Fitness & Fishnets

Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of yo-yo dieting? Have you ever wondered if the shame-based tactics of popular weight loss shows are truly effective?   In this episode, host Nikki Naab-Levy welcomes her colleagues Colette, Brooks, Greg, and Vanessa to deconstruct the myths and misinformation around fitness, nutrition, mindset, and weight loss. In this episode of Results Not Typical, they unpack the Netflix documentary Fit for TV, which examines the reality show The Biggest Loser.   In this episode, you will learn about: The difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation and how it relates to the long term success of the contestants on The Biggest Loser for maintaining weight loss.  The negative, long-term effects of using shame as a motivational tool. The importance of developing real-life skills for sustainable health. Why "The Biggest Loser" failed to provide genuine long-term solutions for its contestants.   This episode is about: Examining how shows like The Biggest L

Are you considering a hysterectomy, or struggling with your body image and fitness journey after surgery? In this episode of the Nikki Naab-Levy podcast, Results Not Typical, Nikki talks with physical therapist Dr. Jocelyn Wallace about a subject that is often underserved: pelvic health. You will learn about: Signs, symptoms, and the best treatment options for endometriosis Why a hysterectomy affects more than just one organ. The emotional and psychological challenges that can come with the surgery. The common advice patients receive and why it isn't enough. The importance of self-advocating with your surgeon, especially if you have symptomatic hypermobility. How to reconnect with your body and find a new fitness routine after a hysterectomy. Here are some key timestamps for this episode: 00:01:11 | Introduction to Dr. Jocelyn Wallace 00:01:46 | The problem with common post-hysterectomy recovery advice 00:03:07 | The impact of a hysterectomy on the entire system 0

In this episode, I’m joined by Melissa Cassera, a publicity strategist, screenwriter, and bestselling author who knows what it takes to make your work irresistible while still staying true to yourself. What makes Melissa’s perspective so valuable is that she’s spent nearly two decades helping entrepreneurs, authors, and creatives cut through the noise, build real connections, and keep their marketing from feeling “icky.” She also draws on her own experience as a multi-passionate business owner in screenwriting, publishing, and beyond, offering a rare inside look at what truly works. We talk about: How to make marketing feel authentic and aligned instead of forced or cringey. The best way to respond to haters, critics, and internet trolls (without losing your sanity). Why you don’t have to lock yourself into one tiny niche to be successful. How to redefine success on your own terms and celebrate your progress instead of waiting for a “big break.” Melissa’s journey is proof that you can market with in

In this episode, I’m joined by my client Carlyn Rubin, who shares her journey navigating fitness and nutrition with symptomatic hypermobility. What makes her story so powerful is that Carlyn came to me with a body composition and weight loss goal, but through strength training, she discovered so many unexpected benefits along the way. We talk about: How EDS and spinal fusion shaped Carlyn’s relationship with her body and movement. What surprised her most about strength training and how she built the confidence to walk into the gym and get started. Her experience with low-calorie diets, weight cycling, and what changed when we increased her calories and let go of rigid food rules What she wishes more hypermobile people knew about strength training Carlyn’s experience is a reminder that with the right approach, it’s not just possible to get stronger. It’s possible to feel better and more at home in your body while doing it. Links mentioned: Join my 6 week nutrition program Fat Loss Fundamentals. Grab the las

You had a plan to track your food, get your steps in, knock out two workouts. But then life happened, and you didn’t do any of it. Which would be fine except it keeps happening and you’re starting to feel stuck. In this episode, Nikki breaks down what’s actually going on when motivation disappears and how to follow through on the things you want to do, when you’re just not feeling it. Topics covered: The science of motivation. The different kinds of motivation and why it matters. 3 practical tools to generate motivation when we feel stuck or overwhelmed.  Additional Fitness & Nutrition resources Grab your free macros & calories calculator + guide Take a 1 minute quiz to get a free strength plan. Hop on my list to be notified when enrollment for the nutrition challenge starts. Stay in touch! Follow me on Instagram @naablevyfitness

In this episode of Results Not Typical, Nikki speaks with personal trainer and nutrition coach Sahara Coleman about the realities of living and training with symptomatic hypermobility. They explore how these conditions affect daily life, movement, identity and what it means to show up for yourself when your body doesn’t always cooperate. Topics covered: Training and daily life with hypermobility including chronic pain and injury Naviagting POTS and low blood pressure Hypermobolity comorbidities beyond the joints How identity, mindset, and autonomy play into managing chronic conditions Strength training and fitness with hypermobility Connect with Sahara Instagram: @saharathenutritioncoach Work with Sahara in person at BodySTRONG Burien Connect with Nikki Get your personalized free strength plan at freestrengthquiz.com Instagram: @naablevyfitness

In this episode, Nikki is joined by MNU Certified Nutritionists Vanessa Zingaro and Greg Sutton to break down why we struggle with consistency and what to do when knowledge isn't enough to move forward. You’ll learn: Why more information isn’t the solution to reaching your goals if you're struggling with consistency. How to identify and move beyond all-or-nothing thinking. What your internal dialogue has to do with your results How the Stages of Change explain why you keep "starting over" Practical tools to build follow-through (even on tough days) Connect with Greg & Vanessa Grab their 3 part mini series Stop Starting Over Follow Vanessa on Instagram @vanessa_zingaro_ Follow Greg on Instagram @coach.greg.sut Evolve to Excel Website Connect with Nikki Grab your free calories and macros calculator + guide Take the quiz to get free personalized strength workouts Connect with Nikki on Instagram @naablevyfitness

In this epside, Nikki is joined by yoga teacher and strength coach Laurel Beversdorf and physical therapist Dr. Sarah Court, DPT to deconstruct the myths around “good” muscles, “bad” muscles, and the idea that getting out of pain requires activating your muscles in a specific order. They cover: Why the “good muscle vs. bad muscle” narrative isn't an accurate or helpful depiction of how our bodies actually work and how it can lead to unnecessary fear or overcorrection in movement. The difference between muscle "timing" and motor control, and how these concepts show up in pain management, rehab, and strength training, especially when people assume certain muscles need to be "turned on" to fix dysfunction. How strength training improves coordination and load tolerance across movement patterns, often more effectively than trying to isolate or “activate” specific muscles. Why obsessing over alignment and activation can reinforce unhelpful perfectionism and interfere with developing actual strength, resilienc

In this episode, host Nikki chats with Dr. Shannon Connolly, chiropracter and women's strength and rehab coach about the the misleading world of celebrity fitness programs and marketing claims in the fitness and rehab space.  Topics discussed: Why “celebrity-approved” doesn’t mean evidence-based How to spot red flags in fitness marketing claims What progressive overload actually means proper strength training versus how it's misused in marketing The "initial gains" phenomenon and why everything works for beginners but not for long-term progress Why pain, progress, and training don’t always follow a straight line Connect with Shannon: Instagram: @livewellwithdrshannon Website: livewellwithdrshannon.com Connect with Nikki: Take 1 minute quiz and get your FREE personalized strength plan! Instagram: @naablevyfitness Articles referenced: Jennifer Aniston's P-Volv fitness regime article (AOL) Marie Claire article about Pilates for strength training

If you’ve ever been told that running is off-limits because you’re hypermobile, have POTS, or deal with chronic illness, you’re not alone. But is that true? Probably not. In this episode, Nikki chats with Dr. Kate Bochnewetch, physical therapist and running coach, to break down myths, the outdated advice, and a better way to approach running when you're dealing with these challenges. They cover: How POTS isn't caused by deconditioning and other myths around chronic illness, hypermobility, and running. The role of strength training in stability and how to build strength in a way that supports hypermobile joint Why building strength and tolerance may help more with injury mitigation that having "perfect" running form. How to navigate setbacks, flare-ups, and pacing when nothing feels linear. Links & Resources Connect with Dr. Kate Bochnewetch: Follow Dr. Kate on Instagram: @the_running_DPT Check out Kate's coaching & resources: www.therunningdpt.com Connect with Nikki Naab-Levy Get a

  Fat loss can be challenging in general, but it can feel more complex when you factor in chronic condition or symptomatic hypermobility. Fatigue, unpredictable symptoms, and flare-ups add challenges that most “fat loss plans” don’t address. In this episode, I cover strategie and considerations when pursuing fat loss with a chronic condition.  This episode covers:  Why fat loss is harder with chronic conditions How to know if you’re ready to pursue fat loss Things to be aware of during fat loss and common mistakes to avoid How to plan for success in a calorie deficit What we know about hypermobility / EDS and GLP-1 medications Key takeways: Fat loss with a chronic condition isn’t nessecarily off the table, but it may take a slightly different appraoch or require additional considerations. Links & Resources Article: The hidden riskes of Ozempic and Wegovy in Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Patients Grab my free practical guide to fat loss Join the interest list for my Black Friday Sale on nu

When it comes to fat loss, your mindset can be just as important as your strategy. If you’ve ever felt stuck, frustrated, or unsure why your efforts aren’t paying off, it might be time to take a closer look at your mental approach. In this episode, I’m breaking down the most common mindset mistakes I see that could be holding you back—and how to fix them. This episode covers: Why the scale isn’t the best measure of progress and how to interpret scale trends if you choose to use it as a tool. The importance of planning for invisible obstacles, like stress, rationalizations, or moments for when you don't feel like it. Why the type of motivation you have matters and how to make the process feel more worthwhile.  The importance of aligning your behaviors with your values. The problem with all or nothing thinking and how to increase cognitive flexibility. Resources Mentioned:

If you’ve ever felt like fat loss is more complicated than it should be, you’re not alone. The truth is that it's easy to get tripped up! Even when you feel like you're doing everything right. In this episode, I’m sharing 5 common mistakes I see with clients that might be slowing you down and ways to course correct for each of them. This episode covers: Why overly restrictive diets don’t work and how to create nutritions strategies you'll want to stick with. The importance of maintenance and how to reduce the odds of dieting burn out.  Why you don't want to go too aggressive in a defict and how to know if you're in the right deficit for your needs. Different methods of tracking and how you might want to use them. The difference between having structure versus food rules. Episode Takeaways: Fat loss doesn’t have to feel overwhelming when you have the right systems in place. Small, consistent actions are more effective than extreme efforts that aren’t sustainable. You can make progress while still

We’ve all had those weeks where things start out strong, but by midweek, life throws every curveball imaginable. In this episode, I share evidence based strategies to handle hard weeks without giving up on your goals. Topics covered: The difference between all-or-nothing thinking and flexible thinking. How aiming for maintenance can keep you moving forward with weight loss, nutrition, and fitness goals. The value of planning for obstacles and how to increase the odds of following through with the plan on bad days. When aiming for less might get you further ahead. Links mentioned: Click here to join the interest list to be first in line to get discounts on nutrition coaching during Black Friday! Waking Up Mediation App that I'm currently using. Connect with me: Click here to get a week of free customizable strength workouts + join my list for helpful nutrition and fitness content:  Follow me on instagram @naablevyfitness

In this episode, Nikki chats with Dr. Libby Hinsley about how to get started strength training with hypermobility if you have a history or fear of pain and injury. Topics covered Essential strategies for starting strength training safely if you're frequently battling pain, fatigue, or post-exercise flare-ups. Common misconceptions about alignment and its role in safety and injury prevention for hypermobile individuals. Why a gradual approach to increasing load and challenge is more effective than trying to push past your individual level of tolerance How strength training can reduce pain and expand your movement options if it's applied with considerations for hypermobility Practical advice on dealing with flare-ups, with a focus on understanding the interplay between the nervous system, pain, and strength training. Connect with Libby Instagram: @libbyhinsleypt Podcast: Zebra Talks Website: libbyhinsley.com Connect with Nikki Get a week of free customizable strength workouts Instagram: @naablevyfitness

In this episode, Nikki chats with Dr. Mike T. Nelson to explore the intersection of heart rate variability (HRV) and navigating dysautonomia exercise intolerance.  Topics covered: Understanding HRV: Learn what heart rate variability is and how it can gauge your readiness to exercise and your recovery capacity. Wearable Tech Insights: Delve into how devices like the Garmin and Oura Ring measure HRV and their roles in health tracking. HRV for Dysautonomia & POTS: Discover how HRV can be a game-changer for those with chronic conditions when navigating exercise and flare-ups Establishing Exercise Baselines: Strategies for building exercise tolerance and resilience in the face of chronic conditions. Managing Flare-Ups: Practical tips on using HRV data to navigate through flare-ups more effectively. Improving HRV: Explore methods to improve your HRV, including cardio protocols and lifestyle changes that make a difference. Links mentioned: Dr. Mike's Website: https://miketnelson.com/ Dr. Mike's HRV Education C

This episode deep dives into the world of hypermobility with physical therapist Dr. Melissa Koehl. During this episode, Nikki and Melissa discuss navigating pain, exercise, and the healthcare system as a hypermobile human. Topics covered: The complex reasons why hypermobile humans often deal with joint pain, soreness and fatigue. Strength versus stability and the value in cultivating both Strategies for physical therapy and exercise to build strength and stability with fewer pain flares. How to measure progress when you’re hypermobile and why "pain-free" might not be the best short-term goal. The importance of addressing comorbidities beyond joint pain and how to self advocate in a healthcare setting.  Connect with Melissa Visit Melissa’s website to learn more about her classes and offerings. Learn more about Melissa’s course Navigating Healthcare as a Hypermobile Human Follow Melissa on Instagram @dr.melissakoehl.pt  Connect with Nikki Grab your week of free customizable strength workou

In this episode, Nikki chats with Travis Pollen, PhD Health & Rehabilitation Sciences about how to critically assess scientific and research claims in the social media and online space. They discuss: The limitations of research and how it doesn't always hold up when applied to real life The problem is cherry picking or only selecting a single study to site on why you are doing something rather than considering the larger body of evidence and how this can lead to misleading claims Why you can't believe everything you hear in the media or on Instagram, even when it comes from an authority  Why most health and fitness advice is really boring and if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is Resources mentioned: Research review for health and fitness professionals and teachers: physio-network.com Resource improving communication skills between health / movement professionals and clients: The Level Up Initiative  To connect with Travis, visit travispollen.com or follow him @fitness_pollenator on In

In this episode, Nikki chats with crainosacral therapist Robyn Scherr about her lived and professional experience navigating fitness in a hypermobile body.  They discuss: Common misconceptions around hypermobility, exercise, and injury Why doing less when starting a new exercise program will often get you better results How stress affects exercise tolerance and recovery  Strategies that Robyn has used to get stronger with fewer flare-ups Their personal experiences navigating flare-ups and bad body days Connect with Nikki on Instagram @naablevyfitness Join Nikki's list for more hypermobility resources!

In this episode of Nikki interviews her friend Rachel Zwass about her journey into strength training and some of the surprising insights Rachel has gained since she started in February of 2023.  They discuss: Rachel's initial apprehensions about starting and perceptions of strength training as boring How Rachel progressed from lighter weights to more challenging weights and exercises The physical benefits and increased functionality that Rachel experienced as a result of strength training and how it helped her recover more quickly from injury The difference between following a PDF strength program versus an app based strength program What to expect in terms of soreness when you're new to strength training Links mentioned: CLICK HERE or visit gettotalpackage.com to learn more about the Total Package Strength app based program and enroll.