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Fitness with Fido
Need a workout partner who won’t let you down? Look no further than your own backyard. You might already have the ultimate partner who is prepared to hit the trail at a moment’s notice. And they’ll never complain.
“Running with your dog is a great way to stay in shape,” says Bellevue Club Fitness Director Sue Matyas. “Your dog needs exercise. You need exercise. It’s a win-win. We definitely have members who pound the trails with their dogs almost every day.”
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Collared:
Which leash to choose?
Now for your dog’s least favorite part of running. With harnesses, collars, hands-free or hands-on, the running leash options are vast.
Before you go to your nearest dog boutique and start dropping coin on the latest chic collar, there are some important questions to ask that will help guide you to the perfect running leash:
1. Is your dog responsive to voice
command?
2. Is your dog easily distracted?
3. How far do you intend to run?
The newest trend is toward hands-free leashes that attach to a belt around your waist. For serious runners, holding a leash will throw off your gait. However, if your dog is easily distracted off course, the firm control of a traditional leash will be a better option. Also, harnesses have gained traction as a gentler alternative to a neck collar. For long distance runners, the harness may quickly chafe your dog’s underbelly. Less is more for the well-behaved dog.
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Before you start training for a marathon with your dog in tow, there are several tips to keep in mind for a safe and positive experience.
- Check with the experts. Give your veterinarian a call to make sure your dog is fit for running. Your dog’s vet may offer some helpful insights. If you aren’t an experienced runner, talk to a Bellevue Club personal trainer to establish a safe workout plan.
- Start slow. If you’re an experienced runner, the temptation will be to expect your dog to immediately keep up with you on your daily five-mile jaunt. After all, Fido ha endless energy at home, right? Just like any fitness endeavor, your dog needs time to get in shape, especially in the paws. Gradually increase the mileage, while checking his or her paws for tenderness or bleeding. If its paws are hurting, give your pooch a couple days of rest.
- Trails are your friend. Just like hard surfaces tend to hurt your joints, imagine what it would feel like if you aged in dog years. Try to find soft surfaces for a more pleasant experience for both you and your dog.
- Leash please. No matter how well you’ve trained your dog, a tempting squirrel can derail your workout in an instant. However, chasing your loose dog could also count as cardio.
- Hydration. Carry enough water for both you and your dog. Keep a portable water dish in your runner’s pack for ease.
Watch for overheating and exhaustion. If your dog is panting, foaming at the mouth, dragging its tongue, agitated or has glazed eyes, your dog probably has severe fatigue or heat illness. Wet your dog and move them to the shade or air-conditioning as soon as possible. If your dog begins to vomit or doesn’t improve, call a veterinarian immediately.
MONTHLY SCHEDULES
Group Exercise (GPX) & Yoga Schedule (PDF)
Group Personal Training Schedule (PDF)
Fitbiz Monthly Newsletter (PDF)
For additional Fitness information, please visit the Classes & Events page. |
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Fitness Director: Sue Matyas| 425.688.3177 | fitness@bellevueclub.com
Pilates Desk:425.688.3455
Fitness Studio Hours:
M-F 5 a.m.-10:30 p.m. |
Sa 6 a.m.-10:30 p.m. |
Su 7:45 a.m.-8:30 p.m.
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