If your looking to get some movement with your dog and learn how they help us live a healthier lifestyle, then this video is for you! And Includes;
3 scientifically proven methods using touch, play, and eye contact to increase happiness and reduce stress for us and our pets.
Learn how to keep our lower back pain free as we keep up with the daily tasks as a dog parent.
3 tips on how to leverage our dogs natural playfulness and enthusiasm for exercise to improve our own fitness.
Hi Guys!
Join Guadalupe the boxer, Celia, and I in this fun video as we incorporate the science that basically tells us, the more we look at, play with, and touch our dogs, the more they will love us!
The use of touch, cuddling, and petting is probably one of the most commonly practiced and enjoyed ways people connect with their furry friends (for us anyway lol). However, to my surprise, there are various types of pet massages that can improve the wellbeing of our pets.
In the video we do some gentle petting that does overlap some of the superficial lymph nodes, however it certainly does NOT qualify as therapeutic lymphatic massage. Nor do I claim to be a vet, so if unsure about any of the petting we demonstrate, please contact one. It does however allow us to get some movement in while we get some quality bonding time in with our dog.
I would also recommend, especially for older dogs, checking out the great folks at petmassage.com for more information and resources on the topic. They even have a course if you want to become a certified PetMassage practitioner! I'm sure your dog will thank you for it:)
When it comes to general health and fitness, the majority of dog owners tend to live a healthier lifestyle then most, however for those wanting to make further improvements, try incorporating the tips below. The key is to take notice of, and work with your dogs innate willingness to play, exercise, and interact with you! You can even think of your dog as your own personal trainer, or support system that is giving you clues and encouragement to move with them more often.
Habit stacking
Use existing habits to build new ones. First identify an existing habit (like your current dog walk), and add a new habit before or after. Start as small as possible, for example try adding a body weight exercise or mobility activity to the walking routine (both of these don't require a gym or equipment). Try building a streak, and only add to it when you have several days or weeks of consistency.
Overlapping Tasks
Some habits we have with our dog can also overlap with others. Next time you take your dog to the park, try doing some extra activity while they play. If your dog likes playing fetch, try doing a few body weight exercises as they run after the ball. Although I can never keep up, sometimes I join in and run after the ball too!
Task Spitting
Involves combining a physical task and cognitive task that works well together. Audio books, phone calls, podcasts can sometimes be combined with walking or exercising with your dog. I'd suggest this approach should be reserved for only the very busy days that put our ideal activity levels in jeopardy. Being present with our pets is how they help us forget about our stresses and bring us joy. Not to mention, being fully engaged with our dogs is much safer, especially if we are walking with our dogs in the city.
If your looking for something more relaxing to de-stress, try combing cuddling while you curl up with a good book. If your looking for something dog related, try my Aunt Anne Shillolo's Mystery Series.
Thanks for reading and I really hope you enjoy following along with us in this Express Workout video! Please reach out with any questions or comments and let me know how your training and nutrition is going! You can also book in for a free consultation and assessment to set up a personalized plan that works for you!
I specialize in helping busy professionals in the st. Lawrence Market, Distillery district, and Corktown neighbourhoods of Toronto. I also offer online coaching and virtual sessions for those outside the downtown Toronto area.