As you may have noticed from the title, this edition’s column is dedicated to animal lovers. While hopefully all of you realize how important your health is to living a happy and fulfilling life, many people overlook their pet’s health in the process. In reality, exercising with your pet not only keeps them in good health, it can be motivating for you as well. There have been times when I certainly didn’t feel like working out, but when I think about how unfair it is to my dog to neglect her health, I feel more motivated to do so. And since Bossy (my dog), has learned from past experience that putting on a shoe, getting a bike from the garage, or even walking in the general vicinity of an in-line skate may mean a workout for her (she’s spoiled), I am even more motivated to go even when I don’t feel like it.
There are a number of fantastic activities you can do with your dog around San Diego County. All you need to do is engage your imagination. Having your dog with you is like exercising with a partner—it’s motivating, stimulating, and fun! Dogs simply want to please you, so unlike a human being they rarely complain that the route is boring, they would rather be doing something else, or they have a headache. They simply want to be wherever you are. What more could you ask?
One of my favorite places to take Bossy is to Lake Murray, although any smooth track or sidewalk will do. We grab the in-line skates, her leash, a harness, a couple water bottles in a hip pack, and some sunglasses (for me, not Bossy), and away we go! My husband, Bossy and I just went there last Saturday and had a great time. Bossy was the talk of the lake!
Another thing I really like to do is go hiking with her. San Diego is full of fantastic trails and it is a shame not to get out there and enjoy the beautiful outdoors. Just make sure that the trail allows dogs, and bring plenty of water since sometimes you may be out there for hours and it can get pretty warm. We always put Bossy’s boots on if the terrain will be rough or hot. You can pick up a pair of “doggy hiking boots” at your local pet store that will prevent your pet from getting blisters on his/ her pads.
Another of my favorite activities is to take Bossy biking by tying her leash onto my street bike, as this allows her to gallop rather than trop, so she can stretch her legs. She absolutely loves it! There is even a special contraption I have seen at a trade show that is made specifically for attaching your dog to your bike. Your animal should be trained to heel so that he/ she will stay on one side of the bike and run in the appropriate position. Remain on a relatively flat surface when riding with your dog and don’t attempt to go off-road.
And of course there is the old standby of running with your pet. Again it makes things much easier if the dog is already trained to heel. A collar or harness will work fine depending on your preference, but if your dog pulls I would suggest a harness rather than a collar.
This year my husband and I plan to take our dog backpacking. She already has her own dog pack (believe it or not they actually sell them) so she can carry her own food and water. Every bit of space counts when backpacking. Those are some of the things we enjoy, but you can come up with your own activities. I think you will find that your animals love being with you outdoors, so get out there with them so you can both enjoy it!
To summarize:
• Use your imagination and get creative!
• Purchase the proper equipment
• Start your pet out slowly and get him/ her used to the activity
• Always prepare by bringing plenty of water
• Let your dog rest periodically and drink when thirsty
• Use good sense and know your dog’s limitations
• Enjoy yourselves!
Copyright © 2010 Optimum Condition. All rights reserved. Melissa Allen, CPT, BS, CES is a certified personal trainer, corrective exercise specialist and Medifast health coach, is the owner of the Optimum Condition Corrective Exercise & Performance Center, located in El Cajon, in the East County of San Diego. We specialize in customized fitness training & corrective exercise for both recreational athletes and post-rehab clients, as well as guaranteed weight loss programs or your money back. You can schedule a free consultation to help you get started. Please visit her website at OptimumCondition.org.
