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Weight Loss Drugs Curb Exercise Habits
16 Jun
Summary
- GLP-1 drug users significantly reduced daily steps and exercise.
- Men and those with joint pain saw the largest declines in activity.
- Exercise is crucial to preserve muscle mass lost with these drugs.
New research indicates that people taking weight-loss medications, such as Ozempic and Zepbound, are exercising less. Data from over 750 individuals wearing Fitbit trackers showed a significant decrease in daily steps and moderate-to-vigorous exercise minutes after starting GLP-1 drugs. On average, daily steps dropped from 5,047 to 4,487, and exercise minutes decreased from 28 to 22 per day.
The study, presented at the Endocrine Society's annual meeting on June 13, 2026, highlighted that men and individuals experiencing joint or muscle pain showed the most substantial reductions in activity. Men took nearly 1,000 fewer steps daily, while those with pain reduced their steps by over 600. Researchers emphasized that this trend is problematic because GLP-1 medications also cause a loss of lean muscle mass. They stressed that exercise is not optional but vital for users to maintain strength and overall health, advocating for interventions that promote physical activity alongside medication.
