Training Movement Like Training a Dog
Training Movement Like Training a Dog
TLDR
Applying dog-training strategies to our movement routines can make us more aware, patient, efficient, and adaptable. By treating ourselves to rewards, practicing self-control, and taking short, focused sessions, we build a stronger mind-body connection and improve overall physical resilience. The takeaway? Next time you see a dog mastering a trick, take notes—your own movements might just benefit from a little “paws-on” approach.
Stibens Jimenez
Intro
The Surprising Parallels
Training a dog can feel a lot like training ourselves when it comes to movement behavior. You’re teaching them attention, patience, and control—principles that translate surprisingly well to human movement. So, what if we approached our movement habits with the same techniques? By applying these “dog training” strategies to our own routines, we might unlock some powerful, lesser-known benefits.
Five Benefits of Training Movement with Dog-Like Techniques
Enhanced Body Awareness: Just like dogs learning to sit, stay, or heel, training your own movement through focus brings an increased awareness of each body part and how it moves. This awareness can actually strengthen the neural pathways that control motor skills, leading to better balance and coordination.
Better Patience and Endurance: Ever tried teaching a dog a new trick? It takes patience—on both ends! Practicing movement control also cultivates patience and resilience. The more time we take to practice small, controlled movements, the more endurance we build, which helps our nervous system regulate movement under pressure.
Stronger Mind-Body Connection: Dogs respond to training when they feel connected to you, and it’s the same with our bodies. Building this connection makes us less likely to overdo it or get injured, as we start sensing when something is “off” or when we’re pushing too hard.
Smoother, More Efficient Movements: Just as a dog learns efficiency in movements (saving energy while keeping pace), we, too, can learn to use only the muscles we need. Over time, this leads to smoother movements, reducing strain and conserving energy, especially during repetitive tasks.
Increased Ability to Adapt Under Stress: When we practice staying calm and focused on movement patterns, we’re less likely to react with tension. The result? Our bodies respond to stress with improved flexibility and ease, just like a well-trained dog that remains calm amid distractions.
Five Techniques to Train Yourself Like a Dog (With a Dash of Humor)
Find Your “Treats”: Every dog trainer knows that treats are key. What’s your “treat”? Whether it’s music, the outdoors, or a satisfying stretch, find what makes moving rewarding and sprinkle it throughout your routine. Treats keep us coming back!
Use Short, Focused Sessions: Just as short sessions keep dogs engaged, break your training into manageable bursts. Working on fine-tuning your movements for just 5-10 minutes can do wonders for muscle memory without tiring you out. Consistency beats length here!
Set Clear Cues and Signals: Dogs respond to cues like “sit” or “stay,” and our brains respond to cues as well. Use a signal to remind yourself to correct posture or focus on breathing. With time, this internal “cue” will prompt better form even without conscious effort.
Practice Self-Control Exercises: Dogs master self-control with time, and so can we. Try exercises that slow you down, like moving through a balance drill extra slowly. Practicing control over small movements builds the muscle memory and patience needed to avoid rushing—and injuries.
Reward Small Wins: Training takes time, so celebrate each milestone. Did you keep a steady posture all week? Reward yourself! Just like dogs thrive on encouragement, reinforcing each small victory builds motivation, keeps things positive, and helps keep up the habit.
Lesson Learned
Turns out, training movement is just like training a dog—it’s all about patience, rewards, and focus. Find your treats, celebrate small wins, and don’t be afraid to sit, stay, and perfect each move. The result? A happier, more connected mind and body!
Stibens Jimenez
Preventative Health Specialist and Educator
With over 15 years of experience in preventive health and ergonomics, Stibens Jimenez specializes in transforming movement science into practical strategies for better living. Passionate about improving human movement, Stibens’ educates with a creative, accessible approach. Outside of work, Stibens enjoys staying active through running, cycling, and playing the drums.
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