Thinking of Joining a Gym? Work Out With Your Dog Instead!

Let’s see, just how many gym memberships have fallen by the wayside because I never used them?  I hate working out at a gym.  It’s expensive.  I have to drive there, find a parking spot, secure a locker - Darn ! Did I forget my gym lock again?  I have to then wait for a machine and wipe the sweat off it 'cause the last person didn't.  And why is everyone  at the gym always infinitely thinner than I could ever aspire to be??  As if that wasn't reason enough not to go to the gym, don't you feel like it’s a giant petri dish of plague?  Why not ditch all that unpleasantness in favor of working out with your dog!



Incorporate your dog into your New Year’s fitness goals.  Your dog is always a willing exercise partner and will motivate you to get out & exercise, and stick to your program.  He'll never say "Ah, the heck with the gym, let's go out for chocolate martinis!" Think about your health, exercise and weight loss goals as you formulate how you can get yourself and your dog up and moving more. 
 
There are many ways to incorporate your dog into a workout.   Your dog is pretty much always willing, so just pick the days of the week and boom!  Instant workout plan, Instant workout partner!  My favorite activity to do with my dogs is Hiking or Walking.  We try to do these activities together at least 3 times a week for 40 minutes to around 2 hours for longer hikes. 



Walking, Running, jogging, biking, hiking, and Yoga with your dog (Doga) are all things you can do with your dog that burn calories, work your muscles, make you sweat and make you feel great!  Isn't that all anyone really needs from a gym?  And the cost?  Nada!   



Here's a rough estimate of calories burned by performing various activities:

  • WALKING 30 mins at 3mph: approximately  115 – 200 calories, depending on your weight

  • HIKING 30 mins : approximately 200-350 calories, depending on your weight

  • RUNNING 30 mins at 6mph: approximately 350-625 calories, depending on your weight
 
  • BIKING 30 mins at 10mph: approximately 215-325 calories, depending on your weight

 
YOGA burns calories as well, but I think the bigger benefit is improved muscle tone and flexibility.

So grab your dog and get moving!  You'll both get in better shape, which could even lead to less costly medical expenses in the long run for both of you.

One of the blogs I follow that has a lot of information on fitness for your dog is Slimdoggy. Check it out!


Do you exercise with your dog?  What other activities do you engage in with your dog that promote health benefits for both of you?  We love to hear what you think, so please leave us a comment!

THIS IS A MONDAY MISCHIEF BLOG HOP!!


 

12 comments:

The Adventures of the LLB Gang said...

One of our goals this year is getting out with at least one of the pups everyday!

Two French Bulldogs said...

We make lazy walk with us
Lily & Edward

Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them said...

That's a terrific goal! That will be so beneficial for you and your pups! Thanks for stopping by!

Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them said...

LOL! Good for you - get lazy moving! Thanks for stopping by today Lily & Edward!

Anonymous said...

This is a great way to keep the New Year's Resolution to get more exercise. As my girl is getting older she walks a little slower which is great for me as I get back into the walking routine. I think this is going to help both of us. Love the post.

M. K. Clinton said...

Bentley is my inspiration for staying healthy. We need each other. ♥

Unknown said...

OMD! I was the worst at gym memberships!!! hahahaha! I would always go for a couple weeks and that was IT! Walking huskies is much better!
ღ husky hugz ღ frum our pack at Love is being owned by a husky!

Anonymous said...

I agree, walking or hiking with your dog is way more fun than being in a gym! Fresh air and a workout partner that's having a great time along with you.

Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them said...

That's great that you're incorporating more exercise for both of you. It's part of my Resolution for 2015 as well. Thanks for visiting the blog Suzanne!

Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them said...

Yes, Bentley is inspirational in so many ways! It's nice to love and need each other, I'm glad you're staying healthy together! Thanks for stopping by M.K.!

Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them said...

Oh me too! I avoid the gym at all costs LOL. I can stick with hiking and walking w/ my dogs but the gym, not so much! Thanks for stopping by Jenna!

Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them said...

It sure is! I'll take walking or hiking w/ my dogs out in the fresh air over the gym any day of the week! Thanks for visiting us on the blog!

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