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
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Skipping Rope Weight Loss and UK Prescription Options
Skipping rope is an excellent cardiovascular activity that burns significant calories and supports weight management alongside lifestyle changes. However, for many adults in the UK struggling with excess weight, prescription weight loss medication offers additional clinical support. This guide explores how skipping rope fits into a broader weight management strategy, and what prescription options are available through the NHS and privately if you're eligible for medical support.
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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.
UK-Licensed Prescription Weight Loss Medications
Three prescription medications are currently licensed in the UK for weight management in eligible adults:
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide) — a once-weekly injection that activates both GIP and GLP-1 hormone pathways. Clinical trials showed average weight loss of 15–21% of body weight at the maximum 15mg dose, when combined with reduced-calorie diet and physical activity.
- Wegovy (semaglutide) — a once-weekly GLP-1 injection. STEP-1 trial data showed approximately 15% average body weight loss at the 2.4mg maintenance dose alongside lifestyle changes.
- Saxenda (liraglutide) — a daily GLP-1 injection (less commonly used than Mounjaro and Wegovy). Results vary, but average weight loss is typically 5–10% of body weight.
All three are prescription-only and require a clinical assessment to determine suitability. Individual results vary significantly. These medications are most effective when combined with sustained dietary changes and increased physical activity — similar to how skipping rope works best as part of a comprehensive fitness approach.
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.
Who Is Eligible for Prescription Weight Loss Treatment in the UK?
You may be eligible for prescription weight loss medication if you have a BMI of 30 or above, or a BMI of 27–29.9 with at least one weight-related health condition (such as type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnoea). For adults of South Asian, Chinese, Black African, or Black Caribbean heritage, lower BMI thresholds may apply. Access through the NHS is via specialist tier 3/4 weight management services — typically involving a referral from your GP and a clinical assessment. Private prescription is also available through online consultations with UK-licensed prescribers if you prefer faster access. Calculate your BMI above using our free tool to check where you stand, then discuss options with your GP or a licensed healthcare professional.
- 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 use skipping rope instead of taking weight loss medication?
Skipping rope is excellent for cardiovascular fitness and burns significant calories, but it works best combined with dietary changes rather than as a sole weight loss strategy. For adults with BMI ≥30 or significant weight-related health conditions, prescription medication alongside exercise and diet may be more effective. Your GP can advise on the best approach for your individual circumstances.
How much weight can skipping rope help me lose?
Weight loss from skipping rope depends on frequency, intensity, and your overall calorie intake. Skipping for 30 minutes can burn 300–400 calories, but sustainable weight loss requires a calorie deficit of approximately 500 kcal/day, meaning diet is crucial. The NHS recommends aiming for 0.5–1kg per week weight loss for sustainable results.
Are Mounjaro and Wegovy available on the NHS?
Yes, both Mounjaro and Wegovy are approved by NICE for NHS use in eligible adults with obesity or overweight with comorbidities. Access is through specialist weight management services following a GP referral. Availability and waiting times vary significantly by region. Private access is also available without an NHS referral through licensed prescribers.
What is the difference between GLP-1 medications like Wegovy and dual GIP/GLP-1 like Mounjaro?
Wegovy (GLP-1 only) works on one hormone pathway, while Mounjaro (GIP/GLP-1) works on two. Clinical trials suggest Mounjaro may achieve slightly greater average weight loss (up to 21% vs 15%), but both are effective. Individual response varies. Your prescriber will assess which is more suitable based on your medical history and needs.
How do I find out if I'm eligible for prescription weight loss medication?
Start by calculating your BMI using our free BMI calculator on this page. If your BMI is 30 or above, or 27–29.9 with weight-related health conditions, discuss prescription options with your GP. They can refer you to specialist services or you can arrange a private online consultation with a UK-licensed prescriber for faster assessment.
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.