Latest research – getting a dog can get you fit

With estimates that only one in 10 Australians over the age of 50 exercise enough to gain any cardiovascular benefit , new research from the School of Population Health at the University of Western Australia may point the way to achieving a more active lifestyle.

The research, published in the March edition of the International Journal of Behavioural Nutrition and Physical Activity, shows that people who acquired a dog increased their recreational walking by 48 minutes per week compared with an increase of only 12 minutes per week for people who did not acquire a dog during the period of the study.

“This means that there is a direct link between getting a dog and increasing the amount of walking you do, and clearly shows that dogs have a significant role in motivating their owners to walk more,” says Hayley Cutt, principal author of the research.

“Moderate exercise, such as walking, has proven health benefits for people of all ages but it is especially important for older people as it is a low impact, no cost option that has a lot of health benefits,” says Mr Trevor Shilton, Manager of Physical Activity, National Heart Foundation.

“Walking is good for cardiovascular health, bone density, joint health and the maintenance of healthy weight levels.

“Being active with our pets can also have social and mental health benefits. Walking is a great way to clear your head of the worries of the day and enjoy the company of others, including our pets. Improved social support is linked with reduced heart disease, and walking the dog can be a great way to improve our interaction with others and with our neighborhood.

“This research supports the idea that it’s never too late to be active. Even among those who have not been active for some years, taking up a new walking program can bring very rapid improvements to your health. Exercise also plays an important role in maintaining muscle and bone mass and our ability to function independently as we get older,” said Mr Shilton.

“Our bodies respond well to exercise, whatever our age, and it is clear that we are more motivated to go for a walk if we have a four-legged friend just waiting for the chance to get out and stretch his or her legs,” he added.