Why I cant write a general fitness plan the will suit everyone

In the online work that I do I often get asked:

" But how often should I do that?" and "How many times a week do you need to do cardio" and "Should that be something I am putting into my dog's fitness training schedule?"

And I understand. These were the questions I was asking too when I started fitness work. But the honest answer is:

It's just not that simple. 

How cool would it be to be able to give everyone one simple plan to start? That would be awesome. And make it easier for everyone! But here's the thing. One fitness plan just isn't suitable, or appropriate for everyone.

Here's what I'm considering when I put together a plan: 

• The dog's age and physical maturity
• Past history in health and any orthopedic issues
• Behavioral needs and training history of both the dog and handler
• The dog's structure
• The dog's current musculature; the amount of muscle, areas lacking muscle, imbalances in muscle e.g. from the right to left side.  
• The dog's current levels of balance, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness 
• Any other body specific needs or concerns
• The sports, of lifestyle that the owner would like to pursue
• Any sports specific skills that are an issue
• What the owner and dog are already doing that can be counted towards fitness
• The owner's lifestyle, specifically time that can be used for fitness training
• The skills already mastered, and equipment available. 

So whilst the main fitness components (cardio, flexibility, strength, balance, mental fitness and exercises working each plan of motion) will be the same in any fitness plan, the specific details of the plan will be extremely different for a Chihuahua with a straight rear end who's owner wants to compete in obedience, and does not want to spend more than an hour a week doing fitness exercises, to a border collie who does an hour off lead walk, and 30 minutes training agility every day. 

So your take-home message: Start working on fitness skills, confidence with equipment, and learning new exercises BUT make sure you are working with experts who can ensure you are putting this together in the best way for you, and your dog!