Ozempic, weight-loss drugs rise and the fitness industry reacts (The Streat)

Posted: Mar 28, 2024 in In the News

This article originally appeared in The Street on March 28, 2024.

 

Ozempic, weight-loss drugs rise and the fitness industry reacts

By Jeffery Quiggle

As drugs originally developed for people with type 2 diabetes become increasingly popular for their weight loss effects, ramifications are being felt in a number of ways.

Novo Nordisk  (NVO) , for example, manufactures Ozempic and Wegovy. Ozempic is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating diabetes, and Wegovy is approved by the FDA for weight management.

These drugs, known as GLP-1 medications, have recently been the subject of some controversy as supply shortages for people with diabetes have been caused because of demand by others for the medications' weight-loss effects.

But the increased use of the drugs for weight loss also affects the fitness industry.

The Street recently caught up with Sabrena Jo, senior director of science and research at the American Council on Exercise (ACE), a nonprofit organization that certifies health coaches and exercise professionals.

"The ACE mission inspires us to collaborate with like-minded organizations, top research institutions, policymakers on the federal and state level, fitness industry leaders and diverse community organizations to increase physical activity for improved public health," writes the ACE website. 

TheStreet exchanged some questions and answers with Jo and gathered some of her thoughts about the weight loss drugs and their impact on the fitness industry and its clients.

TheStreet: Financially speaking, have you seen any evidence of people having to choose whether to spend their money on weight loss drugs or health coaches?

Sabrena Jo: Personally, I have not, but it stands to reason that given the high cost of these medications, some individuals may find themselves having to prioritize their spending. This situation highlights the need for a broader conversation about accessibility to weight loss interventions. While some may opt for the medication due to its perceived quick results, others value the long-term benefits and personalized support offered by health coaches. This dilemma further underlines the importance of integrated approaches that offer both medical and lifestyle support to manage weight effectively.

Ultimately, the rise of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic is a significant development in the fight against obesity, necessitating a shift in the health and fitness industry towards more integrated and personalized approaches to weight management. This evolution offers both challenges and opportunities for professionals and clients alike, emphasizing the need for collaboration, education, and a focus on sustainable health changes.

...Read the full article here.