ukactive and CIMSPA have today (28 March) published guidance to support the sport and physical activity sector in its understanding of the use of weight management medications within the market.
The guidance forms part of the organisations’ commitment to develop tailored guidance for facility operators, giving them the confidence to welcome and support members taking weight-loss medications safely.
It also provides the sector’s workforce with training and guidance opportunities to help empower them to support members and visitors who are taking weight management medications.
Titled, ‘Guidance for sport and physical activity on understanding the use of weight management medications’,this resource is designed to support best practice and to help foster collaboration with healthcare providers to deliver holistic and sustainable health improvements.
The guidance includes sections on understanding weight management medication, key areas of knowledge for the sector’s workforce, practical and ethical considerations, and advice for educational partners.
It provides guidance on signposting to accredited healthcare professionals, who decide exactly what is most appropriate for an individual to take, in discussion with patients, and considering relevant clinical guidance.
The document has been informed by evidence-based research and consultation with healthcare experts and professionals from the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP), Bodyline Medical Wellness Clinics and All About Obesity.
ukactive and CIMSPA will continue to work closely with experts to monitor the roll out and impact of weight-loss medications and the operational implications for the sector.
Kenny Butler, Strategic Lead, Health & Wellbeing at ukactive, said: “The physical activity sector is vital in supporting weight management services, ensuring people living with obesity experience the full physical and mental benefits of being active through safe, community spaces and a supportive workforce.
“Like any chronic, long-term condition, managing obesity can be complex, so this guidance will help operators of gyms, pools and leisure centres to support people using weight-loss drugs, which will only be successful if they are utilised in a holistic and sustainable way, supported by physical activity.”
Natasha Eason, Associate Director for the Training Academy at CIMSPA, said: “With the ever-increasing profile and prevalence of weight management medications in the UK, it’s imperative for the sector’s workforce to be equipped with the knowledge to best support clients who may be using, or considering using, these medications.
“We would encourage all professionals in the sport and physical activity sector to make use of this resource, which will assist them in continuing to deliver high quality, client and participant-centred support.”
ukactive and CIMSPA will continue to work with the Government, NHS, and other agencies on the development of a full prevention strategy with physical activity at its core.
The plans also include the development of workforce training to empower exercise professionals to support users of the emerging weight management medications.
To access ‘Guidance for sport and physical activity on understanding the use of Weight Management Medications’, click here.
