Why your pooch is the best workout partner

Whether you have made a New Year’s resolution to exercise more, or you are simply wanting to stay fit, there’s no reason why your pooch cannot offer you the best support by becoming your workout partner. In fact, for many reasons, they are the best partner you can ask for! Not only will they keep up with you, but you won’t hear any complaints and they will be all the more appreciative of the time you have spent together bonding.

Here are some workout ideas to suit all levels of fitness.

Sounds like a no-brainer right? Walking shouldn’t be a chore or something you ‘have to do’ for your dog. Walking can be beneficial for your health as well as the health of your pooch by reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, ensuring good bone health, and is also a fantastic way to decrease stress levels.

Start with one walk a day and build this up to 2-3 walks with differing levels of intensity to get the blood pumping. Try taking different routes including uphill walks, and stairs.

If you want to kick it up a notch, or include variety between walks, try running. You can start off at a slow pace in short bursts, and build it up as you and your pooch become more confident.

Set a goal and try to beat it each week. For example, try jogging for 2 minutes at a time and gradually increase this over the course of a few weeks. Or, set a distance goal and work towards hitting it each fortnight (or whatever you are comfortable with).

If you really want to get the blood pumping, try setting up a cardio circuit. Here are a few exercises you can try at each stop:

-       Squats: each time you squat down, give your pooch a rub

-       Lunges: Do a lunge and each time you go down, tap your pooches paw or ask for a shake

-       Sit-ups: If your dog is small enough to place on your chest, use them as a weight and try doing sit-ups

-       Sprints: set up markers on each end and sprint with your dog, see who can get to the marker first.

If you are lucky enough to have a dog-friendly beach or lake nearby, try going for a swim with your greyhound. Swimming is an excellent low impact activity that's sure to get the blood pumping.

Before you plan your workout routine, ensure you fully understand your dog’s physical ability and keep in mind any injuries they may have that may be exacerbated by exercise. Above all, have fun and move at your own pace.