How exercise consistently with hypermobility or pain with Carissa Stewart

In this episode, Nikki is joined by nutrition and fitness coach Carissa Stewart to talk about why exercising consistently is hard, especially when you're hypermobile, chronically ill or have a complicated body.     Topics covered: Why motivation matters, how chronic pain can reinforce the tendency to avoid exercise, and what you can do about it. Why treating exercise like a habit can set us up to struggle MORE with consistency and what to do instead. How flare plans and exercise substitutions help you continue to move forward if you experience body challenges.  How to adapt your workout with less mind drama when you experience pain, injury, or flare-ups. How to measure progress if you're hypermobile or chronically ill beyond weight lifted, sets, and reps.    Connect with Carissa Stewart Instagram: @carissaleighcoaching Connect with Nikki Naab-Levy Instagram: @naablevyfitness Website: naablevy.com Get your FREE personalized strength plan: https://naablevy.com/find-your-perfect-strength-plan-quiz/ Get your free macros and calories calculator + guide: https://naablevy.com/macro-guide/ Episode Timestamps: 03:26 | Extrinsic vs. intrinsic motivation and why "you just need discipline" is wrong 06:02 | Why motivation more complicated when exercise causes pain and symptoms 12:56 | Why exercise isn't a habit (and what it actually is) 15:01 | Why exercise may take additional mental effort if you're neurodivergent 17:08 | Using backup plans and exercise substitutions, so a flare-up doesn't derail your workout 24:52 | How to adapt your workout when your body isn't cooperating without the mental spiral 32:20 | How to measure progress when you have a complicated body 44:04 | How to ask for help after bad experiences and set expectations with friends and family