Active Paws, Happy Hearts

It’s time to lace up those sneakers, grab the leash and get active with your furry friend! Exercise is important for physical wellness and can improve mental health, but sometimes it’s difficult to take the first step to start that fitness journey or be consistent in a routine.

If you’re an animal lover and feel yourself facing that exercise hurdle, it could be time for a change of pace with an unlikely sidekick. Pets have been known to bring many benefits to people’s lives, such as giving us companionship or offering more opportunities to socialize. They can also motivate you to exercise regularly — after all, what could be better than jogging in nice weather with your four-legged companion or having a rejuvenating stretch with your fluffy friend?

Whether you have a playful pup, a curious cat or a rascally rabbit, there’s an exercise routine for you. Just remember to consult your doctor before partaking in any kind of workout.

Here are four types of exercises that can be enjoyed with pets.

Cardio and aerobic exercises

Greatly enhance your stamina and endurance with activities such as jogging, hiking or swimming. These workouts are flexible in that you can simply change the speed or intensity to fit your comfort. Leashed animals with bounds of energy, such as dogs, are perfect partners to take with you during these routines. Consider playing fetch or frisbee for a change of pace and to take it up a notch.

Strength training

Strengthening your body builds and maintains muscle mass for a better metabolism, improves posture and enhances joint stability to decrease the risk of injury. There are many forms of strength training, including weightlifting or bodyweight exercises such as push-ups and squats. Pets can also enjoy strength training in the form of tug-of-war or resistance training using pet-friendly equipment such as stairs or balance boards.

Flexibility

Stretches increase your range of motion and joint flexibility, which help reduce muscle tension and the risk of injury, and promote relaxation and recovery. Some might find yoga to be intimidating, but it can be as simple as stretching to your toes or reaching for the sun. Floor stretches also offer the opportunity to snuggle your four-legged friend on their level.

Mind-body exercises

Exercises that simultaneously target the mind and body enhance body awareness, improve mental focus and help to reduce stress and anxiety. Consider meditation or taking part in Tai Chi, a gentle yet bold form of martial arts, to relax both the body and mind. Most species of pets have puzzle toys or scent games that also act as a form of mental and physical stimulation, such as hidden treat puzzle boards or treat balls.

The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the journey together. Treat yourself and your companion after each workout and continue to live your best lives together. Let the adventure begin!