What is CaniX?

As runners we can often get a little board of the 'same old same old' running that we do. Pounding out the concrete only to come home and then find that you have to take the dog out to cool down. Well there may be a solution to this and something that kills 2 birds with one stone. CaniX. CaniX (www.cani-cross.co.uk)

Eh? Whats that I hear all of your cry. Well CaniX is running with your dog. (canine + cross-country = CaniX). Simples!! Note to Ed: there seems to be a lot of animal references in this piece and not all the right breed

CaniX cater for all shapes and sizes, any breed and all fitness levels — canine and human. Humans from the age of seven and dogs from the age of one onwards can enter. At certain events, short courses are set for under elevens to enter on the day (not for competition though).

Previous events have included vision impaired entrants running with a human guide, hearing impaired entrants running with their Hearing Dogs, people who have had a triple heart by pass, 10km/ marathon/ ultra-endurance athletes, to kids, have-a-goes and those that just love to do things with their dogs.

CaniX is a brilliant way to get out in the fresh air and spend time with your dog. You and your dog can enjoy the peace and tranquility of your surroundings and get in shape at the same time with an invigorating workout. Plus you don't have to cool down after a run and get that obligatory post run chill.

There is no handicap for the breed of dog as, regardless of breed, most dogs can run faster than their human team mate. Just check out my Greyhound!!

You don’t need to be super fit, it’s for all levels (again just check my greyhound!!). Take it easy at first and build up slowly, alternate between walk/run. You could enter the 2.5km ‘Have-a-go class’ and when you feel comfortable try the 5km.

No real special equipment or training is needed. Many however choose to harness their dog’s pulling power and chase instinct with a dog running harness, waist belt and line. This is more comfortable for both you and your dog and gives you extra assistance (handy for the hills)! Dogs soon learn the difference between their collar and their running harness – understanding that they can pull with one and not the other. The running harness directs all the pulling power to the dog’s chest and shoulders away from the neck.

So to recap CaniX helps:

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle for you and your dogs.
• Strengthens the bond between you and your dogs.
• Can be enjoyed by all ages, male or female.
• Is a versatile sport that can be practised anywhere.

Why not have a go. If nothing else it will make you run faster, or will it be drag!!