If you're looking for a great way to kick start your New Year fitness resolution – get a dog!

Seriously, there is very positive research linking having a pet and fitness levels. Let's take a look:

Science support
A 12 month study has demonstrated that exercising with pets not only benefits the pet but also gives the pet owner more confidence and motivation to exercise, leading to more weight loss success. The PPet Study was a collaboration between Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago and Hill’s Pet Nutrition and found both people and their pets are more successful at staying with a weight loss program when they exercise together. The study consisted of three groups of overweight participants – a dog only group, a people only group and a dog/owner group. Over the course of the study, participants lost weight and kept it off with pet owners losing an average of 5kgs (approx 5% of their initial body weight). In addition the program retention was significantly better in the dog/owner group.

Regular as clockwork
It seems no matter what breed of your dog they have regular exercise needs. So there’s no better motivation to get you moving everyday than having a loyal friend gaze up at you each morning. Set the pace – depending on the breed of your canine friend, your dog is likely to help you set a brisk pace for your workout.

Stay safe tips
Go For Your Life suggests these tips to ensure the safety of your dog and other people on foot:

• Be considerate of other pedestrians and always keep your dog on its leash. This will also prevent your dog from running off to chase cars, cats or other dogs.
• If you plan to walk in a park, check first to see if dogs are permitted. Most state and national parks and other conservation reserves do not permit dogs.
• Other parks generally permit dog-walking on a leash. Many parks allow dogs off the leash - check with the local council.
• Make sure you take all the appropriate equipment (such as plastic bags and gloves) so that you can clean up after your dog.