Understanding Hypermobility Its Impact on Women and the Benefits of Resistance Training

Hypermobility: Understanding Its Impact on Women and the Benefits of Resistance Training

Hypermobility is a term that is gaining visibility in health and fitness discussions, especially among women. This condition is characterised by an extraordinary range of motion in the joints, which can profoundly impact daily life. In this post, we will explain what hypermobility is, detail its specific effects on women, and highlight how resistance training can greatly benefit those experiencing it.

What is Hypermobility?

Hypermobility describes the ability of joints to move beyond the standard range of motion. While many view this flexibility as advantageous—particularly in fields like dance or gymnastics—it can also lead to joint instability, pain, and increased injury risk.

Genetics often play a significant role in hypermobility, with some people inheriting traits that contribute to more elastic connective tissues. Certain conditions, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), also cause hypermobility, impacting collagen production and leading to health complications.

Understanding hypermobility is essential, especially since research shows that approximately 60-80% of women are affected by it, compared to about 20-30% of men.

How Hypermobility Affects Women

Women are diagnosed with hypermobility syndromes far more frequently than men due to various physiological and hormonal reasons. For many, hypermobility is linked to chronic pain, fatigue, and musculoskeletal disorders.

Physical Symptoms

The physical symptoms of hypermobility can vary widely. While a few women might experience little to no issues, others may confront significant challenges. Common symptoms include:

• Joint pain or discomfort, particularly after physical activities, experienced by 70% of women with hypermobility.

• Fatigue and muscle weakness due to overexertion of the joints, leading many women to modify their everyday activities.

• Frequent sprains or strains, with studies indicating that hypermobile individuals have a 50% higher risk of joint injuries compared to non-hypermobile people.

  
  

These symptoms can intensify during hormonal changes, such as those during menstrual cycles or pregnancy, making effective management of hypermobility crucial for many women.

Emotional Impact

The emotional toll of living with hypermobility can be significant. Chronic pain and fatigue often lead to feelings of frustration and isolation, which can negatively impact mental health. The unpredictability of symptoms may hinder women’s participation in physical activities or social events, exacerbating emotional struggles. For instance, studies show that nearly 40% of women with hypermobility report symptoms of depression or anxiety.

The Role of Resistance Training

Resistance training, or strength training, can provide numerous benefits for women dealing with hypermobility. By strengthening the muscles that support hypermobile joints, women can enhance stability and reduce the risk of injury.

Building Strength and Stability

The primary aim of resistance training is to build muscular strength. This is especially vital for individuals with hypermobility since stronger and well-conditioned muscles help stabilise joints. Exercises focusing on strength—like squats, lunges, and push-ups—can significantly improve joint function.

For women with hypermobility, a carefully structured resistance training routine can teach better control of movements, enhancing both athletic performance and daily activities. Research indicates that women who engage in regular resistance training experience a 30% reduction in joint pain and discomfort over time.

Improving Proprioception

Proprioception, or the awareness of body position, can be impaired in those with hypermobility. Resistance training improves this awareness through exercises requiring balance and coordination.

Incorporating movements like squats, deadlifts, and single-leg exercises can aid women in developing a stronger sense of body positioning. Improved proprioception is crucial in preventing injuries and effectively managing pain associated with hypermobility.

Enhancing Flexibility

While hypermobile individuals typically possess excess flexibility, resistance training can help balance this by ensuring flexibility is supported by strength. Controlled strength training encourages the effective use of the range of motion without risking overextension.

Though flexibility remains important, adopting a cautious approach with resistance training can lead to smoother movements and a decreased likelihood of injuries. Studies suggest that women who combine strength training with flexibility exercises reduce their injury risk by up to 40%.

Safe Resistance Training Practices

For women with hypermobility, following specific safe resistance training practices is vital:

• Consult a Professional: Before starting any resistance training program, it is essential to consult a qualified healthcare provider or physical therapist familiar with hypermobility.

  
  

• Start Slowly: Begin with low resistance and gradually increase as muscle strength and comfort improve.

  
  

• Focus on Form: Proper technique should always take precedence over lifting heavier weights to avoid straining hypermobile joints.

  
  

• Incorporate Variety: Engage in a mix of free weights, resistance bands, and body-weight exercises. This variety keeps workouts interesting and adaptable.

  
  

• Listen to Your Body: Regularly assess how your body feels during and after workouts. Make necessary adjustments to avoid aggravating symptoms.

  
  

Embracing an Active Lifestyle

Hypermobility can dramatically affect women's quality of life, presenting both physical and emotional hurdles. However, resistance training offers clear benefits by enabling women to build strength, improve stability, and enhance overall well-being. By taking a cautious and informed approach to resistance training, those with hypermobility can lead active lives while minimising associated risks.

Prioritising strength training can result in significant physical and mental rewards for anyone managing the challenges of hypermobility.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding hypermobility is crucial for women who experience its effects. The condition can lead to various physical and emotional challenges, but resistance training can provide a pathway to improved health. By focusing on strength, stability, and proper training practices, women can better manage their symptoms and enhance their quality of life.

Close-up view of a barbell resting ready for strength training exercise.

References

• Beighton, P., et al. (1973). "Group study of hypermobility". British Journal of Rheumatology, 12(3), 150–155.

• Grahame, R. (2004). "Hypermobility and the Hypermobility Syndrome". The Musculoskeletal Journal of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, 34(3), 219-223.

• V. K. Yogev, et al. (2011). "The role of resistance training for people with joint hypermobility". Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 25(3), 898-903.

• Rombaut, L., et al. (2010). "Impact of hypermobility on physical and mental health". Clinical Rheumatology, 29(7), 671-678.