Good news—yes, Orangetheory is definitely for you. In fact, exercise is key to maximizing the benefits of GLP-1 treatments and supporting your overall health. So, let’s dive into why Orangetheory is the perfect complement to your GLP-1 journey.
5 Benefits of Orangetheory While On GLP-1 Medications
Orangetheory isn’t just another fitness class. It’s a dynamic, total-body workout that combines strength and cardio to help build muscle, boost your metabolism, and burn more calories – all essential parts of a weight loss journey.
Here are 5 ways Orangetheory can support you while on GLP-1 meds:
1. Preserve & Build Muscle Mass
Staying active on GLP-1 medications is key to preserving muscle mass. While these medications can help you lose weight, they don’t differentiate between fat and lean muscle—so without exercise, you could lose valuable muscle along with the fat.
That’s where Orangetheory comes in. Our Orange60 classes combine cardio with weights and resistance training to build and maintain muscle, while Strength50 focuses solely on strength to increase lean muscle and improve movement. These workouts will help maintain muscle, which is essential for weight loss, metabolism, and overall health—especially when using GLP-1 medications to burn fat.
2. Enhance Cardiovascular Health
While GLP-1s can help manage blood sugar and lower the risk of heart-related issues, they’re not a substitute for the powerful benefits of exercise. Combining these medications with exercise helps prevent heart disease, especially for those with type 2 diabetes or obesity.
Aerobic exercise, like the kind you get from a good cardio session, does wonders for your heart. It strengthens it, improves circulation, and helps keep your blood pressure in check – key factors in heart health. Orangetheory’s workouts include heart rate-based zone training on the treadmill and rowers, designed to boost cardiovascular health while tracking member heart rates. After class, members get a detailed performance summary, which over time not only helps members hit their fitness goals, it also lowers the risk of heart disease and stroke.
3. Boost Metabolism and Fat Loss
While GLP-1s help with appetite control and calorie reduction, exercise is still key to keeping your metabolism running smoothly and preventing it from slowing down over time.
So, how does Orangetheory help? Through heart rate-based zone training, Orangetheory workouts boost fat loss by improving metabolic efficiency and burning more calories. Co-founder Ellen Latham explains that earning at least 12 Splat Points—minutes spent in the Orange and Red heart rate zones—is the sweet spot for maximum calorie burn. And the best part is that you keep burning calories for up to 24 hours after your workout!
4. Improve Mental Health and Well-being
Mental health plays a huge role in any weight-loss journey, and while GLP-1 meds help with the physical side, Orangetheory can be a game changer for your mind. Exercise naturally boosts endorphins, the “feel-good” chemicals that reduce anxiety, depression, and stress.
As Elle Woods famously put it in Legally Blonde: “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy.” Add in the social support and accountability of a group fitness class like Orangetheory, and you’ll leave every workout feeling fitter AND happier with that post-workout glow.
5. Create Sustainable, Long-Term Results
GLP-1 medications can help you hit short-term weight loss goals, but it’s lifestyle changes like exercise that are key for long-term weight maintenance.
Don’t hesitate to lean on your triple-certified Orangetheory coach—they’re experts in helping you find the right class routine to support your goals. Whether you’re just starting or already on your fitness journey, our coaches offer personalized, flexible advice to help you build lasting habits and achieve real results.
At Orangetheory, we're all about supporting you throughout your GLP-1 journey. With the right mix of movement, strength, and community, we’re here to help you reach your goals and live a longer, more vibrant life.
