In this episode, I’m joined by Laura Bussing—an agility athlete, competitor, coach, judge, canine fitness advocate, and expert in agility behavior. Laura has been a lifelong athlete, and in recent years she’s poured that same drive and intensity into dog sports.We first connected back in 2022, and since then I’ve had a front-row seat to watch her growth—not just as a competitor, but as an athlete in every sense of the word. Laura brings practical tools, valuable lessons, and a perspective that’s always worth learning from, whether you’re brand new to agility or a seasoned handler.Tune in for a conversation about what it really takes to thrive in dog sports—mentally, physically, and as a team with your dog.📍 Where to find Laura:WebsitePodcastFacebook👉 Laura trains using our All Access Pass, and you can too! Start your 2-week free trial today and explore the same workouts, stretching, and core training that help top handlers like Laura perform their best.[Click here] to get started today.
Everyone thinks January is the “fresh start” month for fitness—but here’s the reality: by March, nearly 80% of people have already quit. The resolution rush doesn’t stick.Stop waiting for January to fix your fitness. By then, the gyms are packed, the apps are overflowing, and most people have already quit by March.Here’s the smarter play: start in September.September gives you a clean slate, fresh routines, and the chance to build momentum before the holiday chaos. Imagine this: you start now, and by January you’re already 12–16 weeks in and starting January riding a wave of momentum. You’re stronger, faster, and more confident while everyone else is still figuring out how to log into their gym app.In this episode, I’m breaking down:Why January is the worst time to start fitnessThe real reasons September sets you up for successHow to use fall to lock in consistency, even with a busy scheduleThe exact momentum you’ll build to hit spring ahead of the curveThis is your wake-up call: September isn’t the time to think about starting—it’s the time to actually do it.👉 Hit play, start today, and let’s make sure you’re not starting over in January—you’re already ahead.Stop waiting for January to fix your fitness. By then, the gyms are packed, the apps are overflowing, and most people have already quit by March.Here’s the smarter play: start in September.September gives you a clean slate, fresh routines, and the chance to build momentum before the holiday chaos. Imagine this: you start now, and by January you’re already 12–16 weeks in. You’re not making resolutions—you’re making progress. You’re stronger, faster, and more confident while everyone else is still figuring out how to log into their gym app.In this episode, I’m breaking down:Why January is the worst time to start fitnessThe real reasons September sets you up for successHow to use fall to lock in consistency, even with a busy scheduleThe exact momentum you’ll build to hit spring ahead of the curveThis is your wake-up call: September isn’t the time to think about starting—it’s the time to actually do it.👉 Hit play, start today, and let’s make sure you’re not starting over in January—you’re already ahead.Ready to be a September Starter? Click here to access your FREE 2 Week Trial to my All Access Pass.
I see a lot of hypermobile people in dog sports, and while flexibility can be a huge advantage, it often comes with hidden challenges that impact health, performance, and day-to-day life. In this episode, we dive into the mystery of hypermobility — a niche but increasingly researched area of connective tissue disorders — and why understanding it is crucial for taking control of your body and your life.With Dr. Ashton Wilson, we explore:Common comorbidities that often accompany hypermobility, from joint instability and chronic pain to digestive and autonomic issuesPractical strategies for managing these conditions so you can stay active, strong, and confident in dog sports and lifeWhich doctors and specialists to see and how to know when it’s time for a referralConversation prompts to advocate for yourself effectively with your medical teamTools and tips for medical appointments — even when practitioners aren’t familiar with hypermobility, so you leave feeling understood and preparedThis episode is empowering and actionable. The information shared here isn’t just theory — it’s the knowledge you need to train smarter, move stronger, and take control of your health and performance. Knowing your body and the ways hypermobility can affect it gives you the insight to make bold, informed choices — essentially giving you the tools to approach your life with strategy, strength, and confidence.You can book your own virtual consultation with Dr. Wilson and her team here.You can also find her insightful Instagram page here!
You’ve been sprinting, queuing, moving equipment, maybe driving, and who knows — you might’ve been wrangling some big feelings too. That first window right after your run, when your heart is still thumping, is one of the most powerful moments of your entire agility day.In this episode, we talk about how to cool down your body and your nervous system so you finish your day not thinking, “I survived,” but instead feeling ready for more.Here’s why a cool-down is essential:Your nervous system is still lit up — heart racing, muscles buzzing, adrenaline flowing, and your brain may still be replaying runs. A proper cool-down helps you shift from go mode to recovery mode.Eases physical tension and reduces next-day soreness.Supports energy conservation during long trial days or weekend events by bringing your nervous system back down to baseline.Improves overall performance — a body and mind that recover efficiently can handle more, react faster, and stay consistent run after run.You’ll also learn:The most effective post-run stretches and mobility drills for hips, shoulders, calves, and coreQuick strategies for short sessions vs. full trial daysTools to optimize recovery — foam rollers, bands, and mini routines that fit your scheduleBottom line: The moments after your run aren’t just “cool down” time — they’re prime recovery and performance-building time. Use them wisely and you’ll feel strong, energized, and ready to tackle your next challenge.📥 Download your WarmUp EBook here with step-by-step routines and visual demos to make recovery simple, effective, and fun.🎧 Listen now and turn your post-run routine into your secret weapon for energy, consistency, and performance!
Warm-ups aren’t optional — they’re your performance insurance policy.In this episode, I break down how a simple, strategic warm-up can transform your first run from stiff and sluggish to powerful and precise.You’ll learn:How long you should be warming upHow often you need to warm up, and how long a warm up lastsWhat if you're running multiple dogs?Why walking the course is NOT a warm-up (and what to do instead)The science-backed sequence that activates your reaction speed, balance, and focusQuick fixes for trial mornings when you feel rushed or tiredShould you warm up before the dog, or afterBottom line: Warm-ups aren’t just about feeling “ready” — they give you faster reaction times, better precision, and fewer injuries. And the best part? The right routine takes less than 5 minutes.Grab your free “Agility Handler Warm-Up” eBook with step-by-step photos and modifications for every fitness level. You’ll have a routine you can start using at your very next trial — no guesswork.👉 Get Your EBook Here🎧 Listen now and give your first run the same energy as your last.
In this episode, I sit down with Sarah Novak — an accomplished agility competitor and long-time Canine Handler Fitness client.We explore what it’s like to stay fit for agility in your 40sThe strategies she uses to keep up with her fast dogsHow her improved sport-specific fitness has expanded her handling options in the ringSarah shares her personal journey, the changes she’s noticed in her body and performance, and what’s helped her most along the way.Whether you’re chasing Qs or just trying to keep up with your canine teammate, this episode will inspire you to see what’s possible with the right training.If you want a simple way to start moving better before your next workout or run, check out the free Warm-Up eBook here!
In Part 2 of Liz’s origin story, we go behind the scenes of how Canine Handler Fitness went from one-on-one coaching to an online movement supporting hundreds of handlers across the globe.You’ll hear what it really took to launch online programs that actually work — the missteps, the breakthroughs, and the major lessons learned along the way.💡 In this episode:The surprising challenges of coaching online vs. in personWhy general fitness isn’t enough for dog sport handlersThe creation of CHF’s first sprinting, agility, and strength programsWhat led to the All Access Pass and over 350 follow-along workoutsWhy strength training is a non-negotiable for handler performanceWhat’s coming next — including pelvic floor support and handler-specific rehab programsWhether you're a new listener or a long-time member of the CHF community, this episode brings you into the heart of the mission — helping handlers train smarter, move better, and feel more like themselves.🎧 Let’s grow together — body, mind, and handler spirit.PS. Have you picked up your FREE Handler Stretching Guide?
In this deeply personal first episode of the Canine Handler Fitness Podcast, Liz Joyce opens up about the life experiences that shaped her — as a woman, a coach, and a movement professional. From wrestling in high school and working industrial jobs, to living with Crohn’s and finding healing through strength, Liz shares how movement became the thread that pulled her forward through every chapter.This episode isn’t just about fitness. It’s about growth — the kind that happens when you learn to trust your body again, rebuild your strength, and carry that power into every part of your life. It’s also the origin story of why she’s so passionate about helping other handlers move better, feel better, and thrive in the sport they love.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why movement became Liz’s anchor during some of the hardest seasons of her lifeWhat training 20,000+ hours taught her about how people move — and where they get stuckHow coaching agility handlers opened her eyes to a powerful need in the sportThe emotional impact of watching people finally feel strong and capable in their bodiesWhy she believes coaching is more than workouts — it’s a way to help people come back to themselvesLinks & Resources:Learn more about CHFGrab your free Stretch to Handle eBookFollow Liz on Facebook
Are you spinning your wheels with workouts that just don’t seem to work? Choosing the wrong fitness level could be sabotaging your progress without you even realizing it!In this episode, we're taking the guesswork out of training decisions. Whether you're just starting out or eyeing the advanced programs, we break down how to confidently select the right level — and how to know when you're ready to level up.In this episode, we cover:Key indicators to help you choose the right course level for your current fitness, mobility, and coordinationThe biggest mistakes handlers make when starting too high or too low – and how it affects performanceHow to tell when you’re ready to progress to a more challenging programThe way our strength AND speed/agility programs build on one another for cumulative gainsWhy consistency matters more than intensity at the beginningHow each level supports your goals in the ring, from improved stability to more explosive sprintingDon't miss this: ➡️ We reference our FREE Handler Stretching Guide — a great place to start assessing how your body moves and what level may suit you best. You can grab yours at https://liz-joyce-fitnes.kit.com/75a61bb61aListen now and take the first step toward choosing the perfect challenge level — one that sets you up for success, not setbacks. 💪
We’re diving into one of the biggest struggles I hear from so many handlers and competitors: “I know I should work out — so why is it so hard to actually stick with it?”If you’ve ever felt frustrated by that tug-of-war in your head — you want to get stronger and faster for your dog, but your follow-through fizzles out — you are going to love this conversation.In this episode, I’m joined by Heather Sumlin, an amazing mental management coach who works with athletes, handlers, and everyday people to break through the mental roadblocks that get in the way of consistent training. Together, we unpack:✨ Why connecting to your deeper “why” really matters — and how to reframe boring mobility drills into something that feels motivating and meaningful.✨ How perfectionism and all-or-nothing thinking sneak in — and simple reframes you can use when life is busy so you still get a win instead of skipping your workout altogether.✨ The shift from “I should work out” to “This is who I am.” We explore how seeing yourself as an athlete for your dog changes your commitment, your mindset, and your results.✨ What to do when your inner critic shows up. [Guest’s Name] shares powerful tips for handling the voice that says, “You’re too old,” or “You’ll never be as fast as them.”✨ Protecting your energy and avoiding burnout. We talk about how to stop pouring from an empty cup so you can stay strong for your dog — and yourself.✨ The power of environment and tiny habits. Learn how to build workout cues right into your day, so you don’t have to rely on willpower.✨ How to bounce back after you fall off track. Because missing a week (or a month!) doesn’t mean you’ve failed — and we’ll help you see how to reset and keep going.Whether you’re an experienced competitor or just starting your fitness journey, you’ll come away from this episode with fresh mindset tools, practical ideas, and inspiration to help you keep showing up for yourself — and your dog — for the long haul.🎧 Listen now and let us know what lands for you — we’d love to hear what helps!You can find Heather’s amazing work, resources, and coaching on her Website at HeatherSumlin.com ,her Patreon bit.ly/4l190BH and her inspiring Podcast — https://bit.ly/4eUcHrk!For more tools, workouts, and ways to work with me, head to caninehandlerfitness.com And don’t forget to share this one with a friend who might need a little mental boost, too. You’ve got this!Ready to move better, feel stronger, and run your dog with more speed and control?Jump into these free handler-specific stretches designed to boost your mobility, prevent injury, and elevate your performance—click here to get started now: https://liz-joyce-fitnes.kit.com/75a61bb61a
If you’ve ever skipped a workout because you felt awkward, uncoordinated, or just plain embarrassed, this episode is for you.We’re diving into why so many adults feel clumsy when they try to get back into movement—and how to change that narrative for good. You’ll learn why feeling “unathletic” has less to do with your actual ability and more to do with missing physical literacy building blocks that many of us never had a chance to develop as kids.We talk about:What muscle memory really is—and how to rebuild itHow physical literacy shapes confidence and coordinationWhy fitness can feel so vulnerable for adults (and what to do about it)The role of play, curiosity, and skill-building in getting betterHow dog training principles like “start simple and reward often” can work for people, tooWhether you’re brand new to movement or just feeling out of practice, you’ll leave this episode with tools, reassurance, and a few laughs—and hopefully the permission to start again, without shame.👉 Want more? Check out resources, programs, and future episodes at caninehandlerfitness.com🎙️ Subscribe so you don’t miss what’s next!Ready to move better, feel stronger, and run your dog with more speed and control?Jump into these free handler-specific stretches designed to boost your mobility, prevent injury, and elevate your performance—click here to get started now!
As dog sport handlers, we’re meticulous about how we fuel our dogs—high-quality food, hydration, recovery routines, the works. But when it comes to fueling ourselves? Especially around sugar cravings? That often gets overlooked.The problem is, unchecked sugar cravings don’t just impact your diet—they impact your performance. If you're constantly reaching for quick sugar fixes, you’re more likely to experience blood sugar crashes that leave you foggy, fatigued, and less responsive on the field.That means slower decision-making, less endurance, and a reduced ability to stay sharp and decisive—whether you're navigating an agility course, hiking all day at a trial, or tracking in challenging terrain.How you fuel yourself matters just as much as how you fuel your dog—because you’re a team, and both parts of that team need to perform at their best.In this episode of Canine Handler Fitness, we’re unpacking the real reasons sugar cravings hit so hard—especially on long trial days, during training blocks, or when life is extra stressful. This isn’t about guilt or restriction—it’s about helping you understand what your body’s asking for and how to respond in a way that supports your energy, focus, and performance.We’ll explore:Why sugar cravings aren’t about “lack of willpower”The critical connection between sleep, blood sugar, and sugar crashesHow gut bacteria and taste buds influence what you craveEmotional vs. biological cravings—and how to tell the differenceWhat this means for your handling, stamina, and mindset in the ringPlus: simple, science-backed strategies you can start using this week to reduce cravings, feel more steady, and fuel yourself like the athlete you are.You wouldn’t send your dog into a big weekend underfed, under-rested, or out of balance—so why do it to yourself?Perfect For:Dog sport handlers who struggle with sugar crashes or snack binges at trialsAnyone working on handler fitness, nutrition, or consistent energyHandlers who want to perform better without giving up joy or food they loveGet free resources and more support over at caninehandlerfitness.comReady to move better, feel stronger, and run your dog with more speed and control? Jump into these free handler-specific stretches designed to boost your mobility, prevent injury, and elevate your performance—click here to get started now: https://liz-joyce-fitnes.kit.com/75a61bb61a
Trial days are long, unpredictable, and full of high-stakes moments—for both you and your dog. What you eat directly impacts your energy, brain power, recovery, and enthusiasm. In this episode, we’re diving into how to fuel your body like the athlete you are so you stay sharp, steady, and ready to run—without the dreaded afternoon crash.You’ll learn:What (and when) to eat before your first runSmart snack strategies to stay energized between classesHow to dodge the sugar crash cycleWhy hydration fuels your brain as much as your bodyWhat caffeine can (and can’t) do for your performanceHow to eat for mental clarity, physical recovery, and consistent focus—all day longWhether you're new to trialing or looking to fine-tune your performance, this episode is packed with real-world strategies to help you stay energized, clear-headed, and ready for anything from first walk-through to final run.Ready to move better, feel stronger, and run your dog with more speed and control? Jump into these free handler-specific stretches designed to boost your mobility, prevent injury, and elevate your performance—click here to get started now: https://liz-joyce-fitnes.kit.com/75a61bb61a
Welcome to Part 2 of our sprint form mini-series!If you missed Part 1, pause here and go back—we covered foot strike, knee drive, and arm pumping, the foundation of powerful sprinting.Today, we’re finishing the puzzle with the top three mechanics that help you stay controlled, rhythmic, and resilient:➡️ Hip Extension➡️ Torso Position & Posture➡️ Cadence & Ground Contact TimeIf you’ve ever felt off-balance when running or like your speed tanks mid-course, these tweaks are your missing link. Learn what to watch for, how to cue each correction, and which drills to use for results that show up where it counts.👟 Want more help or get eyes on your sprint form? Visit caninehandlerfitness.com for training plans, resources, and coaching designed for dog sport handlers like you.Ready to move better, feel stronger, and run your dog with more speed and control? Jump into these free handler-specific stretches designed to boost your mobility, prevent injury, and elevate your performance—click here to get started now: https://liz-joyce-fitnes.kit.com/75a61bb61a
If your sprinting feels slow, awkward, or like it takes way too much effort—this episode is for you.In Part 1 of this mini-series, we're covering the three foundational form mechanics that instantly boost sprinting power and control:➡️ Foot Strike Position➡️ Knee Drive➡️ Arm PumpingYou’ll get clear cues to try in your next run, drills to reinforce good habits, and examples of how each form error shows up on course.No fluff—just real, dog-handler-specific advice to help you move faster and more efficiently without extra wear and tear.🎧 Don’t forget to catch Part 2 next week for the second half of the sprinting puzzle.Ready to move better, feel stronger, and run your dog with more speed and control? Jump into these free handler-specific stretches designed to boost your mobility, prevent injury, and elevate your performance—click here to get started now: https://liz-joyce-fitnes.kit.com/75a61bb61a
Long training days or summer trials in the heat can wipe you—and your dog—out. In this episode, Liz dives into why heat gets harder to tolerate (especially as we age), what it actually takes to stay energized, and 8 proven strategies to stay cool and perform better when the temperatures rise.With practical hydration tips, fueling advice, and a few funny stories about her heat-hating dog Levi, this episode is a must-listen for any handler facing long days outside.What You’ll Learn:Why the heat affects us more as we age (and what to do about it)What to eat and drink to stay energized—not bloatedThe #1 mistake people make with hydration on trial days8 effective strategies to stay cooler and perform betterHow to help your dog (and yourself) recover faster between runsWhy protein = performance, especially in the heatResources Mentioned:Visit CanineHandlerFitness.com for programs, free resources, and trial day fuel plansElectrolyte & protein snack ideas (coming soon as a free download)Levi’s official protest against summer (just kidding… sort of)Let’s Connect!Instagram: @caninehandlerfitnessWebsite: www.caninehandlerfitness.comLeave a review if you loved this episode—it really helps others find the show!Ready to move better, feel stronger, and run your dog with more speed and control? Jump into these free handler-specific stretches designed to boost your mobility, prevent injury, and elevate your performance—click here to get started now: https://liz-joyce-fitnes.kit.com/75a61bb61a
In this trailer episode, get a sneak peek at what Canine Handler Fitness is all about. Meet your host, Liz—a certified personal trainer with nearly 20 years of experience and a deep passion for helping dog handlers train smarter, move better, and feel stronger.You'll hear what to expect from this podcast: 15–20 minute weekly episodes packed with practical tools, inspiration, and strategies tailored specifically to the unique physical demands of dog sports.If you're ready to stop feeling held back by pain, fatigue, or injury—and start showing up as the athlete your dog needs—you’re in the right place.New episodes drop every Thursday. Let’s get to work.