Flying Pupstars Fitness & Conditioning

15/04/2025

Well done guys! Some great performances.

You may well recognise some of these from previous conditioning posts.

Looking forward to continuing to work with the dogs and also supporting other Flyball teams in their preparation to in the run up to both Flyball association championships later in the year.

Big thank you to livewiresflyball for yesterdays racing.
We all had a great time and we really appreciate yours and the judges patience while we managed the clashes we had. Especially when Potter had a wobble on the first race and you waited for us to sort it 🧡

Raptors are adjusting to the new season, getting the dogs race fit and blending in the new dogs but it’s been done with lots of fun, and snacks 😬

Yesterday our baby dogs really shone and showed us an exciting future

🚀 Blast entered full racing and was a super star, sitting comfortably in the 3.5s and not even a flicker to leave the lane 👌🏻

🦅 Ajax debuted in to league and was the perfect well behaved boy. Despite only just transferring to the ball he had a pretty good carry rate 🙌🏻

🐛 Bug stepped in the ring for the first time out of PC and did a little league singles. He handled it well and set a training Pb of 3.69 (with the fake ball so we aren’t sure if we are gonna let Reece have this 🤷🏻‍♀️)

🌍 Gaia run her first full time space in an open team and again not a flicker of leaving her lane. She also decided to make that £50 bet with Reece a little harder and give us a new Pb of 3.62 💰 but she’s going to have to step that pace up 😂

🧙🏻‍♀️ Revena stepped in to the ring (supported by the oldies) for little league. No instructive thoughts won and she was a very good girl! Taking it all in her stride and doing a 3.89 🙌🏻

Lots of work for us to do to get dogs settled into the season but it’s going to be exciting when we do!

Thank you to our sponsors Pawer Water

11/04/2025

Canine conditioning can absolutely be done almost anywhere — it’s super versatile and doesn’t require a fancy facility. The goal is to build strength, balance, flexibility, and body awareness amongst other fitness elements, which you can target in all kinds of environments.

Here’s a breakdown of where you can do it, with examples of why it works.

1. At Home

Why it works: Safe, familiar, and easy to stay consistent.

Equipment examples: Broom sticks, pool noodles, steps/stairs.


2. In the Backyard or Garden

Why it works: More space and natural distractions.

Equipment examples: Cones or plant pots, steps, hills.


3. On Walks

Why it works: Real-world conditioning with varying terrain.

Examples:
• Walking on curbs or narrow paths, rocks, benches.

4. At the Park

Why it works: Variety of surfaces, obstacles, and distractions.

Examples:
• Use logs, picnic tables, or large rocks, trees, posts.

5. In a Canine Conditioning Class

Why it works: Professional guidance, equipment, and safe progression.

Examples: Poles, cones, platforms, individualised programs. 1:1s or group sessions.

Want a conditioning routine for a beginner dog or sport dog? Or a checklist of gear that’s useful but cheap?

Message the page for more for more information.

Flying Pupstars Fitness & Conditioning, Canine Conditioning Academy.
Special thanks to Raptors Flyball for showing some different examples of where they do their conditioning.

07/04/2025

Teaching your dog to stand stay in a square position has several benefits, both for their physical well-being and practical situations like vet visits and dog shows:

1. Improved Balance and Posture:
• The square position, where the dog’s legs are evenly spaced and aligned, encourages a balanced stance. This improves muscle tone and coordination by encouraging the dog to engage its core muscles and distribute weight evenly across all four limbs.
• This stance helps dogs with joint health and can be beneficial for those with mobility issues or older dogs that need support for balance and stability.

2. Better for Vet Visits (Weighing Scales):
• When dogs are taught to stand stay in a square position, it makes the weighing process smoother and more accurate. The dog is more likely to remain still, ensuring an accurate reading on the scales.
• The square stance minimizes shifting or stepping off the scale, making the experience less stressful for the dog and allowing for precise measurements of weight.

3. Enhances Performance in Dog Shows:
• In dog shows, the square stance is often required in the ring to demonstrate a dog’s proper conformation. Judges look for a dog to stand in a way that shows off its structure, and a well-practiced square position highlights the dog’s overall appearance.
• Dogs that are accustomed to standing squarely will be more poised and composed during the judging, making a better impression on the judge. Consistency in this stance can also give a competitive edge in the show ring.

4. Strengthens the Bond Between Dog and Handler:
• Teaching a dog to hold a position like the square stance involves communication, trust, and consistency. This can deepen the bond between the dog and its handler, as the dog learns to rely on commands and feedback.

Overall, teaching your dog to stand stay in a square position promotes good health, ease of care, and can even enhance their performance in dog-related activities.

Message the page for current availability for 1:1 and small group conditioning sessions. Insured and Canine Conditioning Academy licensed.

Building up the strength of your dogs core and overall condition to improve that all important stand.

25/03/2025

🐾 April 1:1 Appointment Availability 🐾

Get personalized attention with our 1:1 sessions in April! Perfect for dogs just starting out their conditioning, or for existing academy clients who want to fine-tune an exercise or focus on specific areas of training. We can use them as assessment sessions too!

📅 Available Dates:
• Tuesday, 1st April - Evening
• Tuesday, 8th April - Evening
• Tuesday, 29th April - Evening

- Saturday 5th April - Afternoon from 12.30
- Saturday 12th April - Afternoon from 12.30

Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to improve, these sessions are tailored just for you and your dog.

Book your spot today and set your dog up for success! 🐶

25/03/2025

So pleased to see how Ajax is doing in his chosen sport.

Ajax has been working on a conditioning plan set from Flying Pupstars Fitness & Conditioning alongside other canine professionals to make sure he stays in tip top conditioning. Looking forward to seeing what this boy can do for his owner. His future in Flyball looks very exciting. 🎉

10/03/2025

Get Your Dog Ready for Crufts 2026 qualifiers : The Importance of Fitness and Conditioning

Are you aiming for a spot at Crufts? To give your dog the best chance, fitness and conditioning are key! A well-conditioned dog isn’t just healthier, but also has the stamina and agility to excel in the competition ring (whatever the discipline). Here’s why fitness and conditioning matter for your dog’s success:

Benefits of Fitness and Conditioning:
1. Improved Stamina: Regular fitness training helps build your dog’s endurance, making sure they’re not only prepared for the event but can perform their best throughout the day.
2. Better Agility: Conditioning exercises help increase coordination, balance, and quick reflexes—critical skills for many Crufts events like agility, obedience, and working trials.
3. Healthier Joints and Muscles: Conditioning supports muscle tone, reduces the risk of injury, and improves joint mobility, ensuring your dog is strong and injury-free as they perform.
4. Mental Focus: Physical activity enhances mental stimulation, reducing anxiety and keeping your dog sharp and focused during performances.
5. Confidence Boost: A fit and conditioned dog feels more confident, which can be seen in their poise and behavior during competition.

Tailored Fitness Plans:

Whether it’s for showing, Obedience, Heelwork to Music, Agility, Flyball or any of the other amazing displays of canine disciplines, we can create a personalized plan that suits your dog’s breed, age, and fitness level.

Get your dog Crufts-ready with a tailored fitness and conditioning program that boosts performance and promotes overall health. Start today and watch your dog shine in the competition ring!

Contact us now and take the first step toward Crufts success!

07/03/2025

Condition and fitness are crucial for dogs involved in obedience training for several reasons:

1. Endurance and Stamina: Dogs that are physically fit can perform longer and with more consistency. Obedience training often involves repetitive exercises, and a dog with good fitness levels will maintain focus and energy throughout, reducing fatigue or distractions.

2. Focus and Mental Clarity: Physical fitness contributes to mental sharpness. A dog in good condition is more likely to stay attentive, engaged, and responsive to commands during training sessions, leading to quicker learning and more effective obedience.

3. Posture and Precision: Dogs with strong muscles and good overall health are better able to maintain proper posture and execute commands with precision. Tasks like sitting, staying, and heeling require control and muscle strength, which are enhanced by fitness.

4. Health and Longevity: Regular exercise and conditioning reduce the risk of injury, arthritis, or obesity, which could impair a dog’s ability to perform obedience tasks. Maintaining a healthy weight and fitness level also ensures the dog remains active and able to participate in obedience trials or competitions for longer periods.

5. Motivation and Positive Reinforcement: Dogs with a proper fitness routine often enjoy physical activity, which can be integrated into their obedience training. Physical exercises can be used as rewards, which motivates them and strengthens the bond between the dog and handler.

In short, a well-conditioned and fit dog is better equipped to handle the physical and mental demands of obedience training, leading to faster progress, fewer injuries, and a stronger bond with their handler.

My conditioning programmes can be geared towards different lifestyles from pets to different disciplines and they are individualised for each dog.

Licensed Canine Conditioning Academy Coach and Workshop Instructor

02/03/2025

Fascia is a connective tissue in the body that forms a continuous network around muscles, bones, nerves, and organs. It’s a dense, fibrous structure that helps to support and protect these structures. Fascia is composed mainly of collagen and elastin fibers, giving it strength and flexibility.

Its importance lies in several functions:
1. Structural Support: It helps hold the body together, maintaining posture and stability.
2. Movement: Fascia allows muscles to slide and glide smoothly over each other, facilitating movement and flexibility.
3. Protection: It acts as a protective barrier, reducing friction between muscles and bones and absorbing shock.
4. Communication: Fascia contains nerve endings and plays a role in how the body senses and responds to movement.

When fascia becomes tight or damaged, it can lead to pain, reduced range of motion, and other issues, which is why maintaining its health is important.

Keep an eye out for any unusually ways your dogs coat is laying which could be an indication of the tissue getting tight or other issues your dog may be experiencing.

28/02/2025

Looking for personalized dog fitness and conditioning? Join my 1:1 sessions, small group classes, or Dog Club Conditioning sessions! As a licensed canine conditioning academy coach, I specialize in helping dogs improve strength, mobility, and overall well-being. Whether you’re looking to enhance your dog’s athleticism or ensure they stay in top shape, these tailored sessions will meet your dog’s needs. Fully insured for your peace of mind. Let’s help your dog thrive—contact me to schedule today!

26/02/2025

Rest is crucial when exercising for several reasons:
1. Muscle Recovery and Growth: During exercise, especially strength training, muscles experience small tears. Rest allows these muscles to repair and rebuild, which leads to growth and increased strength.
2. Prevents Overtraining: Without proper rest, the body can become fatigued and overtrained, leading to decreased performance, injury, or burnout.
3. Energy Replenishment: Rest allows the body to restore glycogen stores in muscles, which is essential for energy during your next workout.
4. Injury Prevention: Continuous exercise without adequate rest increases the risk of overuse injuries. Proper recovery helps maintain joint health and prevent strain.
5. Mental Health: Rest can also provide mental recovery, reducing stress and promoting a positive attitude toward training.

In short, rest helps you maximize the benefits of exercise, prevents harm, and keeps you feeling good physically and mentally.

18/02/2025

A great video from Canine Conditioning Academy regarding the importance of correct form when completing exercises.

Using correct form when doing exercises with dogs is crucial for several reasons:

1. Correct muscle engagement.

2. Making sure the exercise is actually targeting the specific area.

3. Balance and stability development/improvements.

4. Making sure there is even load distribution within muscles and limbs.

5. Injury prevention.

6. Supports Long-Term Health: Just like a good workout routine helps humans stay healthy, correct form helps dogs maintain their strength, mobility, and overall well-being over time.

Proper technique is key to making sure the exercise benefits both you and your dog while minimizing any risks.

As part of the workshops, 1:1’s and group sessions I will go through correct form of all the exercises and encourage people to contact me if there is anything they are unsure of. I also offer video analysis to be able to check and remind about forms when you are working on these exercises at home.

27/01/2025

It’s true that long dog nails can have a significant impact on a dog’s posture and overall health. When nails get too long, they can cause a range of issues that affect not just the feet but also the way the dog moves and holds itself.

Here’s a deeper look at how long nails can alter a dog’s posture:
1. Toe distortion
As the nails grow too long, they can cause the toes to splay or twist, which directly impacts the dog’s balance and body awareness. The brain receives distorted signals about the dog’s position, leading to potential coordination issues. Over time, this can result in chronic discomfort or stiffness in the paws.
2. Pain
When nails are too long, they can press against the paw pads, causing pain with each step. This can lead to a dog shifting its weight in awkward ways to avoid the discomfort, placing strain on other parts of the body. This kind of pain can also contribute to lameness or reluctance to walk or play.
3. Slipping
Long nails, especially on smooth floors like tiles or wood, make it difficult for dogs to get the traction they need. This lack of grip can cause them to slide around, increasing the risk of slips and falls. Repeated slipping can be damaging to joints and muscles and may lead to serious injuries over time.
4. Compensatory posture
To offset the pain or awkwardness caused by long nails, dogs may adjust their posture, often by standing in an unnatural way. This might mean they lean back or shift more weight to their hind legs, as though trying to climb an invisible hill. This altered posture can put added stress on their muscles and joints, particularly in the back and hips, and may cause wear and tear over time, leading to arthritis or other long-term mobility issues.

It’s important to keep an eye on your dog’s nails and trim them regularly to prevent these issues. Regular nail care helps maintain their overall comfort and movement, ensuring they lead a healthy, active life.

Healthly nail length will also mean conditioning exercises have the best chance of being performed with correct form.

14/01/2025

Another positive about conditioning…….

It can be done anywhere, with our without equipment. A lot of the exercises used can be done inside or outside. We are also able to adapt them should you not have equipment available to you.

Also, you dont have to do them all in one go. Fit them in when is most convient for you and your dog so you both enjoy spending some time doing them.

13/01/2025

I’ve got some 1:1 slots available this weekend for 1:1 training or conditioning sessions.

Please message the page if you would like to book in.

12/01/2025

A great post by the Canine Conditioning Academy illustrating growth plate closure in dogs. It’s important to remember that this is only a guide and growth plate closure in some dogs can be up to 2 years. This is worth taking into consideration when thinking about exercise or types of training you are planning with young dogs and puppies.

Growth plate closure is such an important consideration when we are working our young dogs. This is a guide only, in my personal experience some growth plates can remain active until the dog is 2yrs old. Torque or twisting can cause damage to the growth plates. Find the distal radial epiphysis (wrist) this can remain active until 17 months or more ! Think about the concussive force this joint receives when the dog takes off and lands. Take care out there 😉

09/01/2025

“Seeing the amazing glow-up of Psych! 🐾✨ The transformation is real—stronger core, super fitness, and working harder, improving chances of a long sporting career. So proud of both Pysch and his owner for their dedication and have enjoyed watching them progress and show me how they are doing with the exercises. They have worked hard with their conditioning alongside seeing other canine professionals. Exciting future ahead as they continue to crush their goals! 💪 Flying Pupstars Fitness & Conditioning, Canine Conditioning Academy

07/01/2025

This handsome boy is definitely going to be one to watch in the future.

We completed assessments and initial measurements and he had a individualised plan set out for him that his owner has been actively following with regular updates and videos shared to check he is always completing the exercises to the correct form. The goal in mid for this youngster to develop in a way which ensured he had the best chance of condition from the inside out so he was well balanced, and had the best chances of improved levels of flexibility, coordination and proprioception.

He is strengthening his core making him more balanced and flexible helping him to fly through his Flyball training progress.

🖤