Going to the gym or working out with a friend can be more fun than going at it alone. A workout partner often offers emotional and physical support during the routine in addition to extra motivation on those days when you find yourself less inspired to make the trip. Finding a workout partner can be challenging with so many people keeping different schedules these days. If you are like me, I am always looking for the next thing I can do with Rufus, my red smooth miniature dachshund, and I think I found it.

This past Friday, Rufus and I awoke unusually early at 5:30 am to meet up with Thank Dog! Bootcamp team at the Pan Pacific Park 7600 Beverly Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90036. The sun was just peaking over the LA skyline, the grass was wet from the morning dew and there was a slight chill as night tried to turn to day, but by 6:30 am about 10 dogs and their owners slowly filed out of their cars and formed a circle. For the next hour we ran, jumped, squatted, climbed stairs, got our dogs to obey 4 basic commands and enjoyed a real workout alongside of our dogs and fellow man.

I have worked out with a personal trainer, taken regular yoga classes and I have even tried Doga – yoga with your dog which was fun, but a different experience completely. I felt both Rufus and I got a good work out and left the morning with something valuable for both dog and human. The big difference with Thank Dog! is the class is not meant to be a socialization opportunity for your dog. Dogs are not allowed to socialize with each other before or during the class. After the class, owners and dogs are free to do as they wish. Moreover, dogs get a real work out. They run alongside you, climb stairs with you and help you complete relays. There are only two times during the hour long work out when the dog “goes to his place” and practices his stay command while owners do some weight training and sit-ups.

Other notable facts that set this exercise journey above the rest include its diverse cross section of participants and dogs. The humans were all ages and body types and the dogs were a mixture of big, small, aggressive, timid and neutral. As soon as you sign up for a class, whether it is a single class or series, everyone must attend an hour consultation and evaluation with the dog trainer. During the hour orientation participants are taught four basic commands they will use with their dogs during the work out and the trainer will review acceptable leashes, collars and other essentials required for the class.

I truly loved the experience and plan to do it again and as often as I can. Classes are offered weekly and twin co-founders, Jamie and Jill Bowers, say they hope to be offer alternate locations in the greater Los Angeles area over time. The twins are certificated dog trainers while Todd Collins is a certificated personal trainer and together they make an excellent team dedicated to our health and obedience. The team even offers in-home dog training and private bootcamp to interested folks.

It is almost the end of January. If it was one of your New Year’s resolutions to be more active with your dog or to get fit this is your chance. Check them out today!
 

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