What is needed for this combo?

Below is a combination exercise that on the "surface" may seem relatively easy  but I believe that we must look at it from the dogs perspective and train each "movement" individually before asking our dogs to complete complicated exercises.

​This is an equipment combination that I used in my Fitness with Focus class BUT these particular advanced exercises  were not shown.   I decided to put in a blog post because I believe it demonstrates how complicated exercise can be "for our dogs".   We need to advocate for our dogs and stop tossing them under the buss!   Train each movement, each piece of equipment and each exercise individually so that our dogs truly understands what is being asked.  Our dogs do a GREAT job of "guessing" what we want. Or they "follow a lure" to the next piece of equipment or to the next movement.   When they guess or follow a lure they are not activating the right muscles to stabilize on balance equipment because their body is moving by their nose or off the handlers movement.  

Once your dog starts to truly understand what you are asking, you will  see a major shift in their fitness. Your dog will become stronger, move better, stabilize their movements in all direction AND the chance of injury will be reduced.  

Basic foundation skills:

• advanced balance
• front and rear feet on equipment
• bow
• limb awareness
• side stepping
• ipsilateral stands or same side feet up

Movements are in these planes of motion:

• median or Forward/backward
• transverse or side stepping and twisting

Some of the required strength: 

• core and spinal strength to hold a flat back in an over extended stand and activate the muscles to tuck the rear forward.
• strength to stabilize the shoulders and hips with weight shifted to one side
• core and spinal strength to hold balance while bending though the spine
• strength to hold static while while rotating in/out (supination/pronation)

There is a lot that goes into the training of each exercise and each piece of equipment you use. If you are unsure of how to train a combination exercise or what the foundation skills are - ask.   I am always happy to tell you.   

Please enjoy the video.   Ask questions if you like, pass it on to others and think about what you are asking of your dog.  

Bobbie

Sign up today for Live Online lessons.  One lesson is $100 USD or you can get FOUR lessons for $350 USD ($50 off).   When you decide on lessons from me, you will get FOUR 60 min lessons via Zoom (like Skype - it's easy. I will talk you through it).   My students have really enjoyed these lessons while learning how to properly strengthen their dogs.   Having a trainer in your back yard or living room to give you REAL time feedback is super beneficial and via the internet, I can be there with you.    Four lessons allows us to build on what you and your dog already know, teach needed foundation skills and design a plan specific to you and your dog.   I am not in the business of selling you equipment so we will use what you have and things you have around your house.   I may suggest equipment for a specific strength exercise but it I will do my best to use what you have.   Lessons can be scheduled during the day or some evenings.  ​

What you get:

• recording of your lesson sent to you
• written recap of your lesson along with any instructional videos I have
• real time instruction
• program design with suggested reps/sets and how often to complete the exercises 
• and more..... we can discuss any training issue that plaques you.