The 5 GLP-1 Clients You Will Guide (and the 2 You May Not… Yet)

Reviewed by Brian St. Pierre, MS, RD

“Is this medication going to replace my job?”

This was the worry for many health and fitness coaches when GLP-1 medications became widely accessible.

Even though semaglutide (Ozempic) launched in 2017, it initially felt like a theoretical worry. Prescription volumes were minimal, and few individuals knew anyone who was taking it.

Fast forward to 2026, and now more than 1 in 10 adults in the US are utilizing a GLP-1 medication. Most of us either know someone taking it or are using it ourselves.

As its application has expanded, views on the medication have evolved. Many coaches no longer see it as a danger but as a beneficial resource for certain clients, enhancing their coaching efforts.

Nevertheless, concerns continue, especially about the long-term wellness of clients on the medication. Issues such as muscle deterioration, dependence on a “band-aid” solution, and overlooking foundational health practices are notable.

Whether you are an advocate for or skeptical about GLP-1 usage, contemplate this viewpoint:

“As a coach, you’re not operating in the GLP-1 sphere; you’re in the GLP-1 support space.”

This observation from Kate Solovieva, Super Coach and PN’s Director of Community, highlights that coaches should concentrate on “individuals on GLP-1s who want support,” rather than solely those taking the medication.

It’s unrealistic to attempt to coach all individuals using GLP-1s, and fixating on those who misuse them is mostly unproductive. Some may not desire or require your guidance.

However, there is a section of GLP-1 users who are prepared, willing, and capable to accept your support. Focusing on this demographic is where you can truly create an impact and expand your business.

This article will examine seven distinct types of GLP-1 clients, each with different levels of coaching readiness. Utilizing our knowledge from over 175,000 clients (including a rising number on GLP-1s), we’ll outline strategies for each category.

Let’s begin.

The 7 categories of GLP-1 clients

A brief reminder: Individuals evolve, and readiness is not fixed.

A client who initially states “I’m okay on my own” might later express “I’m struggling and need assistance”—and vice versa.

When determining a client’s category, keep in mind it represents their current situation. Listen closely to their language during sessions and adjust as needed.

Generally, Coach Kate points out that individuals are ready for coaching when they show two main signs:

• Their challenge feels significant, pressing, or distressing: They recognize the need to enhance their health at this moment. (“This is important to me.”)
• They feel capable of investing resources to tackle the challenge: Whether it’s time, finances, or both, they are ready to commit. (“I have the ability to address this.”)

Keep this in mind as you interact with potential clients and as you review the client types outlined in the table below.