Guidance on weight management medications published
CIMSPA and ukactive collaborate to aid the sector’s understanding of pharmacological treatments used for weight loss.
CIMPSA (Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity) and ukactive have published guidance to support professionals in the sport and physical activity sector in learning the role of weight reduction medicines, such as GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) and other similar medications and their implications for health, fitness, and performance.
The guidance aims to:
- Increase awareness of pharmacological treatments, such as GLP-1 and their physiological effects
- Provide practical strategies and support for tailoring activity programme and lifestyle advice
- Highlight the importance of knowing when to refer clients to healthcare professionals
The document has been informed by evidence-based research and consultation with healthcare experts and professionals from the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP), Bodyline Medical Wellness Clinics and All About Obesity.
By aligning with the sector’s professional standards for professional competence and ethical practice, which are managed by CIMSPA, it ensures that professionals working in the sector are prepared to meet the needs of diverse client groups while, promoting safe and effective physical activity interventions.
Natasha Eason - Associate Director for Education at CIMSPA, said:
“With the ever-increasing profile and prevalence of weight management medications in the UK, it’s imperative for the sector’s workforce to be equipped with the knowledge to best support clients who may be using, or considering using, these medications.
“We would encourage all professionals in the sport and physical activity sector to make use of this resource, which will assist them in continuing to deliver high quality, client and participant-centred support.”
Kenny Butler, Strategic Lead, Health & Wellbeing at ukactive, added:
“The physical activity sector is vital in supporting weight management services, ensuring people living with obesity experience the full physical and mental benefits of being active through safe, community spaces and a supportive workforce.
“Like any chronic, long-term condition, managing obesity can be complex, so this guidance will help operators of gyms, pools and leisure centres to support people using weight-loss drugs, which will only be successful if they are utilised in a holistic and sustainable way, supported by physical activity."
Webinar: Weight management medication (Dec 2024)
