With the increasing rollout of GLP-1 medications for weight management, Active Blackpool is proud to be enhancing our team’s understanding and readiness to support residents on their health and wellbeing journeys.

As part of this commitment, we’ve invested in the Future Fit GLP-1 training course for 29 staff members across our service. The one day course was delivered by Dr Hussain Al-Zubaidi, celebrity TV doctor and Physical Activity Clinical Champion for the Royal College of General Practitioners, offering valuable insights into how GLP-1 medications work, their potential side effects and how to support individuals effectively.

Rapid weight loss, especially when supported by GLP-1 medications, can result in 25–39% of weight lost coming from lean tissue, including muscle and bone. That’s why our role goes far beyond exercise alone. At Active Blackpool, we’re integrating this knowledge into structured pathways developed by our Referral team, ensuring residents receive wraparound support that includes:

• Resistance training to preserve lean tissue
• Body composition monitoring using our Tanita scales
• Strength tracking and personalised programming via our state-of-the-art EGYM equipment

These pathways will be embedded into our Exercise Referral programmes and complement our existing obesity and diabetes pathway. As the use of GLP-1 medications becomes more widespread, Active Blackpool is preparing to provide lifestyle support that aligns with the care offered by GPs and healthcare professionals. Our approach will enable us to offer holistic support before, during and after treatment, helping residents maintain muscle mass, improve bone health and feel psychologically supported throughout their journey.

We are excited to welcome new members into our centres and proud to offer a service that reflects the latest in health innovation, delivered by a team that is trained, informed and ready to make a difference.