The UK's most complete GLP-1 guide
Every Question Answered. Every Side Effect Explained.
- How GLP-1 medications work
- Mounjaro vs Wegovy compared
- Injection instructions
- Side effects & solutions
- What to eat on treatment
- FAQs answered
Free tracker included with every download this week
Resistance Exercises for Weight Loss in the UK
Resistance exercises are one of the most effective forms of physical activity for sustainable weight loss. Unlike cardio alone, strength training builds muscle mass, which increases your resting metabolic rate and helps your body burn more calories throughout the day. Combined with a calorie deficit and lifestyle changes, resistance training can significantly support weight management in the UK. For adults with obesity or significant excess weight, prescription medication options like GLP-1 injections are also available alongside exercise programmes to maximise results.
10,000+ calculations today · NHS-aligned thresholds · 100% free
Calculate Your BMI Instantly
Enter your height and weight below. Supports both imperial (stone & lbs) and metric (kg). Results include NHS category, healthy weight range, and ethnicity adjustments.
What Is BMI and Why Does It Matter?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is the most widely used screening tool for assessing whether your weight falls within a healthy range. Used by the NHS, GPs, and weight management services across the UK, BMI provides a quick snapshot of your weight relative to your height. The formula is simple: your weight in kilograms divided by your height in metres squared (kg/m²).
While BMI isn't a perfect measure — it doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, or fat distribution — it remains the standard first step in identifying potential weight-related health risks including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and certain cancers.
The NHS also recommends adjusted thresholds for people of South Asian, Chinese, or Black African heritage — a BMI of 23 or above is classified as overweight, and 27.5 as obese. Our calculator includes this adjustment as a one-click toggle.
Resistance Training and Weight Management Medication in the UK
Resistance exercises work best for weight loss when combined with other proven strategies. The NHS recommends 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week plus strength training on 2 or more days for adults. Resistance training offers unique benefits: it preserves muscle during weight loss, prevents metabolic slowdown, and can be adapted to any fitness level.
For adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or 27 or above with weight-related health conditions, prescription weight management medication is available in the UK. Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide) are GLP-1 injections that reduce appetite and support feeling fuller longer. Used alongside resistance exercises and a reduced-calorie diet, these medications can enhance weight loss outcomes. Clinical trials show average weight loss of 15–21% with Mounjaro and 15% with Wegovy — though individual results vary significantly.
- Resistance training preserves lean muscle during weight loss
- Prescription medications can be prescribed through NHS specialist services or private online assessment
- Combining exercise with medication offers better long-term results than either approach alone
Clinically BackedWeight Loss
No appointments. No waiting rooms. Just care — from a UK-regulated online pharmacy.
How It Works
Three simple steps to understand your weight and take action.
Enter your height and weight in our free calculator. Get your BMI, NHS category, healthy weight range, and ethnicity-adjusted thresholds instantly.
If your BMI suggests you're overweight or obese, explore our GLP-1 calculators to project potential weight loss on Mounjaro or Wegovy.
Use our progress tracker to log your weight weekly, visualise your journey with charts, and stay motivated — all stored privately in your browser.
Free Weight Loss Tools & Guides
Everything you need to understand your weight, explore medication options, and track your progress — completely free.
NHS Access and Private Options in the UK
If you're interested in prescription weight loss medication in the UK, your GP can refer you to a specialist tier 3 weight management service through the NHS. However, waiting lists vary significantly by region, and availability is not uniform across all areas.
Private access is also available — you can be assessed by a UK-licensed prescriber through online consultations without an NHS referral. Either way, eligibility is based on BMI, weight-related health conditions, and individual medical history.
Your GP is the best starting point. They can discuss whether prescription medication is right for you, assess your suitability, and help you understand how it fits alongside exercise and dietary changes. Use our free GLP-1 weight loss calculator to explore potential outcomes at different doses, and our BMI calculator to check your current health status.
- Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist
- Up to 22.5% body weight loss (SURMOUNT-1)
- Weekly injection, dose escalation over 20+ weeks
- Available via private prescription in the UK
- Doses: 2.5mg → 5mg → 7.5mg → 10mg → 12.5mg → 15mg
- GLP-1 receptor agonist
- Up to 15–17% body weight loss (STEP trials)
- Weekly injection, 5-step dose escalation
- NHS & private prescription available
- Doses: 0.25mg → 0.5mg → 1mg → 1.7mg → 2.4mg
Mounjaro vs Wegovy: Head-to-Head
A side-by-side comparison of the two most popular GLP-1 weight loss medications available in the UK.
| Feature | Mounjaro | Wegovy |
|---|---|---|
| Drug class | Dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist | GLP-1 agonist |
| Active ingredient | Tirzepatide | Semaglutide |
| Avg. weight loss | 15–22.5% | 12–17% |
| Key trial | SURMOUNT-1 (2022) | STEP 1 (2021) |
| Max dose | 15 mg weekly | 2.4 mg weekly |
| Escalation period | 20–32 weeks | 16–20 weeks |
| Administration | Weekly injection (pen) | Weekly injection (pen) |
| NHS availability | Private prescription only | NHS & private |
| Approx. private cost | £150–£250/month | £150–£300/month |
| Common side effects | Nausea, diarrhoea, constipation | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea |
Data sourced from SURMOUNT-1 and STEP 1 clinical trials. Costs are approximate and vary by provider. Always consult a prescriber.
Am I Eligible for Weight Loss Medication?
In the UK, eligibility for GLP-1 weight loss medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy is based on your BMI and overall health profile.
- BMI of 30 or above (obese)
- Age 18 or over
- No contraindicated conditions
- Committed to lifestyle changes
- BMI of 27 or above
- Plus type 2 diabetes
- Or high blood pressure
- Or obstructive sleep apnoea
Use our BMI calculator to check whether your BMI falls within the eligible range.
How We Built These Tools
Every calculator and guide on myweightcheck is built with accuracy and transparency in mind. Our BMI calculator uses the standard WHO formula with NHS-aligned category thresholds. Our GLP-1 projections are modelled on published clinical trial data from SURMOUNT and STEP studies.
All data stays on your device. We don't require sign-ups, and we don't store your health information on any server. Your progress tracker saves data locally in your browser using localStorage, so only you can see it.
We're based in the UK and our tools are designed specifically for UK users — supporting stone & lbs by default, referencing NHS guidelines, using NICE-approved medication data, and linking to GPhC-registered pharmacies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about BMI, weight loss medications, and our free UK tools.
Can I lose weight with resistance exercises alone without medication?
Yes, resistance training combined with a calorie deficit and healthy eating can support sustainable weight loss. However, for adults with obesity, the NHS recognises that medication can make weight loss more achievable when combined with exercise and dietary changes. Results vary by individual, genetics, and consistency.
What's the difference between Mounjaro and Wegovy for weight loss?
Both are prescription GLP-1 injections licensed in the UK for weight management. Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a dual GIP and GLP-1 agonist; Wegovy (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 agonist only. Clinical trials show similar average weight loss (15–21% and ~15% respectively), but individual results vary. Your prescriber will assess which is suitable for you.
How do I know if I'm eligible for prescription weight loss medication on the NHS?
Generally, you may be eligible if you have a BMI of 30 or above, or 27 or above with weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease. Your GP can assess your eligibility and refer you to specialist services if appropriate. Private assessment is also available.
Can I use resistance exercises and weight loss medication together?
Yes, and this combination is recommended. Prescription weight loss medications work best alongside regular physical activity (including resistance training) and a reduced-calorie diet. Exercise helps preserve muscle mass during weight loss and supports long-term health outcomes.
How long does it take to see weight loss results with resistance training and medication?
Resistance training effects on metabolism are gradual; most people notice body composition changes within 4–8 weeks. Prescription medications typically show noticeable appetite reduction within the first 2–4 weeks. Weight loss is usually measurable after 4–8 weeks. Individual timelines vary based on dose, diet adherence, and exercise consistency.
Ready to take control of your weight loss journey?
Start with a free BMI check, explore your GLP-1 options, or begin tracking your progress today. No sign-up. No cost. Just results.