Mikaela Nhuyen is a Queensland-based personal trainer who has seen a rise in mums with bubs joining the Run-With-Dog Club. It sounds complicated but she’s got her tips to make it work.
We’ve all heard of the run club fitness craze, but it’s not exactly the most convenient way to hit the pavement when you’ve got a baby and a four-legged friend. But there’s a new trend in town, and, the best part is you can take your clan with you.
Picture this: the stroller is loaded, trainers on, and your furry family member is ready to hit the ground running. Enter the latest fitness fad that’s made for mums and dog lovers alike: the Run-With-Dog Club. Fitness expert, gym owner, and proud dog mum Mikaela Nguyen is calling it, this is the workout for busy mums who crave exercise, fresh air, and a little help keeping up with the energy demands of family life.
If you’ve ever struggled to find motivation to work out post-baby, you’re not alone. But as Mikaela points out, running with your dog is a way to get that push to move, without the hassle of joining a group or gym if that’s not your scene. “Running with my dogs after having a baby gave everyone what they needed after a long day,” she says. “Baby gets outdoors, dogs get exercise, and I get fit.” Talk about a win-win-win for the whole family.
Running with your dog isn’t just a great fitness booster, it’s also an instant stress-buster, offering a burst of fresh air and a daily dose of feel-good endorphins. Plus, having your pup with you on a run means there’s always a pair of loyal, encouraging eyes right next to you, even on those days when you’re moving at a snail’s pace (no judgement here; your dog loves every second!).
Why the run-with-dog club works so well for mums
For many mums, finding time to exercise can be a challenge, but running with your dog provides flexibility: you choose the time, the pace, and the route, and there’s no need to arrange for childcare if you’re bringing the baby along in the stroller. And when you’re on a busy schedule, there’s nothing quite as motivating as knowing you’re giving your dog a chance to burn off some of their boundless energy, too.
Got an active breed who’s always raring to go? This fitness craze is perfect for them. Thousands of active dogs, particularly working breeds, are overrepresented in shelters, waiting to find homes with people who can keep up with them. That’s why Mikaela believes the Run-With-Dog Club is not only great for mums and their fitness but could also help so many dogs in need of active families who love the outdoors.
How to get started … Even if you’re not exactly marathon-ready!
Starting a running routine doesn’t mean you need to be ready to run a marathon, especially with a pup by your side who’s just as happy with a walk-jog. Begin with short, comfortable distances, says Mikaelal, and let the joy of having a happy, panting pup alongside you work its magic. If you’re up for adopting, a shelter dog might just be waiting for you to join the club. Active dog breeds can be amazing companions, and a committed running routine can offer them the ideal outlet for their energy.
So, mums, grab the stroller, leash up your pup, and join the Run-With-Dog Club, it’s the ultimate feel-good fitness trend you and your family will love.
Tips to run tangle-free with your pup
Running with a dog can be exhilarating, but let’s be real: it’s easy to end up in a tangled mess if you’re not prepared. To keep things smooth and avoid any leash chaos, consider using a hands-free leash that attaches around your waist, perfect for keeping your hands free for the stroller or steadying yourself if your pup pulls a little too enthusiastically. Start by training your dog to stay on one side (usually the left) and use short, clear commands like “heel” or “slow” to keep them focused and calm.
If you’re bringing the stroller, try a few practice walks first to let your pup get used to staying beside it. Reward them with treats and praise when they stay in position without crossing in front of you. With a bit of practice, your dog will quickly catch on to the routine, and you’ll both find a comfortable rhythm that makes running together feel like second nature. And voilà, no more tangled legs, just smooth, fun runs for both you and your four-legged workout buddy!
Mikaela Nguyen is a personal trainer and the founder of Attachd – comfortable hands-free dog belts.
