50+ Pounds Down: How Jen Gained Muscle on a GLP-1

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure policy for more details.

Most GLP-1 success stories focus on the weight lost. Jen’s story is different. Yes, she’s down over 50 pounds —but perhaps even more impressive, she’s increased her muscle mass along the way. That’s no accident. Before ever starting a GLP-1, Jen spent years building healthy habits through Stay Fit Mom coaching. When she and her doctor decided a GLP-1 was the right next step, protein, strength training, hydration, and consistency remained the foundation. Her journey is proof that with the right plan, it’s possible to lose fat, build strength, and create results that last.

Tell us a little about yourself! We’d love to hear about your family, career, and what life looks like outside of your health journey.

Jen: I was born and raised in Michigan, and I’ve lived in Las Vegas since 2004 with my husband.  We enjoy our life together traveling, attending Vegas Golden Knights games, and taking care of our cars.  I graduated in 2010 as a healthcare professional from the University of Southern Nevada, and work in the local communities of the Las Vegas area.

How did you first find Stay Fit Mom, and what made you decide to start coaching?

Jen: I first learned about SFM on Facebook back in the day, I’m thinking 2016.  I first tried in 2017, but only for a few months.  I started coaching again in July 2023 and haven’t stopped since.  It was time to put myself and well being ahead of my career, especially after surviving COVID.  

Before starting your recent journey, what were your biggest struggles? 

Jen: My biggest struggle was the slow progress of counting macros.  I’m not someone that gives up easily, so the slow progress (weight loss, weekly pictures) sometimes felt like I was failing.  I just kept pushing forward and hoped for the best.

Your doctor recommended a GLP-1. What was your initial reaction? Did you have any hesitations or misconceptions before deciding to try it?

Jen: When the recommendation was first suggested, I must say I hesitated immediately.  Why change what was working?  I had struggled with weight gain and health issues after trying weight loss shots in the past.  I only knew the basics as they related to treating diabetes, so that prompted me to look into some clinical research data.  

How did coaching help you approach your GLP-1 differently? What habits did you and Stacy focus on to make sure you were building a healthy, sustainable lifestyle instead of relying solely on the medication?

Jen: Stacy was so supportive; she shared all the resources on starting a GLP-1.  Your podcast really helped me see the bigger picture.  We agreed that coaching was the foundation, and that we shouldn’t change anything.  I worked hard for over 2 years on the consistency of macros before this, and over 1 year on weekly workouts.  The GLP-1 was going to be another tool to push my results even farther.  Protein and fiber intake, hydration, and workout consistency were my daily go-do’s.  

You’ve lost nearly 40 pounds, but you’ve also built strength and maintained muscle. Why was that important to you, and what role did protein and strength training play in your success?

Jen: This was so important to me for two main reasons – to realize my lifelong goal of actually being strong, and to increase muscle mass during perimenopause.  In my success, these played the role of direct control – I can plan and execute: the amount of protein I consume, and how much time I spend lifting weights each week.  Over our last three years together, I learned many other factors were out of my control and negatively impacted my progress.  

 What changes have you noticed beyond the number on the scale? (Energy, confidence, mobility, health markers, clothing, mindset, daily life, etc.)

Jen: Changes – everything you listed!  All factors affected positively, especially confidence and daily life.  My outside confidence matches my inside confidence.  In my daily life, food noise is at an all time low and I look forward to weekly workouts.

What would you say to someone who is considering a GLP-1 but feels guilty, embarrassed, or unsure if it’s “the easy way out”?

Jen: First off, your feelings are valid!  Having dealt with past guilt and embarrassment, there can always be negative stigma when needing help to lose weight.  What you need to do is put your priorities in order, and see that your health should always be number one.  You cannot say no to something unless you’ve exhausted all your options, and know this isn’t ‘the easy way out.”  GLP-1s have existed for over 20 years – more people are taking them ever, and research is finding more health benefits on the regular.  Do it!

What would you say to someone who thinks they can take a GLP-1 without changing their nutrition or exercise habits?

Jen: I would say that isn’t the best way to honor your body.  A GLP-1 cannot and will not work for long term weight loss without changing your habits.  It doesn’t make sense to invest energy into something that won’t pay off in the end.  A GLP-1 will reset your brain and body to factory settings.  Change is necessary.

Looking back, what role did having a Stay Fit Mom coach play in your success? Do you think your results would have been different without the accountability and guidance?

Jen: SFM has been foundational in teaching me how to build and live a healthy, sustainable lifestyle.  Without the accountability and guidance I don’t think I’d be where I am today.  My GLP-1 results were only possible with all your support! 

What Coach Stacy has to say about working with Jen

Stacy: Jennifer is celebrating her 3 year macro anniversary this month!!! What an incredible journey it has been!!

She has a demanding job with long shifts and limited time off. Over the years, there were times she was incredibly consistent and seeing great results, and there were times life knocked her off track—but she always rebounded!! She never gave up on herself!!

About 9 months ago, she was debating whether to add a GLP-1 to her journey. I encouraged her to look at it as another tool in her toolbox—NOT the solution!! She still had to put in the work, and that she has! Day after day, she has shown up with a positive mindset, prioritizing protein, strength training, and habits that create lasting results!!

Today, she’s 50+ pounds down since joining Stay Fit Mom. Even more exciting, her body composition trends consistently show muscle increasing while body fat continues to decrease!

Her victories go far beyond the scale. She needs a new wardrobe because her clothes are too big, her rings no longer fit, and she even bought a sports car because she can now sit comfortably in it!! She’s also inspired her husband to begin his own healthier lifestyle and he got himself a matching sports car!

Her story is proof that you don’t have to be perfect—you just have to keep showing up!! She is such a joy to work with, and I couldn’t be prouder of her and all she’s accomplished!

Ready to write your own success story?

Jen’s story is a powerful reminder that lasting transformation isn’t about finding a magic solution—it’s about finding the right support and staying committed to the process. Whether you’re considering a GLP-1, feeling stuck after years of dieting, or simply looking for accountability to finally reach your goals, know that sustainable change is possible. Healthy habits will always be the foundation, and when you pair them with the right tools, incredible things can happen.

Whether you’re interested in one-on-one nutrition coaching, comprehensive bloodwork, or learning how to use a GLP-1 alongside healthy habits, our Stay Fit Mom coaches are here to help. We’ll meet you where you are, create a plan that fits your lifestyle, and give you the accountability and support you need to build results that last. Get started HERE.

You Might Also Like

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *