11 reasons why I love Canicross

Posted by Gail Walker, 1st November 2015

Whether it’s Canicross, bikejoring, scootering or dog sledding, there are so many great things about participating in sports with your dog in this country!

Here are my top 11 reasons why I love Canicross.

1  It’s a fun way to get and keep fit. I never see Canicross as a chore…even when it’s a particularly tough route we’re doing. I am a runner anyway but I have also met many people who didn’t enjoy running before they discovered canicross and now they love it!

2  It’s the best way to bond with my dog. Nothing beats that shared experience – to be and feel part of the ‘pack’ is second-to-none!

3  The people. It’s a wonderfully social sport. I’ve met so many lovely people (and their dogs!) through Canicross and made some close friends as a result

 

Canicross is a social sport for you and your dog

I’ve made some wonderful friends all because of canicross

 

4  It makes my dogs happy…..and therefore I’m happy too 🙂

 

A happy canicross dog

Sidney just loves to canicross!

 

It helps my dogs to socialise with other dogs in a positive way. They are focussed, happy and at ease when they run and this is reinforced even more through the use of commands

6  I get to enjoy the great outdoors. I enjoy going to the gym but nothing beats being outside and discovering new and interesting routes and places

 

Dogfit canicrosser at Sussex CTS

Give me this anytime over a treadmill!

 

7  It saves me time! I can combine a run for me with a run for my dog

8  It’s better for my body than road running. Since discovering Canicross and specifically trail running, I have less injuries and general wear and tear, especially to my knees – so that can only be a good thing!

 

 

Love canicross, love the outdooors

This beats running on the road any day!

 

9  I get to compete in races. More and more off-road running events are welcoming Canicross entries. Not only is it really exhilarating to share in a racing environment with my dogs, but I get to meet fellow Canicrossers from other parts of the country. I would highly recommend it, even if it’s to experience the start of a race when the dogs are all fired up and raring to go!

 

Dogfit's Gail & Sidney racing in one of the popular Brutal 10k events

If you haven’t ever entered a Canicross-friendly race, I would highly recommend it

 

10  It’s both mentally and physically stimulating for my dogs. As well as getting a good workout, they are working with me to achieve an end goal and looking to me for guidance

11  It’s a great motivator to exercise. I have to take my dogs out so this gives me the boost I need to get out and get fit!

Have I missed anything? I’d love to hear what you love about Canicross or other dog sports you do. Please add your comments below…

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