Exercise Made Simple: Walk with Your Dog

When we plan our weight loss and exercise endeavors, we usually think about going to a gym, or going to boot camp or taking some sort of yoga class. We tend to overlook our devoted companion in life who can benefit from a good romp in the park, just like us: our dogs.

Exercising with your dog can start out with a warm up walk, but there are so many more things you can do than just make your way through a couple of blocks. Use your dog as inspiration for how you should look at nature and exercise: love it even if the sun isn’t shining; be forever curious; and run at will.

Hit Up the Playground

Playgrounds are a free gym for you to use. You can climb, push, pull and drag your way through any old playground equipment. You know who will be there right beside you? Your favorite canine companion. Even if the urge to go down the slide strikes you, most dogs will follow suit.

I like using the dog as a “guise” when using the playground. If you give the excuse, “We’re doing agility training!” no one will give you the raised eyebrow.

Go for a Hike

Most people tire of walking their dogs because, well, it’s always the same scene every day. Same houses, same parks, same people. Try mixing it up a bit by taking your dog and yourself on a wilderness hike, or find a local park that you have both yet to venture. Your dog will LOVE you for it.

Get Sporty

Did you know you could play most sports with your dog? From baseball, to basketball, to street hockey, soccer and Frisbee, your dog is usually an always-willing participant who will fetch, block, and rebound that ball for you. Though uhh, this may be a bit limited if your dog is a Chihuahua…

There are so many ways you can get out there with your best friend and get fit. So before you buy that costly gym membership, take a look at your favorite pooch and ask him if he has any better ideas. I bet he has a ton.

photo by Tim Rogers