Sometimes we need an outside force to motivate us to do what is right for us. With fitness, the best motivation may be to help those who can’t help themselves — our pets. I recently came across this heartwarming CNN story of a dog and his owner finding each other and tackling the weight loss challenge together. It highlights several benefits of working out with your pet:
- Our pets are relying on us to keep them healthy. It’s a lot harder to skip your daily walks when they’re relying on you for them.
- They provide the emotional support needed to push through. Even if you’re not feeling your best, there is something about our pets that gives us a boost.
- Just having them around has physical benefits. Research shows they lower blood pressure.
Just in case you needed yet another reason to love your pet!
– Dan Mulcahey