At DogFit, we’re best known for helping people discover the joys of Canicross, hands-free running with your dog. … but did you know that you can still keep fit by hands-free power walking with your dog…something we call Canitrekking?
Whether you are just starting out on your fitness journey, nervous about running with a potentially strong-pulling dog or simply want to have the option to walk instead of run, we’re going to explain everything you need to know…with a little help from a friend, Sara-Jane Ladhams, DogFit Trainer, who covers the beautiful countryside around Ludlow, Shropshire. A former teacher turned personal trainer, Sarah-Jane is passionate about health, wellbeing, and helping people (and their dogs) feel confident and active, whatever their starting point.
What Is Canitrekking?
Canitrekking is essentially hands-free power walking with your dog, using the same principles and kit as Canicross, but at a walking pace. It’s a fantastic alternative for:
- People nervous about running with their dog
- Owners with strong-pulling dogs who want better control
- Those recovering from injury or returning to fitness
- Dog owners looking for an enjoyable, social way to stay active
Our DogFit Canitrekking Kit includes a specially designed padded belt that can be worn over everyday clothing (even jeans) making it super comfortable and practical for hikers, walkers, and anyone who wants to enjoy hands-free dog walking.
Sara-Jane’s Story
With a background in fitness and dog welfare, including a dream role at Dogs Trust, Sarah-Jane has long championed the benefits of staying active with our four-legged friends. Her own rescue dog, Rosie, a clever Collie-Springer cross, was the catalyst for getting into Canicross.
Now joined by two other dogs (including a new golden retriever puppy), Sara-Jane lives on a working farm and enjoys a life full of fitness, dogs, and the great outdoors. As a DogFit Trainer, she runs both Canicross and Canitrekking sessions, helping people of all ages and abilities feel welcome and supported.
Why Choose Canitrekking?
Many of Sara-Jane’s clients are women navigating perimenopause or menopause, looking for a way to get fitter without high-impact exercise. For them, Canitrekking offers a non-intimidating, effective alternative to traditional fitness classes.
She explains: “A lot of my clients feel uncomfortable running or have tried gyms and HIIT classes that weren’t right for them. Walking – especially purposeful, power walking, feels accessible and empowering. And with the right equipment and support, it becomes something they genuinely enjoy and stick with.”
Sara-Jane’s classes are friendly, flexible, and designed to meet people where they are. Some prefer to stick with walking, while others build confidence and fitness and eventually transition to running. It’s all about doing what feels right for both human and dog.
More Than Just a Walk
Canitrekking isn’t just a stroll. It’s a great cardiovascular workout, especially when you’re walking with purpose, tackling hills, and incorporating commands to improve your dog’s focus. Sara-Jane uses her experience from local running clubs to teach techniques like “chatty pace” walking — getting the heart rate up while still being able to hold a conversation. It’s also ideal in warmer months, when running with dogs isn’t always advisable. Walking is gentler, keeps everyone cooler, and still delivers great fitness benefits.
Perfect for Rescue Dogs and Anxious Pups
As a former Dogs Trust educator, Sarah-Jane knows just how valuable hands-free walking can be for rescue dogs — many of whom can’t be let off lead and are still learning how to walk calmly. “Canitrekking is brilliant for anxious or reactive dogs,” she says. “It helps them burn energy, stay focused, and learn to walk on a lead in a controlled and enjoyable way.”
DogFit’s hands-free kit helps distribute pulling force, reduces stress on arms and shoulders, and gives owners a sense of freedom and connection, making everyday walks more enjoyable and manageable.
A Welcoming Community
One of the best things about Canitrekking is the community. Whether you’re joining a DogFit class or just heading out with friends, the social side is a big part of the experience. “We have such a laugh on our walks,” Sara-Jane says. “Everyone’s getting fit, the dogs are loving it, and you leave feeling better in every way.”
Getting Started
If you’re thinking about giving Canitrekking a try, here’s how to get started:
- Get the Right Kit – Our DogFit Canitrekking Kit is designed for comfort and control.
- Find a Trainer – Visit dogfit.co.uk to find your local DogFit Trainer. If you’re in the Ludlow area, Sarah-Jane would love to welcome you!
- Book a Taster Session – Learn about the kit, get personalised guidance, and enjoy a fun, pressure-free introduction.
- Take It at Your Own Pace – Whether you walk, jog, or eventually run, there’s no right or wrong way to enjoy the outdoors with your dog.
Final Thoughts
Canitrekking is a brilliant way to stay active, connect with your dog, and enjoy the great outdoors, with no pressure to run. Whether it’s a stepping stone to Canicross or your forever fitness routine, it’s all about consistency, enjoyment, and building confidence.
As Sara-Jane puts it: “We just want people to be out, having fun with their dogs — without pressure, without judgment. Just getting fit together and enjoying life.”
Interested in joining a Canitrekking class or finding out more? Visit DogFit.co.uk to find your local trainer or get in touch. You can find details of our Canitrekking kit here
You can also follow Sarah-Jane on her podcast Menopause and Motherhood, where she shares more about health, fitness, and the joys of life with dogs.
