Virgin Active Weight Management Support Programme (GLP-1)

Modified on Tue, 2 Dec at 11:40 AM

Purpose:

IN A WORLD WHERE WEIGHT-LOSS SOLUTIONS OFTEN PROMISE FAST RESUTS BUT LITTLE STAYING POWER, VIRGIN ACTIVE OFFERS SOMETHING DIFFERENT.

We combine clinically governed GLP-1 access with our proven social wellness club environment, expert coaching and social community - so that change isn’t just temporary, it gets real.

Myth Buster, FAQ

Myth / Misconception	Reality / Virgin Active Position
“Virgin Active is selling weight loss drugs.”	Virgin Active does not sell, recommend, provide, or prescribe medication. Prescriptions come only from Obilean (telehealth doctor service). Our role is to support members who are already on, or about to start, a medically supervised weight-management diagnosis and treatment
“This replaces exercise, nutrition, and coaching.”	Medication is never a replacement, for real change one must address health holistically. Virgin Active’s core role is to provide structured exercise, nutritional guidance, and habit-change support to help members succeed.
“GLP-1 guarantees quick weight loss.”	No. Medication alone is not a magic fix. Sustainable change requires exercise, nutrition, and behaviour support which is where Virgin Active plays a key role.
“This is a cosmetic programme.”	The programme is centred on holistic health: strength, mobility, metabolic wellness, confidence, and sustainable lifestyle change.
“This is unsafe or unregulated.”	All prescriptions follow medical eligibility criteria, clinical diagnosis, oversight, and regulated telehealth Dr processes. Virgin Active provides support after medically approved treatment has been prescribed by your doctor
“Virgin Active is pushing medication.”	Virgin Active does not initiate, promote or drive medicated weight-management. We simply provide the movement, nutrition, and behaviour support members need if they choose or require this path.

Q&A Virgin Active Weight Management Support Programme (GLP-1)

Q1: What is the Weight Management Support Programme?

A support ecosystem designed for members who are already on or are about to begin a medically supervised GLP-1 weight-management programme.
Virgin Active provides the exercise, movement, nutrition, habit-change, and lifestyle support that helps members achieve sustainable results.

Q2: Are we giving or prescribing medication?

No. We do not supply, promote or prescribe medication.
Only Obilean (telehealth dr) manage diagnosis, prescriptions and patient care
Virgin Active can assist members by enabling a seamless digital pathway to be connecting with an Obilean online doctor, and to support members with recommended exercise and nutrition while using a GLP1 treatment

Q3: Why is Virgin Active involved?

Because members using GLP-1 medication have significantly better long-term outcomes when they are supported with:

structured exercise
nutritional coaching
behaviour-change support
strength and mobility training
healthy routines
Virgin Active’s role is to support the wellness part of the journey, not the medical part.

Q4: Who can join?

Only members who have been medically approved and prescribed for weight loss medication by Obilean.
Others may still join the exercise + nutrition support without taking medication.

Q5: What exactly is Virgin Active’s role?

We support members through:
• Exercise programming & coaching
• Strength, mobility & functional training
• Nutrition guidance and healthier-habit support
• Progress tracking and accountability
• Community & social support

We support their health journey; we do not manage the medical journey.

Q6: What are we not doing?

Virgin Active is not:
• prescribing medication
• selling medication
• encouraging/promoting medication
• replacing club services
• providing medical advice

Q7: Why can’t everyone access medication?

Because GLP-1 medication requires strict medical screening, individual diagnosis and treatment as prescribed by a physician/dr
Virgin Active has no role in eligibility, this is fully handled by Obilean (telehealth Dr).

Q8: Does this replace working out?

Not at all. Sustainable weight management requires holistic treatment and support.
Exercise is essential for:
• maintaining muscle
• improving metabolism
• preventing weight regain
• boosting energy and function
Virgin Active ensures members have the right strength and mobility support throughout their journey.

Q9: Will this help members maintain results?

Yes, the combination of medication (if clinically appropriate) + exercise + nutrition + support significantly improves long-term success.

Q10: How much does it cost?

Medication costs are as per South African department of health published prices – Obilean may advise on specific cost
Club services (training, classes, coaching) are included in membership.
PT or specialist services may have additional cost if chosen by the member.

Q11: Is the programme safe?

Yes.
Only clinically and regulatory approved medication is used, and only under medical supervision. Obilean may advice on potential side effects and the safety of the medication.

Virgin Active then supports the physical activity and nutrition portion safely and responsibly.

Q12: Is Virgin Active promoting a quick fix?

No.
Our stance is clear: movement, nutrition, and behaviour change come first.
Medication is an optional medical tool not a shortcut Obesity is a chronic disease and hence may require medical treatment.

Q13: Is enough medication available in South Africa?

Yes.
Novo Nordisk manages national distribution of the medication. Sufficient stock is available.

Virgin Active does not manage or influence the supply chain.

Q14: How do we address stigma for members choosing medication?

By reinforcing that:
• Obesity is a recognised medical condition.
• Some members require medical intervention.
• Virgin Active is here to support, not judge.
We promote a culture of empathy, professionalism, and respect.

Q15: Why emphasise medically tested brands rather than cheaper alternatives?

Because only approved treatments ensure:
• clinically tested formulas
• correct dosage
• verified safety
• medical supervision
Unregulated alternatives can be unsafe, ineffective, and are illegal.

Member FAQ

Member Concern	Simple Answer	Key Supporting Point
Is this safe?	Yes. Medication is clinically prescribed by and with oversight from an Obilean treating dr	Virgin Active provides exercise & lifestyle support, not medical treatment.
Do I still need to exercise and follow nutrition plans?	Yes. Movement, nutrition, and coaching are essential.	Virgin Active’s role is to support your healthy habits.
Can anyone join the medication programme?	No. Only members that have consulted with an Obilean dr and approved members.	Eligibility is medical, not fitness related.
How much does it cost?	Medication costs are external; club support is part of membership.	VA does not price or sell medication.
Is this a quick fix?	No. Sustainable results depend on lifestyle and exercise.	Virgin Active helps build those long-term habits.
Is my health data safe?	Yes. VA does not access or store your medical data.	All medical info remains with Obilean.
What results can I expect?	Better energy, fitness, strength, mobility & body composition.	Best results combine medication + movement + nutrition.
I don’t want medication. Can I still join the programme?	Yes. You can access the exercise and nutrition support without medication.	Virgin Active supports all members, medication or not.