Introducing, Your Best Cardio Friend
Have you ever had a difficult time getting motivated to get out of the house to begin that workout or outdoor cardio? For us, there was a simple solution to this dilemma. Four and half years ago, Brad and I added a new member to our family. It was most definitely love at first sight, but little did we know how much exercise Rocky would require and that our days of procrastinating on cardio sessions would be brought to a demanding halt. When feeling a little less than energized, there is no better motivator to get our feet to hit the pavement than those “human-like” golden eyes and occasional nose bearing nudges to the groin pleading for some outdoor attention to get us up and moving.
The Department of Health and Human Services recommends that you should get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week. As a general guideline, aim for about 30 minutes of aerobic activity a day. With a dog, you can easily reach this goal by adding several 10 minute walks/jogs to your daily regimen.
If that didn’t convince you, here are five more reasons (according to Runner’s World) to get a new 4-legged running partner:
1 People don’t have tails that wag
On days you’re dragging, Sparky can remind you that running should be joyful. His relaxed stride and frisky vigor are contagious. Dogs even look like they’re smiling
2 It’s better than bonding over a bowl of kibble
You like to run. And dogs are natural runners. You might be surprised how much you get out of sharing this common interest. It’s even better if you both take a nap afterward.
3 They don’t worry about negative splits
Human partners can get caught up in how many calories they’ve burned and their GPSstats, but a dog will remind you that the best workouts are the ones where you run free.
4 They won’t accept your excuses
When that tail starts wagging, it’s hard to say no. One University of Missouri study showed that people who exercised with a dog were more likely to stick with it than those who go it alone or with a human partner.
5 A tired dog is a good dog
Get Fido sufficiently tired, and when you get home, he’s more apt to snooze at your feet than terrorize the postman—or chew up your new Nikes.
If your own dog is not a venture you’re ready to take on yet, Rocky has become a well received fixture at Brad Kolowich Jr. Personal Training Studio. He is continuing to help motivate Brad and his trainers clients through the toughest of workouts and would always love to join you on the pavement!
-Mandy
Personal Trainer, Studio Manager, Rocky’s Owner
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