Running With Makoto

Hey everyone,

In a few weeks, Alex will participate in the annual government charity (GCWCC) 5km run.  To prepare for this, we have started to do a weekly 5km run.  Although Alex's goal isn't to run with a fast time (~25 minute pace estimated), he wants to be comfortable during the run.

Since we have a dog (Makoto; or Mak, for short), we wanted to include him in our training.  He normally gets daily walks of 5-10km.  Thus, we weren't worried about the distance, although we weren't sure if he would be able to maintain the pace...

Mak

We need not have worried.  We went for a 6km run the other day and he was leading the way throughout.  There were several moments of acceleration and sprinting, as he tried to take off to chase squirrels.  With a bit of correction ("Leave it!"), we kept him on track. 

Alex and Mak on the 6km training run

All in all, he was a good running companion.  He definitely enjoyed himself and watching his enthusiasm gave us a boost too.  He has so much energy - he finished the 6km run with plenty in reserve.  It didn't tire him out, at all!

Walking and running outside with Mak is always a treat - we get fresh air, some vitamin D, and finish feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.  He is also a perfect partner for us, since he is always eager and willing to go (no complaints about exercising from him!).

We look forward to our upcoming runs in the next few weeks, as well as the charity run in October.  Not only is the run for a good cause, but it helps us cross-train and incorporate some runs with Mak.  Now let's hope for decent Fall weather so that we can all enjoy the rest of the season before Winter's arrival!

- Tannys & Alex