How you and your pooch can stay fit while traveling

 












According to the calendar, spring arrives today. Many of us, however, may doubt what we see on that wall ornament as we look outside. No matter if the season has changed where you live or if you still see piles of snow in the yard, knowing that the sun will shine, the temperature will rise, and travel will commence. Taking your furry friend on the road with you can be a wonderful experience and can also help you maintain your exercise routine. This week I welcome fitness expert and dog lover Paige Johnson -- she shares with us ideas and insights about how you and your dog can stay fit while traveling.

Guest Post by Paige Johnson

Staying fit while you’re on the road can be a real challenge, but if you decide to bring your dog along in lieu of leaving him with a kennel, friend, or loved one, you’re more apt to maintain your routine. Studies show that dog owners have a better chance of attaining their fitness goals than those who forgo having a furry friend. Why? You’re forced to move more (by an impressive 69 percent), dogs can increase your walking endurance, and mental health is improved while blood pressure is decreased.
 
Activities
If you have yet to choose a destination for your trip, consider checking out resources that help connect dog owners to pet-friendly establishments around the world. Along with hotels and restaurants, you’ll find tips for the best dog beaches, parks, and even walking tours you can bring your dog to.
 
Standard activities that may come to mind may include running (consider signing up for a canine charity race), walking, cycling, and hiking. Consider these alternatives:

Stand-up paddle boarding: You’ll both be working on balance, but you’ll also be getting a killer core workout in the process. For safety purposes, make sure your pooch is sporting a doggie life preserver and vest outfitted with a handle so it’s easy to pull him back up after taking a dip.Dog yoga: Dog yoga is a real thing. Designed to be a pet-human bonding experience, you will coach your dog with poses while your furry friend will (hopefully) serve as a prop for your own moves. It’s not uncommon for doggy massage and accupressure to be incorporated into the class, so use this as an opportunity to check your pet for unusual lumps under his fur.  Active fetch: Instead of just standing while waiting for your dog to retrieve a ball or frisbee, take the time to squeeze in standing exercises such as squats, lunges, push-ups, or crunches. Try doing a mix of upper- and lower-body exercises for the greatest effect. You can also sprint with your dog if you want more of a cardio-based workout.Stair running: Give yourself a good glute, hamstring, and quad workout with a stair (or bleacher) workout. It’s likely that your dog isn’t as used to running up and down stairs, so he’ll be challenged in a different way, too. Stay conscious of your speed so you both stay safe. Cross-country skiing: Cold weather isn’t an excuse to skip a workout. Bundle up and hit the trails on skis while your dog runs alongside you, likely making periodic stops to frolic in the snow.Agility courses: Traveling is a great opportunity to explore an agility course. These programs can help you establish a closer relationship with your dog by using body language to communicate. Additional benefits for pooches include solving behavior issues, improved off-leash reliability, increased endurance, and exercise that exhausts both body and mind.  
  Maintain a Healthy Routine for Your Pooch 
Just because you’re away from home doesn’t mean you should forgo your dog’s regular, healthy routine. This includes a healthy diet to avoid stomach problems, access to fresh water at all times, clean food and water dishes, and regular walks.
 
Pack Appropriately
When packing your fitness gear, consider what additional items your dog may need based on the activities you have in mind. Some suggestions include: A hiking pack so he can carry his own food and water—collapsible bowls are best for eating and drinkingBooties to protect his feet on rough trails or in snow.A jacket if you’re traveling to a chilly climate.An LED collar light.A pet first aid kit.An extra collar in case his collar breaks.A hands-free leash to make hiking or running with your dog easier.  
Not only does traveling with your dog help you stay on top of your fitness game, it’s also a bonding experience. Do your research in advance to make the most of your experience. Don’t forget to get your dog vaccinated if traveling overseas and ask your vet for any tips for car and airplane travel prior to departure.

Author Bio
Paige Johnson is a fitness nerd and animal lover. She shares her insights on LearnFit. She loves offering advice on a variety of topics. As a personal trainer, she has a passion for fitness training and enjoys sharing her knowledge with those seeking to live a healthier lifestyle. She's also mom to three dogs, all rescues, and volunteers at her local animal shelter. Through her time with her own pups and working at the shelter, she's picked up some great tips on pet care and training.


Credit for Photos: Pixabay