Strength Training on GLP-1 Medications and Peptide Therapy in Chardon, OH
Lose the weight. Keep your muscle.
You started a GLP-1 medication like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, or Zepbound, or you're working with a provider on peptide or hormone therapy. The scale is moving, but you feel weaker, more tired, or less steady. You want to look and feel strong, not just smaller.
You deserve a plan that protects your muscle, your joints, and your long-term health.
We know how frustrating this is
Most of our clients come to us after other treatments didn't work. We know how discouraging it is to hurt, feel stuck, and not know who to trust. That's why the Doctors of Physical Therapy at Chardon Performance Therapy start by listening, until we understand your story and your goals.
We've helped thousands of active people regain confidence, strength, and control, even after other treatments didn't work.
What we help with
Strength training while on a GLP-1 medication
Protecting muscle during weight loss
Joint pain that makes exercise hard
Starting to exercise safely after years away
Balance and energy for daily life
Working alongside your hormone or peptide therapy provider
How it works
1. Share your story. Your initial assessment is a 75-minute, one-on-one visit with a Doctor of Physical Therapy. We listen to your goals, your history, and what you've already tried, so we understand what truly matters to you.
2. Get a comprehensive care plan. We test your strength, power, and balance with VALD force plates and dynamometry, so you see your starting numbers and track them as the weight comes off.
3. Work with an accountable guide. Your follow-up sessions are a full hour, one-on-one. We build a progressive strength program around your medication, your energy, and your goals.
Our three-phase approach
1. Pain management. We calm any joint or back pain that's keeping you from exercise.
2. We move you. We guide you through safe movement and teach you how to train.
3. You move you. You build strength with a progressive program, so the weight you lose is fat, not muscle.
What the research says
Studies show that 25% to 40% of the weight people lose on GLP-1 medications can come from lean mass, including muscle. Experts recommend progressive resistance training to protect it (ACE).
Your medical provider prescribes and manages your medication or peptide therapy. We don't prescribe or sell medications or peptides. Our job is to make sure the body underneath gets stronger.
What our clients say
"As someone just getting back into working out after years of living a sedentary life, it's a real comfort to know Dave won't let me hurt myself. It helps me push and get more out of each session."
Patrick B. ★★★★★
"I needed a professional to give me homework. There is no magic pill… Partnering with them for my overall physical wellness was one of the best investments I've made for longevity."
Josh B. ★★★★★
"Dave Nelson is a very knowledgeable therapist who has done a great job of crafting a plan for me that has been helpful in alleviating pain while developing some specific exercises that address my ongoing fitness program."
Walter S. ★★★★★
Rated 5.0 stars from 253 Google reviews.
Don't stay stuck
If you lose weight without strength training, you can lose muscle you'll need for decades. Let's protect it now.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a doctor's referral for physical therapy in Ohio?
No. Ohio law lets you see a physical therapist directly, without a referral.
How long are the sessions?
Your initial assessment is 75 minutes. Follow-up sessions are 60 minutes, always one-on-one with a Doctor of Physical Therapy.
Do you take insurance?
We're out of network with all insurance companies. We accept HSA and FSA cards, and many clients are reimbursed through their out-of-network benefits. We'll walk you through your options on a quick call.
Do you prescribe GLP-1 medications or peptides?
No. Physical therapists don't prescribe medications. We work alongside your medical provider and focus on strength, movement, and recovery.
Do you work with peptide and hormone therapy providers?
Yes. We're happy to coordinate with your provider. Listen to our podcast episode on peptides with Kelly Parker, NP, owner of Functional Health Warriors, with offices in Chardon and Mentor serving the greater Cleveland area.
How often should I strength train on a GLP-1?
Most people do well with two or three strength sessions a week. We'll build a plan that fits your energy and schedule.
When should I see a doctor instead?
Call your prescribing provider for severe stomach pain, ongoing vomiting, dizziness or fainting, or signs of dehydration.
More from our clinic: You're Capable of More Than You Think (video) · Bulgarian Split Squat for Single-Leg Strength (video) · Using Data to Guide Physical Therapy (video)
Serving Chardon and Northeast Ohio
Our clinic is at 520 5th Ave in downtown Chardon. Clients come to us from Chesterland, Mentor, Painesville, Perry, Eastlake, Willoughby, Pepper Pike, Cleveland Heights, and across Geauga and Lake County.