Tuesday, May 18, 2010

A Standing Date

Hola Bloggies:

I know there are lots of couples out there who have a standing “date night.” As for me, I have a standing Monday afternoon date with a pack of puppies and their owners!

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Why you ask? Well because it gets me to exercise in a different way – not to mention it’s great for my puppy, Daisy!

Part of leading a physically fit lifestyle is finding a way to enjoy healthful activities without having to don exercise gear and heading to the gym. If you’re like the Fiancé you may not be a fan of cardio machines but you may absolutely relish the thought of a multi-hour hike. That’s where our standing date comes into play!

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On our weekly hikes we take to the local community forest. It’s called that but really it’s more than a forest – it’s a giant swath of land encompassing mountains, meadows, and lakes. There is nothing more beautiful than hiking for (usually) an hour and a half to two hours through beautiful mountain scenery.

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By the time we’re done the puppies are suitably tired (a tired dog is a good dog) and I can honestly say I’ve had a great workout too. Sure, it’s not running on a treadmill of lifting weights but I’ve gotten my heart rate up and definitely worked some muscles along the way!

And the best part? Amidst the laughter, frolicking, and chatting, I scarcely noticed I was working out!

What non-gym physical activities do you do? Any hikes in your neck of the woods? Would you rather be in a gym than outdoors?

6 comments:

Nienke at Revel said...

Oh goodness these dogs are killing me - I have puppy fever pretty bad lately and think it is high time I get myself one to get non-gym workouts with :)

Your community forest looks incredibly beautiful!

Marianne (frenchfriestoflaxseeds) said...

I'm a big fan of going for walks and hikes. It's just so nice to get out and enjoy your surroundings. And there are lots of places to go, even around the city here - you just have to know about them :)

Unknown said...

such cute pictures!!! :) the doggies are cutie pies!!! :)

Amber said...

It's so beautiful there! I LOVE B.C.!!

That looks so fun - I adore hiking and can't wait till I have a dog to take on hikes and runs with me!

Southbaygirl said...

I love doggie activities!! They are the best! And I cant stand working out in a gym!!! Hate it! Everything must be outside-even if it's cold and raining!

A Toronto girl out West said...

Nienke,

lol A puppy is wonderful!!! Does your condo allow them?


Marianne,

I totally agree there are great hikes in the Van area. As far as where I live now - no one tells you about the good hikes. So they're sometimes hard to discover.


Jessica,

Gracias! :o)


Amber,

Are you thinking of getting one anytime soon?


Southbaygirl,

You must be related to the Fiance! He'll hike in all but the most bitter of winter days. As long as he's not suffering from frostbite he's liable to go on a hike! lol