So you want to run with your dog, but you’ve never actually been much of a runner. Before you hit the streets, it’s a good idea to have the basics of running down pat.

Running is a fairly low cost sport. All you really have to buy is a pair of nice running shoes. Don’t run in low quality shoes – it isn’t worth an injury. Get fitted at a specialist running store like Runner’s World.

Take it slow – start by running 10 minutes every other day, or taking walking breaks between your running sessions, and gradually build up speed and distance.

Make sure to drink lots of water each day – it’s important, trust me. I hate drinking water, but if I don’t drink enough during the day I get horrible cramps during my run. Just ensuring that I drink at least 2 liters of water per day helps alleviate cramping during my run.

Find other dog owners to run with. Do you have friends or neighbors who own dogs? Consider running together, it can motivate you to keep going.

Look at your dog. Think of how much better your dog’s life could be if it was in shape and if you didn’t have to worry about your dog getting ill for some sort of weight and fitness-related reason. We all love our dogs, if you didn’t you probably wouldn’t be reading this right now. You can improve both your dog’s and your own way of life just by going for a daily run.