Confessions of a Personal Trainer: Why I tried a GLP-1
Confessions of a Personal Trainer: Why I Tried a GLP-1.
By Cynthia M. Walker
If you know me, you know I’m not judgmental. Truly. I want everyone to do what helps them feel confident, empowered and thriving. What I am against? Quick fixes. We’ve seen so many trends come and go over many years, weight watchers, Noom, Nutrisystem, Hydroxycut, Atkins, Keto, the list goes on and on. Some people had success with them... temporarily. But most aren’t sustainable or healthy long-term.
I’m not just speaking as a personal trainer. I’m speaking as a 47-year-old perimenopausal woman who has been active her entire life. I got serious about strength training at 26. I’ve gone through postpartum body changes, fitness competition prep, and the aftermath of chasing that “perfect” 16% body fat 116lb body. Now my body seems like it is constantly changing. This is the stage of life I’m in.
I had been trying to lose 7lbs. Not 5, not 10, just 7. I’ve been the same weight for over two years. A friend told me, “It’s actually amazing you have maintained your weight for so long” She was right. So, I reflected on what I do well: Strength 3-4X week, walk consistently, eat 80% great and 20% “relaxed”. I meditate, practice restorative yoga weekly, and get a monthly massage. Take pride in caring for yourself.
GLP-1 medications (like semiglutide, tirzepatide) mimic a natural hormone in your body called glucagon-like peptide-1/ This hormone helps regulate blood sugar, slows digestion, and signals fullness to the brain- so you feel full faster and have less appetite. These medications can be life-changing for some people. but they also come with side effects, costs and tradeoffs.
Before my wedding, I tried tirzepetide under the supervision of my naturopath. I lost 6lbs in 8 weeks and felt confident on my wedding day. But I also felt nauseous barely hungry and worried about losing muscle. I needed anti-nausea chews and had to consciously force myself to eat. The Cost? $1,000 for 6 pounds. Not sustainable for me.
When I stopped the medication, my appetite returned and I gained back 4 pounds. And I’m okay with that. I’ve tried trends as “field research” since becoming a trainer in 2013- so I can share real experience, not just theory.
GLP-1 are not evil. They’re not cheating. They can be helpful for the right person, with medical/nutritional guidance. But they are not a replacement for habits, strength training, protein, movement, sleep, stress management and mental health support. Without habits, weight often returns when the medication stops.
Do your research. Protect your muscles. Take care of your mental health. Build habits that support you for decades- not just a photo moment. You deserve to feel strong, capable and confident in every stage of life.
If you’re curious about GLP-1 midlife training, or how to build habits that actually last, I’m always happy to talk. This is what I do- and I care deeply about you doing it the right way.