Having trouble sticking to an exercise program?

Research shows that dogs are actually nature’s perfect personal trainers—loyal, hardworking, energetic and enthusiastic.

And, unlike your friends, who may skip an exercise session because of appointments, extra chores or bad weather, dogs never give you an excuse to forego exercising.

Plan for success.

It’s easy to forget about healthy walking plans, so set the stage for a successful program:

● Establish a walking schedule. Plan to walk 30 minutes total each day. This might include a 10-minute neighborhood walk in the morning, and a 20-minute romp at the dog park after work. Maybe three 10-minute walks or one 30-minute walk will fit in better with your day.

● If dog walking is “scheduled” into each day, you’ll feel more responsible for sticking with your program. Plus, your dog will also get used to the routine and remind you when “it’s time!”

● Track your progress. Post a calendar on the refrigerator and add a sticker for each 10 minutes of walking you do each day. This will reinforce your good behavior and make you pause before opening the door to grab a calorie-laden snack!

So, grab a leash, whistle up the pup, and go for a walk—today and every day!

Dog walking is a great way to jump-start a healthy lifestyle program.

Source: www.thebark.com