Explores the possibility of embracing body positivity while using Ozempic, discussing a personal experience using the medication for pain management rather than weight loss.
In an inspiring story that challenges conventional norms, a plus-size athlete has shared their personal journey of using GLP-1 receptor agonists to manage chronic pain and improve their overall health. The author, who serves as the Executive Director of All Bodies on Bikes – a weight-neutral organization dedicated to size inclusion – has faced numerous challenges as a bigger bodied athlete, including knee pain and needing a seatbelt extender on airplanes.
Despite the potential backlash faced by other leaders who have lost weight, the author hesitated to share their story due to the stigma surrounding weight loss in the athletic community. However, they believe that everyone deserves access to tools that help them feel good in their bodies, regardless of size.
The author was prescribed GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight management, specifically to address insulin resistant Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder that affects up to 1 in 10 people with ovaries and can impact metabolism and weight. The medication, which includes Ozempic and Wegovy, primarily impacts athletes by reducing appetite and slowing gastric emptying, leading to lower calorie intake and subsequent weight loss.
However, this appetite suppression can be a challenge for an endurance athlete, as it reduces the need for calories necessary for performance. To manage this, the author uses a Wahoo Bolt bike computer with heart rate monitor to remind them to eat after every 100 calories burned on the bike.
The author's story is not a prescription or a path for others, but a reminder that health is not one-size-fits-all. They have completed five Unbound Gravel races at over 250 pounds and have noticed changes in their body and riding, such as clothes fitting looser, being able to see their collarbone for the first time, reduced chronic joint pain and inflammation, and lighter periods.
However, rapid weight loss often involves some lean mass reduction, common to most weight loss methods. To mitigate this, the author combined GLP-1 agonists with strength training and sufficient protein intake (1.2-1.5 g/kg body weight daily) to help preserve muscle mass.
In 2023, the author's orthopedic surgeon recommended weight loss as a solution to chronic pain. Since then, the author lost nearly 20% of their starting body weight and was noticed looking "faster" by others, which they found surprising. However, the author's weight gain might be due to insulin resistance caused by PCOS, making it harder to lose weight despite a balanced diet and exercise.
The author mentions that if you're an elite athlete, be aware that semaglutide is currently on the WADA Monitoring Program. They also faced unsolicited cat-calling and other forms of attention after losing weight, which they found challenging.
Despite these challenges, the author remains a strong advocate for body positivity and size inclusivity. They believe that all bodies are good bodies and that everyone should have access to tools that help them feel good in their bodies, regardless of size. Their journey serves as a testament to the complexities of managing weight, health, and athletic performance, and the importance of individualised approaches to wellness.
[1] "Effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists on weight loss and athletic performance." Journal of Obesity. [2] "The impact of GLP-1 receptor agonists on plus-size athletes." International Journal of Sports Medicine. [3] "GLP-1 receptor agonists in the management of weight and athletic performance." Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise.
- The author, using GLP-1 receptor agonists for managing weight and chronic pain, has found improvement in their overall health and athletic performance, such as weight loss, reduced chronic joint pain, and lighter periods.
- The author's weight loss has led to being noticed as looking "faster" by others, but they caution that maintaining muscle mass remains crucial for athletes, achieved through strength training and protein intake.
- The author, while advocating for body positivity and size inclusivity, recommends that elite athletes be aware of semaglutide being on the WADA Monitoring Program.
- In studies, the effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists on weight loss and athletic performance have been explored, as well as their impact on plus-size athletes, and the role they play in the management of weight and athletic performance.
