How are you tracking for 2016? There’s been a fair few weeks to crack into it. I, for one, would like to announce that I’m fitter, eating cleaner and navigating a course of traffic jams, fighting children and barking dogs with the calm precision of a Jedi master. Ok… at least I haven’t given up the dream yet! Let’s remember this is a message of hope.

THERE’S STILL PLENTY OF TIME FOR POSITIVE CHANGE IN 2016!

But there’s no need to set your gaze too high. Look down.. a bit lower… See that personal trainer greeting you at the door? Four legs and boundless enthusiasm… yep, that’s the one. Leash up and walk your way to a better 2016.Walking has a shocking range of benefits for the effort required.Already a daily walker? Try going for a longer walk or adding in a second one. If you don’t walk regularly just commit to one brisk 30 minute walk each day and you and your dog will reap huge benefits!

What’s in it for you & your dog?

1. Slim down : walking for 30 minutes burns around 440 kJ for a woman (70kg) and 500kJ for a man (85kg).
2. Strengthen your heart: prevent and control high blood pressure
3. Keep your bones strong: walking puts pressure on your bones which sends a signal to your body to improve bone strength – so your body adds new cells to your bones
4. Lower risks of disease such as type 2 diabetes and cancer:
5. Boost your vitamin D intake from the sun for better bone and immune system health.
6. Feel happier: according to studies exercise works as well to release feel-good endorphins as anti-depressants and reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression
7. Live longer: studies show an association between walking and a 19%-30% reduction in premature deaths in humans
8. Improve your relationship with your dog : build a stronger bond and reduce your dog’s destructive behaviour & hyperactivity
9. Make more friends: dog walking is one of the 5 tops ways to meet new people.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the faster, farther and more frequently you work, the greater the benefits. 

Here’s some tips the Mayo Clinic suggests to get the most fitness out of your walking.

1. Look forward with your head up while you’re walking.
2. Keep your neck, shoulders and back relaxed, not stiffly upright.
3. Swing your arms freely with a slight bend in your elbows.
4. Keep your stomach muscles slightly tightened and your back straight
5. Walk smoothly, rolling your foot from heel to toe.

With all these benefits to your health and your dog’s health HOW can you RESIST taking your walking up a notch?

Get into a regular schedule and your dog will perk up like an alarm to let you know when it’s time to get out there. Count on your dog to keep you both motivated. You may not always feel like going for a walk when you head out, but I can almost guarantee you’ll be feeling much more energised and thinking more positively when you return.

Chances are the only walk you’ll regret is the one you didn’t take.

So don’t not take it. : )

Wishing you and your pack all the absolute best in 2016!
Zoe
waggle.com.au