GLP-1 Users Cut Daily Steps by 560 After Starting Weight-Loss Drugs

3 articles · Updated · Healthline · Jun 13

753 people with obesity logged lower activity after beginning GLP-1 drugs, with average daily steps falling from 5,047 to 4,487 and moderate-to-vigorous exercise dropping from 28 to 22 minutes.
Fitbit-linked data from the NIH All of Us program showed the biggest declines in men and in patients with muscle or joint pain, while age, prior stroke and heart failure did not materially change the pattern.
Lead author Sajana Maharjan said the findings show weight loss from GLP-1 treatment does not automatically translate into more exercise and supports targeted activity programs alongside medication.
The study, presented at ENDO 2026 and not yet peer-reviewed, adds to concerns that fatigue and muscle loss during GLP-1 treatment can undermine fitness and long-term weight maintenance without regular exercise.