Resistance training preserves muscle and boosts strength in GLP-1 weight loss, study finds

A study published in Nature Medicine found that resistance training preserves muscle and boosts strength in people taking GLP-1 weight-loss drugs like tirzepatide, countering typical lean mass loss. The 40-week T-REx trial followed 120 obese adults aged 50-70 on tirzepatide. Those who trained lost 25% less lean tissue and gained 10% strength, while non-trainers lost 10% strength, despite similar weight loss of about 22 kg. Lead investigator Danny Green from the University of Western Australia said resistance exercise should be part of the prescription for weight-loss drug users, potentially extending healthy lifespan by improving overall function and body composition.