So you lost the weight with Ozempic — now what?

Tens of millions of people around the world have experienced their own GLP-1 journeys as prescription weight-loss medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Zepbound have become increasingly available.

In the U.S. alone, the percentage of adults who currently takes GLP-1 medications for weight loss has cimbed from just 3% in 2024 to 11% in 2026, per data from Gallup.

And just as people must decide whether to start a weight-loss medication, many will eventually face another question: When is the right time to come off it — and what happens next? Increasingly, the conversation is shifting toward life after GLP-1s, and what some have dubbed the “Ozempic cliff.”

Research suggests that roughly half of patients taking GLP-1 medications discontinue treatment within 12 months, with some studies putting one-year discontinuation rates between 50% and 75%.

And, in many cases, the weight does eventually come back.

A University of Oxford meta-analysis from January found that patients who stopped GLP-1 therapy regained weight at a rate of 0.4 kg per month, returning to their original baseline weight within approximately 1.7 years.

However, experts say there are strategies that may help reduce the risk of weight regain after stopping GLP-1 medications, and maintaining a regular workout routine is a key part of that equation.

Some organizations have even taikored programs to help support the transition — the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) is one of them.

A personal trainer teaches about exercise deadlift posture. (torwaiphoto – stock.adobe.com) torwaiphoto – stock.adobe.com

NASM, which is a well-known fitness certification organization for personal trainers, is rolling out a specialized training program addressing GLP-1 medications and the role of personal trainers in supporting clients before, during and after medication use.

The curriculm focuses on two evidence-based approaches that can be particularly effective for long-term weight management after GLP-1 use: behavior change and resistance training — which not only helps keep the weight off, but has also been shown to help clients build muscle over time.

According to the Mayo Clinic, while some loss of lean mass can occur during GLP-1 therapy, structured resistance training and enough protein intake are among the key evidence-backed strategies for preserving and rebuilding muscle. NASM-certified trainers are trained to help clients with both goals.

The need for that kind of training has become very clear. According to NASM’s recent State of the Personal Trainer report, 73% of personal trainers say clients have asked them about GLP-1 medications — and trainers want to be prepared.

As the GLP-1 conversation shifts toward life after treatment, personal trainers certified through NASM now have the skillset to help clients build the strength as well as healthy habits needed to maintain their progress and keep the weight off long-term.

The new course, “Understanding Weight Loss Medications,” starts at $99 and includes everything from personalized study materials to a final online certifcation exam.

Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post

This article was written by Miska Salemann, New York Post Commerce Writer/Reporter. As a health-forward member of Gen Z, Miska seeks out experts to weigh in on the benefits, safety and designs of both trending and tried-and-true fitness equipment, workout clothing, dietary supplements and more. Taking matters into her own hands, Miska intrepidly tests wellness products, ranging from Bryan Johnson’s Blueprint Longevity Mix to the viral Oura Ring to Jennifer Aniston’s favorite workout platform – often with her adorable toddler by her side. Before joining The Post, Miska covered lifestyle and consumer topics for the U.S. Sun and The Cannon Beach Gazette.