{"id":632361,"date":"2025-06-10T09:30:42","date_gmt":"2025-06-10T13:30:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=632361"},"modified":"2025-10-17T11:24:02","modified_gmt":"2025-10-17T15:24:02","slug":"ozempic-and-exercise","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/ozempic-and-exercise\/","title":{"rendered":"What to know about Ozempic and exercise"},"content":{"rendered":"

When it comes to weight loss drugs, GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist) medications like <\/span>Wegovy <\/span><\/a>and <\/span>Ozempic <\/span><\/a>are all the rage\u2014and they’re highly effective. While both medications have the same active ingredient, semaglutide, they have different FDA-approved uses. Ozempic is approved to manage Type 2 diabetes. Wegovy is approved for weight loss in adults with obesity (a body mass index of 30 or greater) or overweight individuals (BMI of 27 or more) with at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, or dyslipidemia (high cholesterol).<\/span><\/p>\n

Even so, Ozempic is often prescribed off-label for weight loss. For best results, incorporating healthy lifestyle changes\u2014like a balanced diet and regular exercise routine\u2014is crucial when taking Ozempic for weight management or blood sugar control. With the right workout routine, you can improve your body composition and prevent muscle loss.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

But what types of exercise should you do on Ozempic: cardio, strength training, or a combination of the two? Keep reading to learn how to optimize your workout routine.<\/span><\/p>\n\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\tOzempic 2 mg\/3 mL (1 Pen)\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t23666 - Hampton, VA\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\"Kroger\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t$791.97\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\ti<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\tPrice with signup<\/a>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\tGet free coupon<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\"Harris\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t$791.97\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\ti<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\tPrice with signup<\/a>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\tGet free coupon<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\tSee Ozempic prices at all pharmacies<\/a>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\n

Can you work out on Ozempic?\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

Yes, you can and absolutely should work out while taking Ozempic, says <\/span>Ari Hoschander<\/span><\/a>, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon at Breast Reduction Surgeons of Long Island in New York.<\/span><\/p>\n

Exercise is critical for long-term weight management and works synergistically with an Ozempic treatment plan.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

“Exercise supports the weight loss process facilitated by Ozempic by improving cardiovascular health, building muscle mass, and boosting metabolic rate,” Dr. Horschander explains. He adds that patients who combine Ozempic with consistent exercise tend to feel more energetic and lose fat rather than muscle. Rapid weight loss without exercise can lead to muscle loss. “My breast reduction patients often achieve better surgical outcomes after significant weight loss when they\u2019ve combined it with exercise,” Dr. Horschander adds.<\/span><\/p>\n

Engaging in regular physical activity, along with a <\/span>balanced diet<\/span><\/a>, also helps to <\/span>maintain optimal blood sugar levels<\/span><\/a>, improve insulin sensitivity, and boost overall well-being while on Ozempic. Additionally, incorporating strength training can promote muscle retention and metabolism. However, healthcare professionals emphasize the importance of monitoring how your body responds to weight loss medications and physical activity. Beginners should consult their healthcare provider at the start of their fitness journey.<\/span><\/p>\n

RELATED: <\/b>Do GLP-1s cause muscle loss?<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n

Does Ozempic affect athletic performance?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Some individuals may experience temporary Ozempic side effects like nausea or dizziness, which could impact athletic performance in the short term, says <\/span>Austin Shuxiao<\/span>, MD, a board-certified internist and founder of Peach IV. However, many people find that their overall energy levels and endurance improve as their bodies adjust to GLP-1 medications.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Here\u2019s what to expect when working out on Ozempic:<\/span><\/p>\n