Ever try to find a workout partner that is always available the same time you are, doesn’t care if you only have time for a quick workout or complain if you are going to fast or slow? If you have a dog, your search for just that is over!
No matter what your age or ability, you can likely toss or kick a ball. Not only will your dog LOVE the attention, you’ll also get a full body workout that will stretch your muscles, get your heart rate up and give you little breaks between throwing.
You don’t even have to be ‘good’ at it, trust me, your dog won’t care. It’s all about getting up and moving! You’ll burn as few as 1 calorie per minute and as much as 200 calories in 30 minutes if you choose to ‘race your dog’ to the ball!
Every dog needs to go outside multiple times per day. Instead of letting the dog out their own, take your dog for walk, run, jog or hike. How many calories you’ll burn depends on your pace, body weight and length of time, but at a minimum you’ll triple your calorie burn compared to sitting on the couch!
Add even more to your workout by incorporating lunges, stairs, wrist/ankle weights.
If you and your dog want more adventurous activities, try swimming, hiking, paddle boarding, canoeing, roller blading, cycling or even snowshoeing. It may take some time to get your dog use to some of these, but dogs are highly trainable, making them the perfect partner to fit your exercise preferences.
Be sure to bring snacks and water for not only you, but also for your dog along with a collapsible container. Finally – have fun and get healthy with your best friend!
