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