Building Better Athletes...because our dogs deserve it.
Course developed and taught by Tara Monahan OCT CPCFT SCMT
This is the sister course to Intro to Structure and Gait Analysis, and the follow up course for Building Strong Foundations. Dogs in this course should be older than 18 months, injury-free, have a solid foundation in conditioning, and be comfortable working at an intermediate/advanced level. Course topics include warm ups and cool downs, an introduction to evaluating structure and gait (not as in depth as the Intro to Structure and Gait course - we'll be skimming the surface), some quick check methods of recognizing structure or gait concerns, and how to create a conditioning plan. Course homework will focus on conditioning, but there will occasionally be the opportunity to extend your understanding of the lessons through the homework as well. This is a 6 week course, with feedback available for 12 weeks.
What are the benefits of taking this course?
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Improve your understanding of anatomy, structure, and gait.
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Learn why and how to properly warm up and cool down your dog.
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Understand how science can help us make better choices for our dogs.
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Improve your dog’s strength, balance, proprioception, and flexibility.
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Create a conditioning plan for your dog, and have the confidence to change and adapt it as necessary.
FAQs
How long is this course?
There will be six weeks of detailed, scaffolded instruction with feedback, and 12 weeks total access to all materials and online feedback.
What equipment is required?
Recommended equipment includes:
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2 wedges
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2 level stable surfaces (feed pot, bricks, balance pads will work fine)
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2 level unstable surfaces (fitbones/discs/BISkit etc)
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a balance beam (a 2 x 4 or 4 x 4 can work just as well),
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an unstable surface long enough for your dog to lie down comfortably on (ie. a peanut, infinity, air mattress),
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a solid surface, long enough for your dog to lie on (at a minimum) that can be angled. If you are in a sunny climate and have access to a slope – that will work well.
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paw pods
Improvisation is encouraged – a mattress can replace an infinity, pucks can replace paw pods…take a look at what you have around your house, and email if you have questions or need suggestions.