Walk Your Dog

A new study published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health showed that dog owners stay more active. In their study, dog owners spent more time walking and less time in sedentary activities than people without dogs. Dog owners were one and a half times more likely to meet recommendations for healthy physical activity than those without dogs.

How much exercise is enough? According to the World Health Organization, adequate exercise to promote good health includes:

* 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity daily for children 5 to 17 years old
* 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise five days per week for adults 18 to 65 years old, plus strengthening exercises two days per week
* 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise five days per week, with modifications as needed in seniors over 65 years old, plus flexibility and balance exercises

Read more tips for getting healthy through dog walking in my article in The Bark — Walk It Off — Grab a Leash and Get Moving. Then log your walking progress with a FitAsFido diary in the book, Fit As Fido. You can also download a free FitAsFido walking log here to help you get started. So grab a leash, whistle for Fido, and start walking your way to a trimmer, healthier you!