If your dog is overweight, chances are that you are not walking enough. Dogs tend to resemble their owners. We have all seen those pictures of cute doggies who appear to have a striking resemblance to their owners. I am a dog lover, and proud owner of “Seamus”, a rescue dog who is the perfect blend of Saint Bernard and Collie. I can say without reservation that I feel better after walking my dog (and so does he).
Why walk? Walking is a great and inexpensive way to get into shape. Do you suffer from gym phobia? Start increasing your physical activity with a walking program. Walking will improve your stamina, while reducing your stress level. Looking to tone your muscles? Yet another reason to walk. Several scientific studies have shown that walking lowers the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. To start walking, all you need is a proper fitting pair of sneakers, comfortable clothing and the willingness to start moving. For those of you who have diabetes, always check with your doctor and podiatrist before starting any walking program and make sure you monitor your blood sugar levels. Proper fitting shoes are of paramount importance when starting any exercise program, so as not to develop foot problems. Always remember to stretch gently before walking in order to warm up your muscles, and stretch again after cooling down. Stretching is extremely important. The last thing you want is to hurt yourself because of a pulled hamstring or muscle!
If you have the desire to start exercising, put on your sneakers, grab the leash and you and Fido can head out the door. Start by walking down the block and back. It might sound funny, but if you are not used to walking, don’t go far! You and your pooch have to come back. After a few days, add another five minutes to your walk. Eventually, you’ll be walking your dog for about thirty minutes a day. Both of you are on the road to improving your health!
Remember to walk tall because posture is always important. Hold your head up high and look forward. Keep your shoulders back and tighten your tummy muscles. Breathe naturally, and try to walk with your arms positioned just slightly less than a ninety degree angle. The hardest thing about any exercise program is to stay with it (exercise is one of those good habits). Make sure your walk is manageable for you. You will eventually walk faster, and for a longer period of time. Consider investing in a pedometer. That way you can measure your steps each and every day.
If eventually your furry four legged buddy is lagging behind (because you have built yourself up to a fast pace and you have seriously increased your mileage), then think about walking the dog… and then going out for “your walk“. Make sure when you walk, you are never gasping for air and are able to carry on a conversation. Cardiovascular health starts to improve when you can walk at least 3-4 times per week for 20-30 minutes at a fast pace. If your goal is to shed some pounds, try to walk a minimum of five days a week for at least 45-60 minutes.
Show yourself and your dog some love by going out for a walk together. And if you don’t have a dog, start walking anyway. Maybe when you see someone walking his or her dog, it will inspire you to rescue a deserving dog, just as I did with Seamus.
Sometimes I find it so difficult to drink just plain water. I was never a coffee or hot tea drinker (I am actually a recovering diet iced tea addict!). But I know that drinking water is a very big part of my overall health, so it became very important to me to put down the iced tea and pick up the glass of water. A number of studies have shown that drinking water raises metabolic rate and therefore helps with weight control. Water is a great thirst quencher which will keep you well hydrated. After all, our bodies are made up primarily of water.
