Training patterns are not always established by what you want them to be, but rather by what they have to be. My running schedule was changed by one decision.
On April 6th, my older daughter adopted a dog, and I became part of her care when my daughter is at her overnight shifts at the hospital. That means from Saturday evening until Tuesday morning, I don’t run. Maggie, her dog, and I walk and hike, but she’s just not ready at 19 months to understand running with a human.
My training pattern is now: Monday – morning dog walk, strength workout, evening dog walk. Tuesday – morning dog walk, morning run, evening walk. Wednesday – morning hike, evening walk. Thursday – strength workout, morning run, evening walk. Friday – morning run, evening walk. Saturday – morning run, evening dog walk. Sunday – morning dog walk, evening dog walk.
Is my training suffering? No. Below is my Polar training log for March 2026. Good, but modest mileage.
Now compare it to July 2026 below, and what you see is almost 50% more miles each week. Getting back into strength training after my summer hiatus is going to get me in great shape for the cooler weather that is sure to come. I had no idea that my daughter getting a dog would be a great way to get in better shape!
Rich Dafter is the founder of HowToBeFit.com, a lifelong runner, former ACE Certified Personal Trainer, BODi Coach since 2007, and Polar Athlete and Ambassador for 39 years. At 75, he continues to run, hike, strength train, and share practical strategies for healthy aging, fitness, and longevity. Learn more about Rich Dafter on the About page.
