Ep 177: Hypermobility, Proprioception And Building Up A Bendy Body

We discuss movement for the bendy body with guest Dr Libby Hinsley, a doctor of physical therapy specializing in the treatment of hypermobility syndromes and chronic pain. Libby shares her personal and professional journey with hypermobility explaining what hypermobility is and the associated symptoms. Libby, Katy and Jeannette discuss the paradox that bendy bodies have large ranges of motion yet tense muscles and how a sedentary lifestyle is even more of a liability for people with hypermobility syndromes. Libby and Katy outline the ABCs of a movement program for bendy bodies that often struggle with proprioception and are easily fatigued. They emphasize the importance of higher load activities performed with very mindful attention to exercise form. They caution that smaller and slower movements are key whatever the exercise modality. Also in this episode, Katy has a conversation with Sohail Shariff of Movemate, creator of segmented active standing boards designed to be used while you work. Sohail explains the personal stories behind the product and its design. Katy shares her appreciation of the boards particularly how  these boards foster dynamic movement of the foot and ankle, something missing with traditional balance boards. Sohail and Katy also discuss the board's segmented design; the multiple articulations create a flowing but stable motion which means Katy can move and focus on work at the same time. Finally they discuss the value of the board in the therapeutic space particularly for those with a need for movement that soothes the nervous system.  Enhanced Show Notes & Full Transcript Chapters:00:04:45 - Dynamic Collective 00:06:15 - Introducing Libby Hinsley 00:10:30 - Hypermobility - Definition and Explanation 00:14:40 - Symptoms 00:23:35 - Exercise and muscle use in the floppy body 00:29:30 - A Movement Diet for the bendy body 00:41:30 - Listener Question brought to you by Peluva 00:55:35 - Interview with Sohail Shariff of Movemate Books Mentioned:Yoga for Bendy People: Optimizing the Benefits of Yoga for Hypermobility by Libby Hinsley I Know I Should Exercise, But... by Diana Hill & Katy Bowman Connect, Move & LearnJoin Our Newsletter: Movement Colored GlassesTry Katy's Virtual Studio Free for 7 days!Made Possible by Our Dynamic Collective of Wonderful Sponsors:Smart Playrooms, design and products to keep you and your kids engaged and active at homeMovemate, dynamic active standing boards that invite movement and play into your workday, without disrupting your workflowCorrect Toes, soft silicone toe spacers that can be worn barefoot or in shoesPeluva, Five-toe minimalist sports shoes ideal for higher impact activitiesVenn Design, beautiful floor cushions and ball seats that keep you moving at home or at the officeWildling, minimal footwear for toddlers, kids and adults made from natural materials.  Thoughts/questions email us at [email protected] Voice on the Podcast: Read The Credits  October Retreats 2026