Heavy Lifting and Hypermobility with Nikki Naab-Levy

In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley welcomes Nikki Naab-Levy, a certified strength and nutrition coach with extensive experience in helping hypermobile individuals.

Nikki shares her personal journey with hypermobility and discusses the benefits of strength training for those with hypermobility syndromes. They explore the importance of understanding one's limits, the concept of rate of perceived exertion (RPE), and how to adjust training programs appropriately. The conversation also touches on the significance of proper nutrition and body autonomy. Listeners are provided with practical advice on how to approach strength training safely and effectively, even when dealing with chronic conditions.

Highlights of this episode include:

00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks

00:35 Meet Nikki Naab-Levy

01:29 Nikki's Personal Journey with Hypermobility

04:16 The Benefits of Strength Training for Hypermobile People

04:40 Understanding 'Heavy' in Strength Training

06:43 Approach to Strength Training for Hypermobile Individuals

15:53 Progressing in Strength Training

23:52 The Importance of Deloading

25:11 The Importance of Deload Weeks

25:45 Listening to Your Body's Cues

27:52 Adjusting Workouts for Hypermobility

31:39 Indicators for Slowing Down

32:13 Mental Strategies for Setbacks

37:11 Nutrition and Recovery for Hypermobility

40:30 The Role of Alignment and Load

46:41 Final Thoughts on Body Autonomy

48:32 Where to Find More Information