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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Workout Program For Weight Loss — UK Health Guide
A structured workout program is one of the most effective tools for weight loss, but exercise alone often works better when combined with other strategies. In the UK, many adults are now exploring comprehensive weight management approaches that include fitness routines alongside dietary changes and, for some, prescription medication. This guide explains how to build an effective workout program for weight loss and how prescription weight management options can complement your fitness efforts for better results.
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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.
Prescription Weight Loss Options Available in the UK
For adults struggling with weight management, the UK now offers several prescription-only medications alongside traditional approaches like exercise and diet. Three main options are licensed for weight management in the UK:
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide) — a once-weekly injection that works as a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist. Clinical trials showed participants lost an average of 15–21% of their body weight alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
- Wegovy (semaglutide) — a once-weekly GLP-1 injection licensed for weight management. In trials, participants lost approximately 14.9% of body weight on average.
- Saxenda (liraglutide) — a daily GLP-1 injection, another prescription option for eligible adults.
These medications may help reduce appetite, support feeling fuller after meals, and make it easier to maintain a reduced-calorie diet while following your workout program. Individual results vary significantly, and medication is always used alongside lifestyle changes, not as a replacement for them.
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 How to Find Out If You're Eligible
In the UK, prescription weight loss medications are available through two routes: NHS specialist weight management services and private prescribing. NHS eligibility typically requires a BMI of 30 or above, or 27–29.9 with weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnoea. However, NHS access varies significantly by region and waiting times can be lengthy.
To explore whether you're eligible, start a conversation with your GP about your weight management goals and fitness routine. They can assess your individual circumstances, discuss medication options, and refer you to specialist services if appropriate. You can also use our free BMI calculator above to check your current BMI and understand where you sit within NHS eligibility guidelines. For private prescribing, you can access assessment through an online consultation with a UK-licensed prescriber following your own timeline.
- 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 just a workout program and no medication?
Yes, many people lose weight through exercise and dietary changes alone. However, sustainable loss requires consistency and a calorie deficit of around 500 kcal per day for approximately 0.5 kg per week. For some, adding prescription medication makes adherence easier and results faster. Your GP can advise on what's right for you.
How does prescription weight loss medication complement a workout program?
GLP-1 and GIP/GLP-1 medications may reduce appetite and cravings, making it easier to stick to a calorie deficit while exercising. They don't replace fitness — they work alongside your workout routine and dietary changes to support better weight management and improved results.
What BMI do I need to be eligible for prescription weight loss medication in the UK?
NHS eligibility typically starts at BMI 30 or above, or 27–29.9 with weight-related health conditions. For adults of South Asian, Chinese, Black African, or Black Caribbean heritage, lower thresholds apply. Use our BMI calculator on this page to find your current BMI and discuss eligibility with your GP.
How long does it take to see results from a workout program combined with weight loss medication?
Results vary. Most people see initial changes within 4–8 weeks, though significant weight loss takes longer. Clinical trials typically measure results over 12–18 weeks. The best approach combines consistent exercise, dietary changes, and medication compliance for sustainable long-term results.
Should I speak to my GP before starting both a workout program and considering weight loss medication?
Yes. Your GP can assess your health, check your BMI, discuss medication options if eligible, and ensure your exercise plan is safe for you. This is especially important if you have existing health conditions. They can also refer you to specialist weight management services if needed.
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.