Dogs.
Truly the best creature on our planet.
They are the physical embodiment of love & joy.
I’ve had my own fur ball for almost a year now (best year ever!). Since getting her, I’ve seen how beneficial having a dog can be for your overall health. I’m not just talking as in “emotional health” (which is still important). Rather, from the physical side of things.
More movement
I thought I walked/moved a lot before having a dog but now it’s at a completely new level. Check out my step count averages over the last 2 years👇🏻
In 2022 I averaged ~11k steps per day
In 2023 I averaged ~17k steps per day
My overall training load was relatively the same. The biggest difference…in December 2022 I brought home my dog!
Having a dog forced me to move my body more. More walks, more playing, and more daily movement.
More movement = more calories burned + less aches/pains
More meal structure
Something I noticed right away when getting my dog was how important structure was for her own development. When she was in a predictable routine, she was much easier to deal with.
With this structure, came more consistent meal times. She eats two meals per day (AM/PM) & so I just matched that.
How this helps you
The two biggest struggles I see with people who want to lose weight:
Their total daily movement is low
This results in a lower caloric burn throughout the day, and makes weight loss more difficult.
They have no consistency in meal time/structure
This results in more snacking and a higher caloric intake. Again, making weight loss more difficult.
As I’ve shared…getting a dog solves both of these problems.
So if you’re someone who has the time/energy to bring home a furry friend of your own…it might just be the best thing you do for your health.