Skip to main content

Why Your Dog Is Your Perfect Workout Partner

By 04/11/2017March 16th, 2020Cardio, Family, Strength Training
dog fitness

Everyone knows working out with a partner offers numerous health benefits, like improved motivation and accountability. But nobody said that partner has to be human.

With it being National Pet Day, we thought we’d share with you a few fun ways to work out with your favorite canine.

BENEFITS OF EXERCISING WITH YOUR DOG

Dogs are considered “man’s best friend” for good reason. They’re always there for you, they don’t talk back, and they provide plenty of entertainment. So why not take your dog on your next sweat session?

Here are a few reasons to consider it.

  1. Dogs have endless energy. What better way to keep yourself going than by trying to maintain your canine friend’s pace?
  2. Dogs won’t interrupt your concentration with pointless chatter. Human company is great, but sometimes you just need a little silence.
  3. Dogs don’t judge. When you work out with a human partner, there’s always at least a small hint of worry that he or she thinks you run funny.

5 EXERCISES TO DO WITH YOUR DOG

Now that we’ve convinced you to take your dog along on your next exercise adventure, let’s talk about what you can do with your canine buddy in tow.

Just about any way you exercise outdoors is suitable for your dog, too, but here are some ideas to get you started.

  1. Hiking – Take your dog hiking for two reasons: for companionship and to keep you from getting lost.
  2. Biking – No, you may not be able to ride your dog around on your bike, but he can certainly run alongside while you cycle.
  3. Running – Like we mentioned above, dogs are relentless bundles of energy. When you feel like you can’t run or jog another step, your dog’s there to unsympathetically push you farther.
  4. Swimming – One awesome characteristic dogs have over cats? They love the water. If swimming is your thing, there’s no reason not to let your dog join in the fun. Maybe even see who’s faster.
  5. Yoga – It sounds silly, but dogs are pretty smart. If get into a yoga pose, your canine may just try and imitate you. There’s nothing quite like seeing an actual dog in the downward dog position.

Whatever your exercise preferences, you can’t go wrong by having your canine friend tag along. After all, sometimes a dog’s company is far better than the company of another person. They don’t offer your unsolicited advice, but they do offer unconditional love.

To learn more about making the most of your exercise routine, reach out to the friendly fitness pros at the Amarillo Town Club.