Combining Resistance Training with Semaglutide Use: Effects on Body Composition, Muscle Morphology, Strength, and Indices of Metabolism

We examined the effects of combining resistance training (RT) with semaglutide use on body composition, metabolism, strength, and muscle thickness and quality. Men and women (n = 11) aged 30–55 years participated in this study. Measurements included resting metabolic rate, body composition, fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, ultrasound-derived muscle thickness and quality of upper and lower extremity musculature, chest press and leg press 10-repetition maximum (10RM), and handgrip strength. Participants continued their medication use for four weeks without RT (GLP-1), and this was followed by an eight-week RT protocol alongside continued medication use (GLP-1+RT). Body mass decreased 0.991 kg (p = 0.019) and 2.627 kg (p = 0.011) during GLP-1 and GLP-1+RT, respectively. Fat mass and body fat percentage decreased significantly during GLP-1+RT (−3.355 kg, p = 0.008 and −3.073%, p = 0.013, respectively). There was a non-significant increase (1.1 kg) in fat-free mass. Muscle thickness and quality were maintained. Leg press and chest press 10RM improved during GLP-1+RT (p < 0.001 and p = 0.006, respectively). This exploratory study provides context regarding RT’s effects on fat-free mass, strength, and size and quality of muscle in individuals using semaglutide.