Oldham Active launches referrals for GLP-1 users

Community leisure trust, Oldham Active, has launched an exercise referral pathway for people using GLP-1 weight loss medications such as Ozempic and Mounjaro.

The new pathway is available to people who have been prescribed GLP-1 medications by their GP or are purchasing them privately.

Health and social prescribers across Oldham can now refer patients with a BMI of over 30 to Oldham Active’s specially trained fitness team for tailored exercise support alongside their GLP-1 medication.

The pathway is designed to help them preserve and build muscle while taking the medication through targeted exercise and nutrition guidance.

Oldham Active is one of the first leisure providers in the UK to offer this specialist service, in line with the latest WHO guidelines, published last week, which recommend physical activity alongside GLP-1 treatment for long-term success.

Lauren Connis, Head of Health and Wellbeing at Oldham Active, said: “Following our fitness team’s specialist training earlier this year, we’re now putting that knowledge into practice by offering a dedicated referral pathway for people using GLP-1 medications. This service directly supports the recent WHO guidance that medication alone won’t solve the obesity challenge. Our specially trained team understand that without appropriate exercise, two-thirds of weight lost can be muscle rather than fat, which can lead to significant weight regain when the medication is stopped.”