Pilates for Pooches | i Love Dogs

Paws-ilates for Pooches

Let’s get “fur-sical!” First came doga, then came doggie bootcamp, and now our fur-legged friends can join us in “Paws-ilates,” or dog pilates.

According to its Facebook page, “Paws-ilates is a program to get you and your pet healthier! Pilates for you with the help of your pet. Engage your love for Fido with a trimmer, fitter you. Walk your dog and do Paws-ilates for the both of you!”

Andrea Metcalf, a nationally recognized fitness expert, media personality and author of “Naked Fitness,” is the creator of “Paws-ilates” and a proud pet parent.

Metcalf writes in her Huffington Post blog, “As the owner of two dogs, I have created Paws-ilates™. It blends spine-strengthening exercises, core toners and some simple lifts with Fido to help you stand taller and spend time with your dog.”

Her 1-year-old Bulldog, Wrigley, loves water, taking baths and showers, as well as playing in the sprinklers. In fact there’s a video of her playing on YouTube.

Ellie, Metcalf’s 6-year-old yellow Lab, prefers to just watch Wrigley splash around and stare at her in wonder. Metcalf mentioned that both of her pooches enjoy working out with her, especially Wrigley.

On her Oprah.com blog, Metcalf introduces three of her exercises, which she recommends you try with a dog that is 25 pounds or less.

Step One is the “Sit, Lean and Reach” — Sit down with your pooch in front of you, holding her with both hands. Then use one arm at a time to stretch back and inhale. Repeat 10-20 times.

Step Two is the “Canine Cross” — While holding your pup and sitting down, rotate your torso from side to side while lifting your leg.

The last step is the “Side Bend Power Leash” — While standing with your pooch to your left and leash in hand, bend your arms to create a circle above your head. Then bend toward your pet and repeat.

Metcalf explains that exercise is such an important part of her life that she tried to find ways to incorporate it into her pets’ lives as well.

“The pet obesity numbers are rising, and we have a responsibility to ourselves and our pets to get them moving. We are all busy and have busy lives, but because pets make our lives better (live longer, reduce stress) we need to give back to them,” Metcalf said.

PHOTOS: Andrea Metcalf

Kara Ogushi

Contributing writer Kara Ogushi is a pet mom to two dogs and five rabbits. When she isn’t writing travel tips for pooches, she’s exploring new ways to share and create media.