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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Weight Training Schedule for Weight Loss in the UK
Weight training is one of the most effective components of a sustainable weight loss programme, helping you build muscle, increase metabolism, and improve overall fitness. Combined with dietary changes and, for eligible adults, prescription weight management medication available in the UK, a structured training schedule can significantly support your weight loss goals. This guide explains how to approach weight training for weight loss and explores prescription options available through NHS and private routes.
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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 Prescription Weight Management Options
For adults struggling with weight management in the UK, prescription medications are available alongside exercise and diet changes. Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide) are GLP-1 and dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist injections licensed for weight loss in the UK. Clinical trials showed these medications helped participants lose an average of 15–21% of body weight when combined with lifestyle changes including exercise.
- Mounjaro: Once-weekly injection, doses 2.5–15 mg, average weight loss 15–21%
- Wegovy: Once-weekly injection, doses 0.25–2.4 mg, average weight loss around 15%
- Saxenda (liraglutide): Daily injection alternative, up to 3 mg per day
Eligibility typically includes adults with BMI ≥30, or BMI 27–29.9 with weight-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. Prescription weight loss medication is most effective when paired with structured exercise and reduced-calorie diet.
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 vs Private Access and Getting Started
In the UK, prescription weight management medication can be accessed through two routes. NHS access requires referral to a specialist tier 3 weight management service—your GP can discuss this with you, though waiting lists vary significantly by region. Private access is available through GPhC-registered online prescribers following a clinical assessment, without an NHS referral.
Before starting any weight loss programme, calculate your BMI using our free BMI calculator to understand your starting point. If you're interested in exploring medication options, speak with your GP or a licensed prescriber about whether you're eligible. Your GP can also advise on appropriate weight training intensity and frequency to safely combine with medication.
To maximise results, track your progress throughout your weight loss journey. Our free progress tracker helps you log weight changes, exercise consistency, and overall health improvements. Use our GLP-1 weight loss calculator to estimate potential outcomes at different medication doses if you're considering prescription options. Remember that sustainable weight loss combines regular exercise, calorie deficit through diet, and—where appropriate—prescription medication alongside professional guidance.
- 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 weight training alone for weight loss without medication?
Yes, weight training combined with a calorie deficit through diet can support weight loss. However, if you have a BMI ≥30 or struggle with appetite control, prescription weight management medication may enhance results when combined with exercise and diet. Speak with your GP about what's appropriate for your situation.
How often should I do weight training when using weight loss medication?
Most guidance suggests 2–3 sessions per week of resistance training, alongside 150 minutes of moderate cardio weekly. When taking GLP-1 medication like Mounjaro or Wegovy, maintain adequate protein intake to preserve muscle during weight loss. Your GP or a fitness professional can tailor advice to your fitness level.
What's the difference between Mounjaro and Wegovy for weight loss in the UK?
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist with average weight loss of 15–21%, while Wegovy (semaglutide) is a single GLP-1 agonist with average weight loss around 15%. Both are prescription-only, once-weekly injections. Individual results vary; a prescriber will assess which is suitable for you.
How do I know if I'm eligible for prescription weight loss medication on the NHS?
NHS eligibility typically includes adults with BMI ≥30, or BMI 27–29.9 with weight-related health conditions. Access is through specialist tier 3 weight management services via GP referral. Availability varies by region. Contact your GP to discuss referral options in your area.
Can I combine weight training with weight loss medication safely?
Yes, weight training is safe alongside prescription weight loss medication. In fact, resistance exercise helps preserve muscle mass during weight loss. Ensure adequate protein intake, stay hydrated, and inform your prescriber of your exercise routine. If you experience unusual fatigue or symptoms, consult your GP.
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.