2020 has FINALLY come to a close. After months of staying home and working on our quarantine bodies, you might have New Year’s resolutions of getting fit on your mind. You don’t have to do it alone! Our pets can be the best inspiration and workout companion to keep you motivated while also having fun. Check out some of these ideas to inspire your “new year, new you” goals.
Walking in a Winter Wonderland
If it’s not too cold outside consider going for walks with your pet. It’s a great way to get your blood pumping and bond with your best friend at the same time. Bundle up and make sure your pet is comfortable with a sweater/jacket if needed. Start by going for a few walks a week and gradually increase your amount of walks and/or time walked. Explore some new trails or take a new route in the neighborhood to keep things interesting. Also consider inviting a friend and their pet along for the journey (socially distanced of course) to socialize while you burn some calories! The more fun you have the more likely you are to continue onward with working towards your goals.
When temperatures fall below 32 degrees it can be dangerous for your pet to be outside for too long. Consider some indoor actives instead!
Workout at Home
Roll out your yoga mat and your cat is almost guaranteed to want to join you. While they can’t commit to the poses and stretches you are doing, having them there can make the experience much more enjoyable. Plus, petting them is a great excuse to take a break. Your dog might also get into it! There are lots of Youtube videos such as “Doga“, “Pup Pilates“, and even exercises that involve lifting your dog or squatting with your dog.
Playtime is a great way to exercise and have fun with your pet! While they are chasing the ball see how many sit ups or push ups you can do before they bring it back. Grab a laser pointer and while your cat is running around trying to capture the elusive red dot have a dumbbell in the other hand and do as many overhead presses, curl ups, or rows as you can.
Set up an obstacle course for your pet to run through. Using things around the house for them to jump over, crawl under, and weave through can be a fun activity for you and your pet (both dogs and cats!) Once your course is set up, have some of your pet’s favorite treats handy and get to work. You and your pet won’t even know you are working out it will be so fun!
Just remember that getting fit is a process! If you are doing things you enjoy doing then you are much more likely to maintain your fitness goals and stay consistent. Finding ways to incorporate your pets into your activities can not only help both of you get fit but can also create a stronger bond between you. Your pet will love you no matter what, so just have fun and get creative! Comment below with your favorite ways to stay active with your best friend.
Written by: Tara Cleveland
Animal Marketing Coordinator