15-Year-Old Labrador Mix Shares Beginner Tips for Runners and It’s an Inspiration

Starting a new fitness routine can be daunting, but it's always easier with a non-judgmental friend by your side. Our four-legged companions are perfect for this role, as they don't judge us by our limitations. They're just happy to be with us wherever we go!

If you're still apprehensive about getting started, these tips from a 15-year-old dog might inspire you. Check out this sage advice shared in a video on July 3:

The older you get, the more you realize that age is only a number. Although our bodies might sometimes give away our secrets, the more we push ourselves to keep going, the more youthful we feel. That is the case for Cloudy, a 15-year-old boy who still enjoys taking impressive runs with his mom, Callie (@ callievinsonn ). With his many years of experience, he's sharing some tips for anyone looking to get started.

Related: Dog Mom's Perfect 'Date Night' With Her Senior Lab Is an Absolute Heart-Melter

A Senior Dog's Tips for Beginner Runners

1. Find shoes that fit. The fashionable boy also points out that the shoes should fit you. His happy footwear certainly sets the tone for his style! Let's be honest; sometimes, the best part of starting a new fitness routine is getting a new wardrobe to do it in.
   
   
2. Rest days can help you go even farther. That's a good point! Microscopic tears in our muscles need time to heal; when they do, we're even stronger than before.
   
   
3. It's normal to feel "rungry." Cloudy reveals that eating a bit more is okay if we feel more hungry after a big run. Our canine fitness partners will be especially thrilled to hear this advice.
   
   
4. Be proud of your accomplishments. He advises us to feel good about them, no matter how big or small. That's an excellent point! As long as we're heading in a positive direction, that's all that matters.
   
   
5. Prepare to be embraced by the running community. He cautions us to prepare to be smothered with love and support from our friends. Ha! Hopefully, that only applies to four-legged runners.
   
   
6. Never apologize for your pace. He assures us that there is never a pace that is too slow, and that is so true. Even senior dogs can stay healthy by taking short, slow walks.
   
   
7. When you lose motivation, do it for the days you no longer can . That's wise advice for all aspects of life.
   
   
8. Have fun! The smile on this boy's face shows us he's an expert! After all, you're more likely to stick to something you enjoy than something you don't.

With the summer heat, it's essential to bring water for our four-legged friends and monitor them for signs of heat exhaustion . If you notice heavy panting, drooling, or signs of lethargy, it's time for a break. Taking them out for a run or walk early in the morning or after the sun goes down can also help them stay cool.

There are so many ways in which dogs improve our lives. Notably, our commitment to ensuring they get proper exercise helps to keep us active, too. Even if we aren't running, just taking a walk can help extend their time here with us.