There is no such thing as off season for elite athletes! The goals and methods may change throughout the season but the bodies need to stay in a forward motion, with lungs expanding, muscles lengthening and contracting, hearts pounding, joints and ligaments strengthening, and minds exercised.

We are well out of harness training season but still free run on the cool summer mornings with plenty of opportunity for drinks and swimming to keep cool.  This morning on May 28 was a cool 46 F, perfect summer temp for a rompin’ be-bop in the woods. Our typical morning free runs are 3-9 miles depending on temp, humidity, and water availability.

We make it fun for the dogs so they don’t even realize they are training. Chasing birds, rabbits, peeing on trees, jumping and swimming in puddles/streams, and chasing down each other with a little competitiveness helps keep them in great shape. It’s the only way we can tell which dogs that have tremendous drive and forward acceleration and speed. They are so smooth and athletic running at full speed tongue hanging out with a giant smile on their faces it’s a sight to be seen.

Free running releases their minds from the monotony of being hooked into the gangline for seven months of the year and lets dogs be dogs. They enjoy it more than any other activity that we do, even more than eating dinner!

Keep your dogs in good shape year round and you’ll have a better all around dog, dog team, and race results. It’s up to you the head coach, to find creative ways to condition your athletes and stay motivated.