On the thread of training with a buddy I realized I had overlooked a very inspiring and motivating component, the added incentive created when you have a 4 legged friend that needs to get out and move as well. Not everyone has the lifestyle or desire to bring this into the mix but if you do all the more reason to get out and move and make someone else happy in the process. I have a lab/retriever mix who lives to go exploring. In her younger days we ran or did long steep hikes and on days when I was feeling less inclined there was always the nudge to get out even if it wasn’t for me. In the end I certainly benefited. As time has gone on my dog is not able to run for as long a period of time or to hike on the steeper terrain so I have made adjustments. It is still a grounding activity for me to take her for a walk and though it may not be part of my fitness training it is a time of reflection and an opportunity to take a breath, appreciate my surroundings and either shift to my work day mode or move out of it. So, if you don’t have a pet and are considering it there are a lot of pieces to weigh and my experience has been taht dogs are so grateful to have a home, take a walk, go for a hike/run or be included on longer adventurer like backpacking and in my case even river rafting(wearing a life jacket of course).
In support of whatever fits your lifestyle, fitness and health.
Namaste,
Laurie









