Finding Your Body's True Strength with Drew Ricciardi of The Monkey Body

When conventional workouts leave hypermobile bodies feeling weaker, not stronger, Drew Ricciardi's personal journey led him to The Monkey Body Method—a holistic approach that honors the unique needs of EDS bodies.

Who This Episode Is For

• You've been told to "just strengthen," but you still feel unstable or hurt.

• Traditional gym routines make hypermobility symptoms worse.

• You want movement practices that work with your body's flexibility, not against it.

• You're curious about how nervous system regulation influences physical stability.

• You're seeking hope and tools to help your body feel genuinely strong and supported.

In This Conversation

The Monkey Body Method

Drew shares how he built a movement system from scratch, blending therapeutic strategies tailored to hypermobile bodies—no one-size-fits-all exercises here.

Variable Resistance Training

Discover why variable resistance is a game-changer for preventing joint overload and cultivating real, sustainable strength for EDS warriors.

Nervous System + Movement

Explore the often-overlooked link between nervous system regulation and stability, and learn techniques to down-regulate for safer, more effective practice.

Beyond Movement: Holistic Support

Nutrition, environment, and somatic awareness: how each element plays a pivotal role in creating a stable, resilient body.

The Power of Lived Experience

Drew's own hypermobility story fuels every facet of his method—because sometimes the deepest expertise comes from firsthand experience.

Don't Miss These Moments

• 02:54 – Drew's Story: "I had to figure out what my body actually needed, not what textbooks said."

• 11:16 – Variable Resistance Breakthrough: Why it shields joints and builds strength where it matters.

• 21:19 – Nervous System Stability: Linking emotional safety to physical integrity—rethink "core strength."

• 35:14 – Hypermobile Real Talk: Navigating the day-to-day challenges and victories.

• 45:32 – Dynamic Safety: Designing movement experiences that cultivate true confidence in your body.

Standout Quotes

"Nutrition plays a crucial role in recovery."
"Community support enhances the healing journey."
"Innovation happens when we stop accepting 'this is just how it is' and start asking, 'What if there's a better way?'"

Resources & Next Steps

Connect with Drew & The Monkey Body

• The Monkey Body

• IG @themonkeybody

• Youtube @themonkeybody

Topics Covered

• Somatic movement in trauma recovery

• Incremental progression for chronic conditions

• Safe cardiovascular training for EDS

Stay Connected Subscribe to Empowered EDS on your favorite podcast platform, and join our thriving community redefining strength for hypermobile bodies.

Episode Timeline

Timestamp	Topic
00:00	Intro to The Monkey Body approach
02:54	Drew's hypermobility journey
05:01	Incremental movement: why it matters
07:11	Safe cardiovascular endurance
11:16	Variable resistance training
17:12	Dynamic vs. rigid stability
21:19	Nervous system's role in stability
28:06	Self-care as healthcare
35:14	Working with hypermobile bodies
38:15	Active body awareness practices
41:53	Integrating somatic approaches
45:32	Creating safety through movement

Keywords for EDS Warriors

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome • hypermobility • therapeutic movement • somatic therapy • nervous system regulation • dynamic stability • variable resistance • trauma-informed practice

A Note from Your Hosts

Every conversation reminds us of our mission: to offer movement that feels empowering, never depleting. Whether you're new to therapeutic movement or searching for fresh strategies, Drew's lived experience and innovative method bring hope that your body can feel supported and strong.

Remember: you're not broken—you just need approaches built for your body.

Lauren, Jason & the Connective Wellness Team
Have thoughts or questions? We'd love to hear how Drew's insights resonate with your journey—reach out anytime!