If you’re looking to get more active and improve your fitness, why not bring your furry friend along for the journey? Pets, especially dogs, can be wonderful workout partners, helping you stay motivated and turning exercise into a fun, shared experience. Incorporating your pet into your fitness routine can benefit both of you, physically and mentally. Here’s how to make your pet a part of your fitness lifestyle.
1. Start With Daily Walks or Runs
Walking is one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep both you and your dog active. A daily walk is not only great for your dog’s physical health but also helps with mental stimulation. It gives them a chance to explore, sniff, and engage with the world around them, while you get your steps in.
If you’re a runner, your dog can be your perfect running buddy. Start slow, especially if your dog is not used to running long distances. Gradually increase the length and speed of your runs to ensure they’re comfortable. Breeds like Border Collies, Labradors, and Vizslas tend to excel at running, but always consider your dog’s age, size, and health before hitting the pavement.
2. Incorporate Fetch or Tug-of-War into Interval Training
Turn playtime into a workout by incorporating games like fetch or tug-of-war into your routine. For instance, while playing fetch with your dog, you can add intervals of bodyweight exercises such as squats, lunges, or push-ups while they run to retrieve the ball. Each time they bring it back, you can perform a set of reps before throwing the ball again.
This form of interval training keeps you active while your dog gets the exercise they need. Plus, the playful interaction strengthens your bond and makes the workout more enjoyable.
3. Try Pet-Friendly Yoga (Doga)
Yes, yoga with your dog—often called “doga”—is a thing! Doga combines gentle stretching for you and your dog, allowing both of you to relax, bond, and strengthen your muscles. You can guide your dog into light poses or simply have them by your side as you flow through your yoga practice. Cats, too, often enjoy curling up nearby while you stretch, providing a calming presence.
Practicing yoga with your pet is a great way to build mindfulness while giving both of you some time to unwind and stretch out sore muscles.
4. Explore Hiking Trails Together
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, hiking with your dog is a great way to boost your fitness routine. Hiking provides a full-body workout for both you and your pet, engaging different muscle groups and promoting cardiovascular health. Many dogs love the adventure of a new trail, and you’ll both enjoy the fresh air and scenery.
Before heading out, make sure your dog is physically fit for hiking and that the trail is dog-friendly. Bring plenty of water for both of you, and consider booties to protect your dog’s paws if the terrain is rough or hot.
5. Engage in Pet-Friendly Strength Workouts
You can easily incorporate your pet into bodyweight strength exercises. For small dogs or cats, hold them as you perform squats or lunges to add resistance to your workout. Larger dogs can be motivation for you to do exercises like planks—challenge yourself by holding the plank while your dog sniffs around or lies next to you.
Even simply lying on the floor and doing core exercises while your pet is nearby can be a fun way to engage with them while you work on strengthening your body.
6. Play in the Yard or Park
If you have a backyard or access to a local dog park, use it as your outdoor gym. Engage in agility training with your dog by setting up simple obstacles like cones or hoops, or have them chase you as you sprint across the yard. Tug-of-war, frisbee, or even simple games like “follow the leader” can become part of a dynamic workout for both you and your pet.
This type of playful, outdoor exercise can keep you both active and engaged without feeling like a formal workout. Plus, it’s an excellent way for your dog to burn off energy and stay healthy.
7. Swim Together
If your dog loves water, swimming can be a fantastic low-impact workout for both of you. Many breeds are natural swimmers, and it’s a great way to help dogs with joint issues or arthritis stay active without putting stress on their bodies. Find a dog-friendly beach or pool and dive in together for some fun water play.
Swimming is excellent cardio and strength training, making it a full-body workout for you and a refreshing, energy-burning activity for your dog.
8. Biking or Rollerblading with Your Dog
For dogs with high energy levels, consider taking them along while you bike or rollerblade. This allows them to run at a faster pace while you ride alongside. Make sure your dog is comfortable with the speed and distance, and always keep them on a secure leash to ensure their safety. This can be a great way to get both of you moving in a high-energy, outdoor setting.
9. Join a Dog-Friendly Workout Class
Many cities now offer dog-friendly workout classes, including boot camps and group runs where pets are welcome. These classes are designed for both you and your dog to stay active together, often incorporating exercises that engage both pet and owner. Check out local offerings to see if there’s a class you can join with your furry workout buddy.
10. Pet-Focused Dance Workouts
For a fun twist on fitness, try incorporating dance with your pet. Some pets, especially dogs, love moving around with their owners. Turn up some music and dance around with your dog, adding movements like spins, jumps, or footwork that get both of you grooving. It’s a playful and energizing way to exercise together.
11. Training Sessions as Exercise
Training your pet can double as a workout for both of you. Practice agility exercises or obedience training where your pet runs, jumps, or fetches, and incorporate movements for yourself, such as squats or lunges. This not only helps your pet develop skills but also keeps you both active.
12. Stair Workouts
If you have stairs at home or live near a park with steps, use them to your advantage. Walking or running up and down stairs is a great workout for you and your dog. It’s perfect for building leg strength, stamina, and cardiovascular fitness. Start slow and make sure your dog is comfortable with the stairs before picking up the pace.
13. Tug-of-War for Strength
Tug-of-war isn’t just for fun—it’s also a strength-building exercise for your pet and can give you a solid workout as well. Use a sturdy rope toy, and play tug with your dog, engaging your arms and core muscles. It’s an exciting way to bond with your dog while adding some upper body work to your routine.
14. Create an Indoor Obstacle Course
On days when the weather isn’t cooperating, create an indoor obstacle course for your pet. Use pillows, boxes, and chairs to set up challenges for your dog or cat to navigate. You can also perform bodyweight exercises like jumping jacks or planks between your pet’s turns. It’s a fun and interactive way to keep both of you moving indoors.
Incorporating your pet into your fitness routine not only benefits your physical health but also strengthens your bond and keeps your pet mentally and physically stimulated. Whether it’s through daily walks, yoga, or hiking, working out with your pet can turn exercise into something you both look forward to. So, grab a leash, a yoga mat, or a frisbee, and start your fitness journey with your furry workout buddy!
