Echelon Pushes into GLP-1 Space with ActiveMD
From smart fitness equipment to the introduction of weight loss medication solutions, Echelon is embracing a new era in omnichannel fitness and wellness
Connected fitness leader Echelon has launched ActiveMD, a wellness division offering weight loss medication such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Rybelsus to qualified individuals and under medical supervision.
It’s a move that may not be surprising, considering the impact of blockbuster weight-loss drugs and the consumer shift toward longevity-supporting measures. However, it makes Echelon one of the first—if not the first—fitness equipment companies to roll out such a program.
“We are focused on integrating health care into our business so that we create a holistic approach to health and wellness, supporting customer needs throughout their journey,” Echelon CEO Lou Lentine said. “Weight loss has become a significant component to managing a person’s overall wellness. By combining GLP-1s, immune health regimen, and metabolism boosts with Echelon Fitness programs that focus on the individual’s goals, ActiveMD will help you lose unwanted weight and stay healthy without losing muscle mass.”
Existing Echelon members receive exclusive savings on weight-loss medications, while new customers gain a free one-year FitPass membership with their first prescription, providing unlimited access to thousands of live and on-demand workouts.
Dr. Tzvi Doron, a board-certified family physician and a diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine, noted that the obesity epidemic has reached “crisis levels,” with over 40% of the U.S. population having obesity and another 30% in the overweight category.
“We must use our position as industry leaders to provide solutions for those seeking help,” Dr. Doron said. “Pairing GLP-1 weight loss with resistance training can help maintain muscle mass and maximize health benefits. ActiveMD/Echelon Fit’s programs are the perfect complement to GLP-1s for those seeking to lose weight while maintaining muscle mass and strength.”
While Echelon’s new push into weight loss signals a new frontier, the company is still churning out compelling equipment. Echelon recently debuted Strength Home, a freestanding, connected, at-home strength training system that provides guided and customized workouts with easy-to-adjust resistance levels.
Echelon’s bold move may soon be mirrored by other fitness equipment brands. Already, industry leaders like luxury country club brand Life Time and boutique fitness franchisor Xponential Fitness have staked their claims in the wellness space with offerings like Miora and Lindora, respectively.
Courtney Rehfeldt has worked in the broadcasting media industry since 2007 and has freelanced since 2012. Her work has been featured in Age of Awareness, Times Beacon Record, The New York Times, and she has an upcoming piece in Slate. She studied yoga & meditation under Beryl Bender Birch at The Hard & The Soft Yoga Institute. She enjoys hiking, being outdoors, and is an avid reader. Courtney has a BA in Media & Communications studies.