Let’s face it. We only have so many hours in the day. Until we squeeze in a little bit of time for ourselves to workout we’re out of time. Dogs are unique in the pet world in that they require almost as much exercise everyday as humans do! They need exercise not just to promote physical well-being but also to encourage mental acuity as well. If you need to combine some activities why not find ways to work out with your dog! You can both get some much needed exercise and we all know working out with an adorable partner is more fun.
Ways to Work Out with Your Dog
Take a Walk
This should be almost like common sense. Dogs like to walk, humans need exercise, it all works out. What you might not know is that walking is a very effective exercise for humans. You don’t need to run (though you can do that too), in order to burn calories and build muscle. Walking also helps build strong bones. Your dog will love the chance to smell all kinds of new things and you will be getting in your daily steps. It is also a great chance to unwind and process events from the day. I find that walking with my dog gives me a chance to clear my mind and really think clearly. Maybe it’s the fresh air, maybe it’s the increased blood flow, either way it’s a big plus and calms me down!
Sprints
Dogs love to run fast. If you like to run this is a great opportunity for you to make a fun game out of your exercise routine. Set up some toys in the yard or dog park, use a pattern or a back and forth lineup, and take off! Your dog will have a blast racing you to the next toy or treat and you will both get your daily exercise in no time!
Water Sports
If you live somewhere near the water here are some great sports that can really help you get a good workout alongside your pup! Paddle boarding and kayaking are both great to do with dogs. They will have a blast jumping in and out of the water for a swim and you’ll get some great exercise while paddling you both along! If you don’t like the boat portion of those exercises consider swimming laps with your furry friend, although this may not work if you have a dog who does not like the water! For the water friendly crowd this is sure to become a favorite, an eager dog will be your new best trainer.
Bicycling
If you have a dog who has more than their fair share of energy you may want to try bicycling! Your dog will have the chance to really let loose and run while you get a different type of cardio workout! You will both win in the end because this type of workout gets your heart pumping in no time! This may take some training to get your dog used to the bicycle and routine so make sure you are steady and calm for the first few times to avoid injury to you or your dog!
Fetch
This one may seem odd; you might think the dog is the only one who gets any exercise here. Instead of the traditional method of fetch consider bringing out your exercise mat and getting in a high intensity circuit while your dog is fetching. Switch exercises each time your pup returns with their ball or Frisbee. You will also get some arm work in while throwing time and again for your dog!
No matter how you choose to workout with your dog remember that they are much like you; they will get tired, thirsty, and can easily overheat in high temperatures. Keep an eye on your workout buddy and only push as hard as you can both safely allow.
Have you ever done a workout with your dog?
Althea Thomas
Sunday 29th of January 2017
Looks like a lot of fun...
Mia
Sunday 1st of January 2017
Having a dog is certainly one of the best motivators to get outside and take a walk even when the weather doesn't cooperate.
Brandi Dawn
Tuesday 27th of December 2016
I wish I was a runner so I could keep up with my doggers when he goes the distance. We do a lot of hiking though and he always circles back around for me, hahaha.
Hannah C
Sunday 17th of April 2016
I like go to on walks with my dog. I want to start teaching her how to play fetch.
Bethany Cook
Tuesday 12th of April 2016
I love this, my kids and I right now always go for daily walks with our dog, and I really love these other ideas, cant wait to explore all the ways we can work out together.