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!

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