The Hybrid Lab with Dr. Alyssa Olenick

EP 112: What It’s Like to Be an Athlete With Hypermobility

The Hybrid Lab with Dr. Alyssa Olenick

Show Notes

In this video, I’m sharing my experience living and training with hypermobility spectrum disorder — something I’ve dealt with my entire life, but don’t talk about often. Many people are surprised to learn that I struggle with hypermobility, especially because of how active I am and the things I train for. The truth is, it’s something I manage every single day behind the scenes.

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Hypermobility affects connective tissue throughout the body, and for me that has meant chronic aches and pains, recurring soft tissue injuries, nerve pain, and a long history of setbacks related to running and lifting. It’s also meant learning how to train differently — not harder, not recklessly, but more intentionally.

In this video, I talk about:

1. what hypermobility spectrum disorder is

2. how it’s shown up for me throughout my life

3. the injuries and challenges I’ve faced

4. why strength training became non-negotiable for me

5. how I manage volume, intensity, and recovery

6. what’s helped me stay active without breaking down

This is not medical advice, and my experience may not be yours. Hypermobility exists on a spectrum, and everyone’s situation is different. My goal here isn’t to compare or minimize anyone else’s experience — it’s simply to share mine for those who are curious, struggling, or navigating something similar.

I was told many times that my body wasn’t built for sports, running, or lifting. I didn’t accept that answer — but I also had to learn how to respect my body, work within my limits, and be patient in ways I didn’t always want to be.

If you’re dealing with chronic pain, hypermobility, or any condition that makes training feel complicated, I hope this reminds you that progress doesn’t have to look one specific way — and that adapting doesn’t mean giving up.

If you have non-medical questions or just want to share your experience, feel free to leave a comment below. And as always, if you think you may be dealing with something similar, please talk to a qualified healthcare professional.

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