appetite and blood sugar, making it easier to shed pounds. But with this exciting progress comes an important consideration: healthy weight loss isn’t just about losing fat—it’s also about preserving muscle.

Recent studies have highlighted a concern: people on these drugs are losing muscle at the same rate they're losing fat. And this presents a host of problems. This muscle loss can slow metabolism, reduce energy levels, and make it harder to sustain long-term weight loss. That’s why incorporating fitness, particularly strength work, into your routine is crucial.

In all reality: strength training needs to be PRESCRIBED ALONGSIDE the GLP-1s. It's that big of a deal. 

Why Muscle Matters

Muscle is more than just a means to look toned or lift heavy dumbbells; it’s the metabolic powerhouse for the whole body. That's right - your muscle controls your metabolism. Even at rest, muscle burns more calories than fat. More than that: muscle is the dominant factor in regulating blood sugar, which is the prime driver for both satiety (feeling full when you have eaten enough) and intense food cravings. Muscle mass also supports joint health and plays a critical role in maintaining overall functionality in life. 

In simple terms: more muscle means a faster metabolism and a more capable body. Less muscle means less energy, slower metabolism, and a less capable human. When you lose muscle, your metabolism slows down, making it harder to maintain weight loss in the long term.

Studies have shown that individuals on GLP-1 drugs who are not engaging in resistance training are at a higher risk of muscle loss. This not only diminishes the health benefits of their weight loss but makes future weight regain more likely.

The Case for Strength Training

Strength training is one of the most effective ways to preserve and even build muscle while losing weight. When combined with proper nutrition, including adequate protein intake, resistance training signals your body to retain muscle mass. Here’s why it’s especially important for those on GLP-1 medications:

  1. Preserving Lean Mass: Resistance training combats muscle loss, ensuring that the majority of the weight you lose comes from fat.

  2. Boosting Metabolism: More muscle equals a higher resting metabolic rate, which helps you burn more calories even when you’re not working out.

  3. Building Strength for Daily Life: Stronger muscles make everyday activities easier and reduce the risk of injuries.

Building a Fitness Routine

If you’re new to strength training, don’t worry—you’ve got this! Crew Fitness delivers 2 strength-focused classes each week. In our strength classes, you're still going to row and ride, but with less focus on the cardio and more focus on the strength. 

Our goals for you are to:

  • Focus on Compound Movements: Exercises like squats, deadlifts, presses, and rows target multiple muscle groups, giving you the most bang for your buck. They're written into all of our strength classes, and our expert trainers will teach you how to move properly. 

  • Aim for Consistency: Starting with 2 strength classes per week can make a significant difference. As your body acclimates to movement, you'll feel yourself hungry for more.

  • Progress Gradually: Start with lighter weights and focus on proper form. Increase the weight as you get stronger. We encourage you to start slow, take it easy in the beginning, and commit to the long haul. Fit people do fitness for LIFE, and that's our goal for you. 

An Opportunity to Transform Your Life

If you’re on a GLP-1 medication, you're in a beautiful window of opportunity: this is your chance to take control of your health and wellness journey. The team at Crew Fitness is here to help you cultivate new habits for your new life. Once you step into this world of health and wellness, you won't turn back. 

The reduced hunger these drugs provide makes it easier to focus on eating nutritious, whole foods. Pair that with strength training, quality sleep, and a commitment to self-care, and you’re setting yourself up for a lifetime of success.

Think of GLP-1 medications not as a shortcut, but as a launchpad. Use this time to build habits that will last a lifetime. Strengthen your body with every rep, nourish it with every meal, and honor it with restorative rest.

You’re stronger than you think, and you’re capable of achieving great things in fitness and in life! This is your time to shine—to build the healthiest, happiest version of yourself. And we’re here to help you every step of the way.

At Crew Fitness, we’re offering a 2-week trial membership at a super discounted rate.

Come discover how weightlifting and personalized coaching can transform your journey. Take the first step today—your future self will thank you!