On February 12, 2025, in the vibrant town of Gilbert, AZ, the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) proudly announces the launch of its fresh course, “Understanding Weight Loss Medications: A Guide for Fitness and Wellness Professionals.” This course is meticulously crafted to empower fitness and wellness experts with the essential strategies and knowledge required to support clients using glucagon-like peptide-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GLP-1/GIP) medications, steering them toward healthier lifestyles.
As GLP-1 and GIP agonists gain traction in the fight against obesity, research indicates that between 8-12% of adults in the U.S. have adopted these medications, with around 6% actively using them. These statistics underscore the increasing relevance of weight loss medications within today’s healthcare framework. NASM acknowledges this shift; hence, they are dedicated to ensuring fitness leaders are equipped to understand and address the unique challenges faced by clients undergoing this treatment.
Mike Fantigrassi, NASM’s Head of Product, emphasises the course’s importance: “We recognise the growing prevalence of GLP-1/GIP medications in use by exercising populations and believe it’s imperative for fitness and wellness professionals to be well-informed about these drugs.” The programme not only imparts crucial knowledge but also inspires professionals to create exercise plans tailored to clients’ specific medical needs, fostering a safe environment for sustainable health.
The course dives deep into the latest findings surrounding GLP-1/GIP medications, focusing on both approved and investigational drugs from the FDA. Attendees will unravel the complexities of semaglutide and tirzepatide, exploring their mechanisms, potential side effects, and health implications. Moreover, it highlights the critical role fitness and wellness professionals play in guiding individuals towards balanced lifestyles during medically supported weight loss.
Course objectives include: identifying health risks related to obesity, comparing GLP-1 and GIP medications, acknowledging their benefits and common side effects, and delivering comprehensive support involving exercise instruction, nutrition, and behavioural coaching. Overall, NASM’s course arms professionals with evidence-based research and practical strategies aimed to enhance clients’ well-being during their weight loss journeys.
To embark on this educational adventure, interested individuals can learn more or register at www.nasm.org/glp-1. NASM, a beacon of evidence-based learning, has been a leader in fitness education for over 35 years, offering insight-rich courses powered by scientific research founded on the Optimum Performance Training (OPT™) model. Join this journey to elevate the art of fitness and wellness coaching.
NASM has launched the course “Understanding Weight Loss Medications: A Guide for Fitness and Wellness Professionals” to equip industry professionals with the knowledge to support clients using GLP-1/GIP medications for weight loss. The course covers essential topics like medication effects, side effects, and fitness guidance, all backed by research. By addressing the growing prevalence of these medications, NASM aims to enhance the quality of support provided to clients, ensuring safe and effective weight management.
In conclusion, NASM’s new course equips fitness and wellness professionals with vital insights into GLP-1/GIP medications, essential for effectively supporting clients on a weight loss journey. By merging evidence-based knowledge with practical coaching techniques, NASM empowers professionals to offer tailored guidance, ensuring safety and sustainability in health. This initiative not only reflects NASM’s commitment to professional development but also addresses a crucial aspect of modern healthcare.
Original Source: www.globenewswire.com
