GLP-1 Drugs: Shortcut or Steppingstone?

Let’s talk about a popular (and yes, controversial) topic in the health and fitness world right now: GLP-1 drugs—think Wegovy, Ozempic, and similar names. These prescription medications were originally developed to help people manage type 2 diabetes. But today, they’re making headlines for a different reason: weight loss.

Recently, someone asked me what I think about these drugs. So here’s my take on them.

Do They Work?

The short answer? Yes, they help people lose weight.

GLP-1 agonists work by slowing digestion and suppressing appetite. You feel fuller, you eat less, and the weight starts to drop. It’s not uncommon to hear stories of fast, dramatic results. But here's the part that gets glossed over:

The Catch

The moment you stop taking the drug—and most people eventually do—the hunger returns. Hard. And so does the weight. Not because the drug failed, but because no real, sustainable habits were ever built.

No nutritional changes. 

No strength training. 

No mindset shift. 

No foundation.

And that foundation? That’s everything.

The Fine Print

These drugs come with side effects that many people don’t talk about enough:

- Nausea

- Vomiting

- Diarrhea

- Constipation

- Muscle loss

- Fatigue

- Increased risk of gallbladder issues

Yes, you're losing weight—but often not the kind you want to lose. Muscle mass takes a hit, which slows your metabolism. And when that happens, the weight doesn’t just come back... it rebounds with interest.

Here’s the Truth

GLP-1s don’t fix the real problem. They don’t teach you how to shop for real food, cook a balanced meal, or say no to stress cravings. They don’t help you build muscle, build confidence, or build a lifestyle you can sustain.

They mute symptoms. But symptoms always come back.

So What Does Work?

- Eating real, whole foods

- Strength training regularly

- Prioritizing sleep, hydration, and recovery

- Learning to manage stress without using food as a crutch

You’re going to have to build those habits eventually if you want lasting results—so why not just start there?

Let’s Be Honest About Healthcare

The U.S. "healthcare" system isn’t set up to make you healthy. It’s a sick care system—built to keep you in the cycle, dependent on pills, prescriptions, and quick fixes.

But real healthcare? It’s happening right here—in your gym.

With our coaches. Our nutrition experts. Our community.

We’re not here to manage your symptoms. We’re here to help you eliminate them. From the inside out.

If You’re On a GLP-1 Right Now…

No judgment. For some, these drugs are a temporary bridge. A tool. A steppingstone. If you are currently a member at the gym and you are on a GLP-1, we applaud you for creating the lifestyle changes needed for long term success! But if you're relying on them as the solution? You’re building your house on sand.

Let us help you lay a real foundation:

→ Strong body. → Strong habits. → Strong mindset. No injections required.

Jason

axisstrengthtraining.com