FitLabPGH promotes #movementisalifestyle with weekly movement tips & a Labrador Lesson. This week the Labs took a vacation from tips, but celebrated Memorial Day w time on the trails!!
Our Movement Tips: Be Adaptable to Conditions & Move Throughout the Year
As humans, we tend to have a plan when we go out for a walk, hike, or run that includes a certain pace…especially if we use Strava. The Labs are here to remind us that sometimes enjoying our time outside is more important than pace…especially if there are good smells or acorns to forage. The Labs go MUCH slower if there are acorns…
Note: Ben is aware that Labradors are dogs!
Move more. Move often. Worry less about pace; just keep moving.
As Labradors, we’re comfortable making our way through rocky, rooted, uneven trails. We understand that not all humans share our comfort level. So if you’re a human who struggles to pick your way along challenging trails, we suggest you find a trail dog to follow.
At FitLab, Maggie the Black Lab is our trail leader, almost always choosing the best lines. Puddin the yellow lab is equally sure-footed, but she chooses questionable lines that may prove difficult for humans. Move more. Move often. When in doubt, follow a trail dog.
You may have a plan when you go out for a walk, hike, or run that includes a certain pace. If you’re moving with dogs, remember to factor their comfort into your plan. If you have a dog who doesn’t love heat (or who isn’t acclimated to heat), a fast run on a hot Spring day is not a good idea. Of course, don’t risk your safety trying to keep up with your dog! And don’t risk your dog’s health asking him/her to keep up with you.
Move more. Move often. Move with your dogs. Stay safe.
We all have different definitions of “bad” weather. For the Labradors, a snowy walk means best day ever. The humans at FitLab prefer warmer, drier conditions, but the Labs remind us to get outside…even on a chilly, drizzly, foggy morning. Safety first: we DO let thunderstorms 🌩️ keep us inside. But if it’s safe to get outside, we leash the Labs and get moving.
Move more. Move often. Whether you’re a dog or a human, don’t let less than ideal weather keep you inside.
Sometimes your movement plans get disrupted…when they do, keep moving. Our first attempt to hike the Meadow Mountain Trail in Deep Creek Lake State Park was thwarted by thunderstorms. Attempt number two was cut short because Lisa forgot to bring water on an unexpectedly warm day. The third attempt was a success, and we’re now including this trail in our regular movement routine. If at first you don’t succeed, try, and try again…and again.
Move more. Move often. Show perseverance with your movement.
Spring is a great time to get outside for long hikes, bike rides, and runs. The Labradors would like to remind you that your dogs also like to participate in Spring adventures. If your activity of choice isn’t dog friendly, consider adding a shorter dog walk to that day’s agenda. If your outdoor activity IS dog friendly, remember to bring dog snacks and water if necessary.
Move more. Move often. Include your dogs in your Spring adventures.