Tips for Getting Fit with Your Dog

Getting fit doesn’t mean you have to push through grueling workouts alone. With a canine companion at your side, staying in shape can be fun, and Fido can get fit too! Here are some tips to get you started:

Plyometrics & Steady Cardio 

Plyometrics is a fancy way of saying “using a lot of energy in a short amount of time.” Obviously, your pup can’t do some burpees with you (or who knows maybe they can), but any type of short interval workout that can get your heart rate up will do. These type of exercises help increase your speed and power for both you and Fido!

You can accomplish this through hill sprints, tossing a ball and both of you run to fetch it.

The opposite of these types of workouts would be a steady, moderate jog. You can take it slow because this is all about distance, not speed, building up you and your dog’s endurance. 

Warmup & Recovery 

Not every day should be high intensity, some days a pleasant stroll through the park will do. Even a light walk can raise your heart rate and body temperature. Everyone needs a rest day, but if you want to stay active even during recovery, a light walk is a way to go. You don’t want any injuries from pushing your body harder than it can handle. 

Walks are also great for your furry friend’s mental stimulation. They can sniff and engage with new sights and smells and even meet new faces (human and canine alike) along the way.

Cross-Training 

The best way to accomplish all we have covered is cross-training. Mixing different workouts together to create a dynamic week of activities will prevent both you and your pup from getting bored with the same old routine and give different parts of your body a break on a regular basis. 

Cool-Down & Rest 

Cooling down and getting enough rest is crucial in your workout regime. When you’re done with your daily exercise gradually bring back down your heart rate and body temperature with light activities. Taking the time to rest, both of your systems is essential in staying healthy and not having all that exercise be for nothing. 

And finally, getting enough sleep is SO important. Your body naturally produces hormones needed to repair your muscle tissue. A full 8 hours of sleep with your furry friend snuggled up next to you will do wonders for your active bodies trying to grow stronger.