Running Partners

Admittedly, this post will be a little bit about fitness, but mostly about running with puppies....

I have never really liked running with a partner. I know a lot of people like it, but I just could never get into it. I rather like exercising by myself. I love days when the track and weight room are empty. Just me 'n the music is my preferred mode.

I make an exception however for my two favourite running partners: Emmy (also known as E-bear, little bear, fluffy britches, wiggle butt) and Qubit  (known simply as "Q",  lil-Q, Q-bibs, honey Q Q.)

Best running partner #1

Best Running Partner #2

Some of my favourite things about running with these two are:

• I pick whatever pace I want and they are equally happy with all of them (except for when we spot a squirrel fatefully crossing our path and then I can't run fast enough for them).
• We can run whenever I want. They need no warning, no time to get ready, they just are happy to go.
• They don't care where we run. They loves trails, loops around the house, the sidewalk, the streets, anywhere.
• They are happy, truly happy to be outside and running. The looks on their faces (which unfortunately I couldn't capture while running) are just awesome. Every once in a while they look up at me and I can tell they are having the time of their life.
• Runs with them are always a bit more interesting because of neighborhood dogs, birds, squirrels, mailmen/mailwomen etc. They think everything is exciting, and it's a bit contagious!
• They keep me company, without demanding I talk to them. I can wear my headphone if I like, and it doesn't bother them.
• They keep me safe. I feel a lot safer running with dogs when I'm out by myself and I'm positive they feel as though they are fighting for my life when they bark back at the chubby beagle who comes charging down the neighbors' driveway towards us.
• I have gotten better at fartlek runs. This is basically how a dog naturally runs.

"I barely made it through the door I'm so exhausted!"

"I'm not tired!"

And there are only a few drawbacks:

• Typically running partners don't poop on the grass next to where you are running. Emmy is fantastic at waiting until we are the farthest point away from the house before she does this. 
• Needing to stop and smell things from time to time. (Them, not me.) Typically they are pretty good about this, but sometimes "we" get off track.

Good runners deserve biscuits post-run...and pre-run...and always!!

The "cookie jar"

Q: Ohhhh I can't wait any longer!
Em: Geez settle down...they're just cookies.

If you have a dog, I recommend trying to work out with them once in a while. It's so fun for both them and you. It really makes exercise seem more like a game than a chore, and who doesn't need that once in a while?

"YESSS. My life is complete!"

"Ok, I guess I'm excited now..."