Why the Weight Loss Injection Era Doesn’t Spell the Death of Strength Training

As the conversation about weight loss injection medication grows, personal trainer and midlife health advocate Edwina Jenner is calling for a shift in focus, encouraging people to view these injections not as a cure-all but as part of a longer-term strategy for living longer and in better health.

While recognising the immense potential benefits of these medications, Jenner is determined to ensure that strength training is not overlooked and remains a vital component in securing long-term independence, mobility, and strength, as well as preventing osteoporosis through improved bone health.

“There is a narrative emerging that these drugs signal the end of the weight loss industry,” says Edwina. “We need to reframe this and see it as the end of fad diets, which is no bad thing.

“Looking after your muscle health and bone density is still vital in midlife, with or without weight loss injections. There is no shortcut when it comes to muscle and bone health. Both significantly influence your long-term health outcomes and your ability to maintain independence.”

Edwina’s approach is grounded in evidence-based fitness tailored to midlife women, and while she acknowledges the emotional and physical benefits of weight loss injections, she explains:

“Carrying less weight can result in more energy, improved joint health, better sleep, reduced inflammation, tighter blood sugar control, and a lower risk of chronic diseases. The emotional wins, such as improved motivation and confidence, are also wonderful and positive outcomes. What we need to remember, is that unless you are actively working to preserve your muscle mass and bone strength, you risk losing essential physical resilience that will support you into old age, regardless of how much weight you lose.”

According to recent statistics from the International Osteoporosis Foundation, one in three women worldwide over the age of 50 will experience osteoporotic fractures in their lifetime. Each fracture signals an increased risk of further fractures. Moreover, osteoporosis results in a decreased quality of life, increased disability, and a shortened lifespan.

With this in mind, Edwina is passionate about emphasising that strength training is a non-negotiable element of any health plan, particularly for women navigating midlife and beyond.

She adds, “Weight loss injections may reduce body weight, but they cannot build strength and maintaining and improving muscle mass requires consistent effort.”

Through her tailored strength training programmes and resources, Jenner’s ethos is simple: she aims to equip midlife women with the knowledge and confidence to strength train regularly and proactively prepare for the physical transitions of perimenopause and ageing.

“These medications are not going away, but what is important is that we approach them with balance, using them as part of a broader, sustainable health strategy. As a personal trainer, I want to learn to work with these new medications rather than against them, as that is what is best for my clients,” Edwina explains.

By raising awareness of how weight loss injections can work alongside strength training, Jenner is championing a more holistic approach to midlife fitness.

About Edwina, PT and Certified Menopause Health Coach

Edwina is a dedicated personal trainer and certified menopause health coach, passionate about empowering midlife women to thrive during their menopause experience. With a wealth of expertise gained from owning her own PT studio, Strengthworx, and running successful online menopause education and strength training programmes, Edwina is committed to educating women on how to take control of their health through strength training and balanced nutrition.

She has helped countless clients transform their bodies and lives by embracing regular strength training, enabling them to shed excess weight, alleviate pain, and build confidence. Her clients regain control of their health and feel strong, capable, and confident, allowing them to enjoy life to the fullest without the burden of health-related worries.

Her mission is to redefine healthy ageing by demonstrating that when women feel better, they live better—stronger, healthier, and more fulfilled lives.

For more information, visit www.edwinajenner.com and for interviews, images, and trial strength sessions, contact Natalie Trice via natalietrice@natalietrice.co.uk

Image credit to KL Creative Photography.