If you’re looking for exciting ways to get fit whilst spending time with your pet, continue reading to discover a few active activities which you’ll be able to enjoy with your pet!
Outdoor Fitness with Your Pets:
1. Trail running
Why not explore your local trails with your dog? As most medium to large sized dogs will have no difficulty running several miles with you. Just keep in mind that your dog may have to stop on the odd occasion in order to sniff a trail that they’re interested in.
2. Stand up paddle boarding
If you are lucky enough to live near a beach or lake, you may be tempted to train your dog to sit on a stand-up paddleboard. That way you’ll be able to explore waterways together, whilst you exercise. Stand up paddle boarding is an excellent exercise as you’ll strengthen your core muscles as well as tone your arms and legs. Just ensure that your dog is a confident swimmer before attempting to teach your dog to sit on a moving stand up paddleboard.
3. Geo-caching
What is geocaching? Geocaching involves using GPS coordinates to track down hidden treasure. Examples of areas which boast geo-caches include forests, beaches, and mountain tracks, although you may also be able to find geocaches hidden in your local park.
As geo-caches are found in almost every city in the world, you won’t have any trouble finding hundreds of geocaches to search for with your dog in your town or city! Just make sure to keep your eyes peeled as some geocaches are disguised as common items such as rocks, birdhouses and pine cones.
4. Cycling whilst your dog runs beside or ahead of your bike
If you want some company whilst you cycle, it’s well worth training your dog to run alongside you as you explore local cycle trails. Just be sure to avoid running on roads as you don’t want your dog to be hit by an oncoming car.
5. Frisbee
If you own a fitness track you may want to take your dog to your local dog park or to the beach where you’ll be able to play frisbee with your dog. If you’re wondering how you’ll be able to increase your current level of fitness by simply throwing a frisbee around, the answer is that you can train your dog to run away with your frisbee, so that you’ll have to run hard to retrieve your frisbee.
6. Hiking
If you prefer hiking and exploring steep trails which offer breathtaking scenic views, over running, it’s well worth getting into the healthy habit of taking your dog hiking with you. As your dog will be able to motivate you to keep walking up challenging hills which are bound to test your fitness level.
Just be sure to pack an extra bottle of water in your backpack for your dog as your dog is bound to get thirsty on your hikes together. If you’re keen also make sure to pack a dog treat for your dog, to ensure that their energy level remains high!
So if you’re looking for a trusty workout companion, there’s no need to look any further than your dog!
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