imresize axes matlab GUI

AdjustedImage = imresize(handles.axes1,[ImageHeight,ImageWidth]);

I have a GUI, where the image is loaded in and displayed in an axis. I need to resize the image (handles.axes1) using the input arguments (ImageHeight,ImageWidth). The code prior to this point works without error. But when it gets to the code above, it gives this error:

Error using imresize Expected input number 1, A, to be one of these types:

numeric, logical

Instead its type was matlab.graphics.axis.Axes.

How would I be able to resize, using the input Height and Width?

Thanks.