Inspire
CANICROSS TRAINING: HOW TO GET STARTED AND THE BENEFITS OF RUNNING WITH YOUR DOG
If running with your dog sounds better than running on your own (or with other humans), keep reading.
It almost seems too good to be true, doesn’t it? A fitness activity that strengthens your bond with your furry friend. It’s all real; Canicross training is a fun way to build or maintain your fitness.
Here’s everything you need to know, from how to get started with Canicross and everything every runner and their dog needs in their Canicross kit. Let’s lace up and get all four paws in position for perhaps the most interesting and rewarding run of them all.
WHAT IS CANICROSS?
A mixture of ‘canine’ and ‘cross country’, Canicross involves running, whilst having your dog attached to you by a bungee cord. The idea being, that you run together as a team – you at the back, calling out directions; your (hopefully) faithful four-legged friend leading the way up front. Or, that’s the aim. It may take a little training before your companion learns how it’s done.
Canicross originally took off in Europe amongst the dog mushing (sledding) community. Whilst mushing traditionally takes place in snow, off-season training meant replacing the sledding element with running.
This has become more than an off-season training method and is now enjoyed by many as a sport in itself. It’s sometimes known as ‘urban mushing’.
HOW TO GET STARTED IN CANICROSS
As with any sport, it’s important to start slow and build up gradually. Building the pace too soon risks putting your, and your furry pal’s, body under stress and causing injury. So, if you’re new to the sport, you could begin with Canitrekking — go for a trek with your dog, swapping the collar and lead for a Canicross belt, bungee line, and dog harness. This will get you and your training partner used to using the equipment.
Once you’re ready to run, try mixing walking with short bursts of running, initially. Aim to run for around 50 to 100 metres, building your distance and pace and encouraging your dog to pull into the harness.
This is the perfect time to select and start using your cues. It doesn’t matter which cues you use; just be sure to keep using the same ones. Some Canicross runners adopt traditional mushing cues. Here are a few handy ones you may want to use.
5 MUSHING CUES TO USE IN CANICROSS TRAINING
- Gee = turn right
- Haw = turn left
- Whoah = stop
- Easy = slow down
- On by = ignore the upcoming distraction and keep going
WHAT DO YOU NEED FOR CANICROSS?
So, what do you need in your Canicross kit? You’ll want to invest in a Canicross set that includes a harness for your dog, a belt for you, and a bungee line to safely connect you both. The bungee line is an important element, as it acts as a shock absorber between you and your dog.
Make sure you buy a dog harness that’s specially designed for running. A basic dog walking harness could cause issues with breathing, or damage your dog’s shoulders. Of course, you’ll need your usual running equipment, too - trainers, a water bottle… all the essentials.
CANICROSS TRAINING TIPS
We’ve rounded up some Canicross training ideas to help keep you and your dog engaged and safe, whilst continuing to build that all-important bond, which lies at the heart of this activity.
- Join a virtual Canicross challenge. Why not make it official and sign up for a virtual challenge? Online challenges usually offer incentives to spur you on, such as a medal at the end, and/or a charity donation. The DogFit Virtual Canicross Challenge lets you choose a Canicross 5k, 10k or half marathon and the entrance fee goes towards a charity. Plus, once completed, you’ll scoop up a medal for you and a rosette for your furry friend.
- Make your Canicross training fun. Remember, Canicross is all about building upon your bond with your dog, so have fun together. Search for different trails and don’t be afraid to switch-up your terrain, routes and scenery. Always make sure the terrain you’re running on is comfortable for your dog’s paws and joints.
- Strengthen your core. Having a dog pulling forward from your waist whilst running, demands a strong core. Leg raises, rollouts and planks will help to get your core in tip-top Canicross condition.
- Rest days. t’s important for us to avoid overtraining and the same goes for your dog. Spend your rest days building your bond by teaching your canine companion a new trick, going for walks or simply just relaxing.
- Choose a well-fitting harness. A key part of Canicross is encouraging your pet to push forward in the harness. To achieve this safely and effectively, it’s important that the harness fits comfortably. Make sure your dog can push forward, without his or her natural movement being restricted.
CANICROSS TIPS FOR RESPONSIBLE DOG OWNERS
From labradors to huskies, any healthy dog who enjoys running can take part in Canicross training, though they need to be at least 12 months old. Puppies’ joints need to have fully developed before putting them under any strain during exercise. If you have any concerns or questions, it’s always best to check with the vet.
The rise of social running: Which are the best clubs to join and what are the benefits?
It’s finally summer in the UK, which means it’s time to close the laptop and head out for that balmy evening run with your friends. To celebrate the launch of the new Brooks Ghost 16 - your perfect summer training partner - we are taking a look at the rise of running clubs, how running has become the new after-work drinks, and how run clubs can really level-up your social schedule this summer.
It’s finally summer in the UK, which means it’s time to close the laptop and head out for that balmy evening run with your friends. To celebrate the launch of the new Brooks Ghost 16 - your perfect summer training partner - we are taking a look at the rise of running clubs, how running has become the new after-work drinks, and how run clubs can really level-up your social schedule this summer. With the help of three Brooks Running Collective members – Rachel, Jeric and Andrew – we explore how running groups have transformed their lives. Plus, we highlight some of the UK-based groups you really need to check out!
Group running nurtures strong friendships and thriving social lives
Brooks Running Collective member, Rachel, tells us that running plays a key role in her social life. "I’ve met so many great people through group running. My favourite event was an ultra I trained for and ran with a friend. All those miles we put in together led to my training partner becoming one of my closest friends", she says.
Similarly to Rachel, Jeric explains how running has become a cornerstone of his social life. “It gives me that sense of belonging. We tend to motivate each other to go further”. Why choose between training or a social life when it turns out we can have it all?
How to spot a welcoming run club
A run club should make you feel comfortable and help to keep you motivated, regardless of your experience with running. There are clubs where the run is the least important part, the sense of community and exploration is what keeps people coming back. Andrew, who coaches a large running community, says that unlike traditional athletics clubs, social run clubs focus more on experiences than performances.
Jeric takes a unique approach within his own running community. He organises Strava Art runs, which are designed to motivate runners creatively, by encouraging them to create cool drawings with their GPS trackers along the route. "My Strava Art runs are centred around easier paces and socialising. This encourages everyone to feel comfortable enough to join in the fun while meeting fellow runners”. Make sure you follow Brooks Running Collective member Jeric so you can get involved with his next artwork!
Finding the right running group for you
With so many run club options out there, what’s the key to finding one that’s right for you? Rachel advises keeping an eye out for a running crew with similar goals to yours. “Parkrun is a great place to start for meeting local runners, especially if you’re new to the area”. Outside of Parkrun, there are Run Clubs based out of coffee shops, studios and social hubs. RunLimited, based in East London, was recently set up to provide a hub for runners in an area awash with new runners and focuses on bringing together the community around key races, such as the London Marathon and Hackney Half.
How to get started
We’ve put together some of our favourite running clubs from across the UK, ones that do things differently, have their own niches, and ones that bring together all four corners or the running community.
Let’s Do This Run Club - London
Yes this is a shameless plug for our very own run club! A monthly run club that brings together the London running scene and showcases a variety of brands including Brooks, Shokz, Huel and Lucky Saint. - https://www.instagram.com/letsdothis.com_/
Black Girls Do Run - London (and online)
BGDRUK is both an online and in-person community platform to show that everyday regular black women do and can run. Our goal for the community is to motivate more UK based black women to run. https://www.instagram.com/blackgirlsdorunuk/
Snappy Runners - Manchester
EST in 2022, Snappy Runners is a running community based out of Ancoats in Manchester. They run to bring people together and build a stronger community through the power of running. More than just a club, their goal is to form relationships and connections that extend far beyond the pavements we run on. - https://www.instagram.com/snappy_runners/
Friday Night Lights - London & Manchester
“Don't get it twisted. It's not a race. We're not a club. We're not training or coaching. We're just running. For fun. Don't mistake that vibe”, is how they describe themselves. The self-confessed “only guilt free night out in London”, this is where the party is at. - https://www.instagram.com/fridaynightlights.run/ & https://www.instagram.com/fridaynightlights.run.north/
ROCUP - Birmingham
ROCUP is more than just a Birmingham Run Club; it's a vibrant community built on the mentality of Rising Over Challenges. Founded by Rudy O’Halloran, ROCUP has grown from a humble beginning to become the littest run club in Birmingham, bringing together people from all walks of life through the power of running. - https://www.instagram.com/rocup__/
We Run Edinburgh - Edinburgh
Founder Lynette set up We Run, a women’s only run club, to motivate other women to run, and to form a group that felt safe enough to run the streets of Edinburgh, which before felt like they were off-limits for her. - https://www.instagram.com/werunedinburgh
We Run - Belfast
A collective connected by a passion for exploration, and embracing the sights and sounds that Belfast has to offer. It’s not about who finishes first or last, it’s all about finishing together. - https://www.instagram.com/werunbelfast/
Energise Your Autumn Running Routine: 6 Tips to Keep You Moving
As autumn sets in, the cooler weather and shorter days can make it harder to stay motivated, but with the right approach, this season can be one of your most energised yet! The shift in weather provides a chance to refresh your running routine and explore new ways to stay on track with your goals. Whether it’s adjusting your mindset, changing your gear, or tweaking your routes, embracing the seasonal transition can help you maintain your progress and even find renewed motivation.
Energise Your Autumn Running Routine: 6 Tips to Keep You Moving
As autumn sets in, the cooler weather and shorter days can make it harder to stay motivated. But with the right approach, this season can be one of your most energised yet! Whether it’s adjusting your mindset, changing your gear, or tweaking your routes, embracing the seasonal transition can help you maintain your progress and even find renewed motivation.
Our team has compiled six essential tips to help you keep your training going strong as autumn unfolds. And as you gear up for those cooler runs, the right shoes will make all the difference. That’s where the Brooks Glycerin Max comes in—with its cushioning and comfort, it’s designed to keep you energised through every mile, no matter what the season brings.
1. Comfort is key
Autumn mornings can be crisp, while afternoons might warm up, meaning that having the right kit is essential. With these transitional times, layering is key, so it’s good to invest in lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics to stay dry and warm without overheating. A good tip is to start your run feeling slightly cool—your body will heat up quickly. Especially here in the UK it is important to incorporate a water-resistant outer layer.
Ensuring you have the right kit is going to make all the difference, which is why picking a shoe like the Brooks Glycerin Max - which provides cushioning and support to match your seasonal layers - helps you stay comfortable as you log your miles.
2. Mix in cross-training
Autumn is a great time to introduce cross-training into your routine. Activities like cycling/spinning, swimming, or strength training can complement your runs and keep your fitness level high while reducing the risk of injury. Plus, cross-training can help you recharge mentally, giving your body a break from repetitive pounding of the pavement, while keeping your energy reserves topped up.
3. Change up your route
With the changing season comes a change in scenery - take advantage of it! Exploring new routes can not only keep your runs exciting but also help prevent burnout. Whether it’s running through leafy parks, hitting the trails or taking to new street-lit roads in your neighbourhood, mixing up your routine can reignite your motivation. Plus, varying terrain is a great way to build strength and endurance. Our team has compiled a list of some of our favourite routes for you to try out!
4. Prepare for less daylight
As daylight hours shrink, you may need to adjust your running schedule. If you’re running early in the morning or after work, ensure you have the right gear. Reflective clothing and headlamps are a must for staying visible and safe. Planning ahead can prevent you from skipping runs when the light fades so make sure you schedule in your runs for a time that works for you.
5. Focus on your why
When motivation wanes as the days get darker, remind yourself why you run. Whether it’s stress relief, fitness goals, or the joy of hitting the trails, staying connected to your 'why' is crucial. Keep a running journal or log to reflect on your progress and accomplishments. This helps you stay focused, and on those tougher days, it gives you a reason to lace up and head out the door.
Energise your autumn with Brooks Glycerin Max
Autumn doesn’t have to slow you down—by following these tips, you’ll stay on track with your goals and enjoy every mile. And with the Brooks Glycerin Max, you’ll have 'Endless Energy' at your feet, helping you navigate cooler temperatures and changing conditions with ease. Keep pushing forward, and let this autumn be your most energised season yet!
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