Weight training preserves muscle on Mounjaro
WA study of 120 people found those who weight-trained lost 25% less lean tissue than non-trainees on tirzepatide.
University of Western Australia researchers studied obese and overweight adults aged 50 to 70 over 40 weeks. Half trained with weights three times weekly, half did not.
All participants took tirzepatide (Mounjaro) and received advice on hydration, protein and fibre. The training group lost 22.28kg total (17.98kg fat, 4.3kg lean tissue) and gained 10% strength.
The non-training group lost 22.61kg (17.19kg fat, 5.42kg lean tissue) and lost 10% strength. The findings were published in Nature Medicine.
Lead researcher Professor Danny Green said combining weight-loss medication with strength training improves overall health outcomes and could extend healthspan, the years people live free from chronic disease.
- 120 people aged 50 to 70
- Study participants
- 40 weeks
- Duration
- 25 percent less lean tissue lost
- Muscle preserved with training
- 3 resistance sessions per week
- Training frequency
Why it mattersFor Australians on weight-loss drugs, this reveals how to prevent muscle wasting that weakens bones and increases fall risk as people age.
AustraliaUWA researchers offer Australian guidance for anyone using Mounjaro or similar medications, showing weight training is not optional but central to safe weight loss.
