In the same vein as a “Mommy and Me” class, a new company, K9 Fit Club®, is emerging as the leader in human and canine fitness being achieved together.
I know I would personally be more likely to exercise at a gym if my dog came with. In fact, I have paid top dollar for my dog to attend canine conditioning classes and even privates, but never go to the gym myself. My dog is my workout, so I was intrigued by this new idea, meant to help get more people (and dogs) committed to healthier, fitter lifestyles, and decided to interview Trcia Montgomery, Founder and CEO of K9 Fit Club.
Where did the idea come from?
My background is morbid obesity and the veterinary profession. It was because of my veterinarian that began my journey in losing weight and the Chicago Veterinary Medical Association. I lost 130 pounds working out with my dog.
How are the classes structured?
Dependent on the class, they are structured with a K9 Fit Club Certified Trainer and dog/human teams. If there are more than 4 teams, a wrangler is utilized to ensure a safe, effective and fun class. We offer a 10 minute warm-up, then [rotational stations for] work of strength, weight training, plyometric and integrating cardio between. Cool down and massage at the end of the class.
What are the requirements for the instructors?
All instructors are required to be K9 Fit Club Certified. The certification program was developed by professionals in the fitness, medical and veterinary industries. Once certified we provide them with a tool kit which enables them to teach their own classes. It includes program design, assessment forms and 200 exercises.
What types of workouts do dogs and owners do?
An all-over, pawfect-conditioning program for both person and pooch, [which] includes circuit training and station work. You can expect some cardio, games, weight training, core training and a little something new, each class!
Is the purpose really to lose weight and get in shape? Is it effective?
Our goal is a happy and healthy lifestyle. Yes, we have had many people lose weight and feel better about themselves.
What are the positives of having your dog with you to workout?
The most obvious benefit of exercise is the prevention of obesity and obesity-related health issues, such as diabetes, arthritis, respiratory problems, and heart disease. They are the best muttivation and workout partner you will ever have. You are concentrated more on them than the exercises and benefits to you. Both humans and dogs that regularly exercise have more lean muscle and less fat tissue; experience fewer health problems and live longer, healthier lives.
How have the responses been so far from people who have taken classes?
PUPtastic, we have many testimonials from participants as well as very happy certified trainers.
Any future offerings?
We have two new modules being introduced at the NAVC in January. Boomer Fitness and our Wrangler Module.
Want to Workout With Your Dog?
If this sounds like a great way to get fit and have fun, you can go on to the K9 Fit Club website and find a certified trainer near you. And, if you are a trainer and interested in becoming certified, you can get more information on that as well.
About the Author
Based in Wilsonville, Ore., animal lover Kristina N. Lotz is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) and works as a full time trainer. She is the founder of A Fairytail House, a unique all-positive all-sport dog training facility that helps rescue dogs in her area and provides free seminars and training classes for the community. In her spare time, she trains and competes in herding, agility, obedience, rally, and conformation with her Shetland Sheepdogs. She smartly married a Veterinary Technician, who helps keep the fur kids happy and healthy, and provides a quick resource for articles.
