In this episode, Michelle and Louise chat with Ray, a canicross enthusiast with a pack of rescue dogs. Ray shares her journey from returning to the UK after seven years abroad, feeling isolated and looking for a way to connect socially and physically. She found the sport of canicross through her local club (Tees Valley Canicross), which offered both community and motivation.   She gives a warm, honest account of the challenges of running with Cloud, who is a mixed‑breed street dog rescue from China. She also shares how she is building up a new puppy‑rescue, Nomad from Cyprus, to join the team.   Ray covers the realities of canine health, the importance of harness and gear fit, inclusive club culture, and advice for people with reactive dogs. She encourages anyone who thinks “I’m not a runner” to still give canicross a try, highlighting that the real reward is the bond with the dog and the community around it.     Timings 00:00 – 02:00 ­ Introduction & Ray’s background 02:00 – 05:00 ­ Meet Ray’s dogs: Cloud, Nomad, older dogs 05:00 – 08:00 ­ Training and challenges with Nomad (harness anxiety, grass obsession) 08:00 – 11:00 ­ First races, social aspect of the club 11:00 – 14:00 ­ Why Ray doesn’t consider herself a “runner” & what changed post‑COVID 14:00 – 18:00 ­ Dog health story (dehydration, vertigo) and hydration lesson 18:00 – 22:00 ­ Season goals, 10K aim, Cloud’s future, balancing veteran dog 22:00 – 27:00 ­ Advice for new canicrossers: non‑runners, reactive dogs, using muzzles, equipment tips 27:00 – 30:00 ­ Harness The Expert: How to strengthen Achilles in pain from a pulling dog 30:00 – 31:00 ­ Final reflections & how to follow Ray (Instagram Fluffy Multipack)

Michelle and Louise chat to sports dietitian and author Renee McGregor about how to optimise fuelling across life stages - especially during perimenopause and after menopause - while also unpacking RED‑S, carbohydrate myths, and sensible supplement use.   Renee acknowledges how little conversation there has historically been about female hormonal transitions, and how women often experience a “wobbliness” in their energy, mood, and performance as hormones fluctuate unpredictably. She emphasises that menopause (and the years leading up to it) needn’t be a downhill spiral: “there’s a lot of women [who] feel they’ve reached their potential from an athletic point of view.” Key strategies she shares include replacing some cardio with strength-based work, choosing nutrient-dense whole foods (rather than rigid restriction), and listening to your body.   The trio discuss RED‑S (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport), explaining that under‑fuelling (not eating enough to support both training and basic body function) can manifest via hormonal disruption, injury, digestive issues, mood or sleep disturbances, and stagnation in performance. Renee stresses that RED‑S affects recreational athletes too, not just elites.   On carbohydrates being demonised, Renee argues they are crucial: “Carbs per se are not bad … they provide your muscles with the energy you need.”   Finally, Michelle asks about supplements. Renee advises vitamin D (especially through UK winters), and checking iron/B12 when clinically indicated, but otherwise focusing on whole foods rather than a “pile of supplements.”       Links Renee McGregor’s latest book Fuel for Thought reneemcgregor.com Renee’s Instagram: @r_mcgregor Renee’s Substack newsletter: The Fuel Line

In this episode, Louise and Michelle chat to Lauren.   Lauren recounts how her 'failed' sheepdog Pip came into her life at 13 months old, having never truly bonded with farm work, and how the two forged an extraordinary connection in a family environment. From tentative first nights indoors, to running together in canicross, Lauren shares how this strong bond became a lifeline during a difficult season in her life. She opens up about losing her father to suicide, stepping back from her former high‑pressure work, and finding solace, purpose and community through running with Pip.   Along the way, she discovered a new passion, launched Me and My Dog Running Club, creating personalised apparel. A heart-warming episode, showing that healing and connection can take unexpected and wonderful forms.   We also chat about warm ups in our new feature Harness the Expert   Timings 0.00 – introduction & backstory: meeting Pip 3.50 – Pip’s personality, calm indoors vs energetic outdoors 5.20 – herding instinct & family dynamics on walks 7.00 – settling into house life, first nights indoors 9.00 – impact on child allergies & kids bonding with dog 10.30 – discovering canicross & first parkrun experience 13.00 – joining clubs, recce runs, community 16.00 – learning about kit, harness choices 18.00 – Pip’s running style, working as a team 20.30 – running without Pip, ultra training decisions 24.00 – doing the 50K ultra with Into Ultra support 28.30 – goals together: longer distances, exploring events 32.00 – how canicross changed Lauren’s life after loss 36.00 – starting Me & My Dog Running Club and personalised apparel 40.30 – Harness The Expert: How to warm up (you + dog) for a club run 45.00 – closing, social handles & where to find Lauren online Links & social Me and My Dog Running Club on Instagram Me and My Dog Running Club on Facebook Lauren’s personalised apparel website Into Ultra

In today's canicross story, we chat to Becky about how she tried canicross after her working dogs didn't really enjoy gundog training, and now she's hooked! Becky chats to us about how she started out with free running, experimenting with gundog training tools (like whistle recall), and the moment she realised what canicross was all about. She reflects on how both her dogs — Lexi the cautious Vizsla and Bronson the bold GSP — have adapted differently, and shares insights on training, strength work, confidence building, and managing your body as you join the sport. This episode is ideal for anyone curious about stepping into canicross (or already doing it) who wants a relatable story, practical tips, and encouragement to take that first tethered run.     Topics & timings 00:00:35 – Becky introduces herself, Lexi & Bronson 00:03:47 – complementing personalities of two working dogs 00:04:24 – attempt at gundog training and use of whistle 00:06:20 – Becky’s transition from CrossFit to biking to running 00:07:57 – first real canicross experience at Connect & Paws 00:09:10 – advice for beginners: take the first step 00:14:53 – changes seen in Lexi and Bronson from canicross 00:17:56 – recap of Becky’s recent Trail Dog 5K with obstacles 00:22:45 – Becky’s race plans and strategy with Lexi/Bronson 00:28:23 – preparing body: strength, stretching, cadence 00:32:33 – longevity in canicross, dealing with niggles 00:37:50 – balancing training vs resting days 00:38:56 – Becky teases a new project Follow Becky's beautiful Instagram page @lexi_and_bronson

In this insightful episode of Canicross Conversations, hosts Michelle and Louise are joined by Lucy Millar, founder of Rùn Dog Food, and Dr Jacqueline Boyd, an animal scientist and canine nutrition consultant. Together, they delve into the world of performance nutrition for active dogs, demystifying cold-pressed food, fuelling strategies, and how to navigate the myths of pet nutrition.   Lucy shares her journey from dog trainer to dog food entrepreneur, driven by her passion for transparency in the pet food industry.   Dr Boyd brings her scientific expertise to explore what dogs really need to thrive in sports like canicross, agility and working gundog roles. They cover everything from how to do an energy audit for your dog, to how joint health and digestion change with age, and why not all dogs benefit from simply eating more food.   You’ll come away with practical advice and a better understanding of how to support your dog’s performance and recovery.   Whether you're feeding raw, kibble, or cold-pressed, this episode encourages a balanced, informed approach.   Plus, Lucy shares exciting insights into what’s next for the Rùn brand.   Topics and timings1.10 – why Lucy started Rùn Dog Food4.30 – cold-pressed vs traditional kibble8.45 – Jacqueline’s journey into canine nutrition12.30 – do dogs need snacks like energy bars?18.00 – energy bars for performance and recovery25.15 – tailoring food quantity to activity levels32.00 – how age affects digestion and nutrition40.20 – feeding routines and fuelling strategies48.10 – coprophagia and scavenging explained53.00 – supplements, probiotics and joint support59.30 – what’s next for Rùn Dog Food   Resources mentioned Rùn Dog Food website: https://rundogfood.com Use CONVERSATIONS10 for 10% off Instagram: @rundogfood Dr Jacqueline Boyd: Facebook and @dogtorboyd on Instagram CROWOOD10 provides 10% discount off Dr Boyd's books -  Canine Nutrition and Feeding AND The Spaniel Survival Guide Dr Boyd's Nutrition Consultancy booking form Energy audit equations: basic ones are found on pages 54 and 55 of  https://europeanpetfood.org/self-regulation/nutritional-guidelines/ and this is also a hugely useful resource recommended by Dr Boyd.

In today's canicross story, we chat to Becky about how she tried canicross after her working dogs didn't really enjoy gundog training, and now she's hooked! Becky chats to us about how she started out with free running, experimenting with gundog training tools (like whistle recall), and the moment she realised what canicross was all about. She reflects on how both her dogs — Lexi the cautious Vizsla and Bronson the bold GSP — have adapted differently, and shares insights on training, strength work, confidence building, and managing your body as you join the sport. This episode is ideal for anyone curious about stepping into canicross (or already doing it) who wants a relatable story, practical tips, and encouragement to take that first tethered run.     Topics & timings 00:00:35 – Becky introduces herself, Lexi & Bronson 00:03:47 – complementing personalities of two working dogs 00:04:24 – attempt at gundog training and use of whistle 00:06:20 – Becky’s transition from CrossFit to biking to running 00:07:57 – first real canicross experience at Connect & Paws 00:09:10 – advice for beginners: take the first step 00:14:53 – changes seen in Lexi and Bronson from canicross 00:17:56 – recap of Becky’s recent Trail Dog 5K with obstacles 00:22:45 – Becky’s race plans and strategy with Lexi/Bronson 00:28:23 – preparing body: strength, stretching, cadence 00:32:33 – longevity in canicross, dealing with niggles 00:37:50 – balancing training vs resting days 00:38:56 – Becky teases a new project Follow Becky's beautiful Instagram page @lexi_and_bronson

In this episode of Canicross Conversations, Louise and Michelle are joined by Claire, better known as @theyorkshirewhippets on Instagram.   Claire shares her upside-down journey into the world of canicross when a friend convinced her to enter a race with her whippet, Pip. From her early days of social running, to training for her first half marathon, Claire brings energy, honesty and giggles.   Listeners will hear about Claire’s transition from casual runner to competitive canicrosser, how she manages training with two very different dogs, and the importance of cross-training and recovery. She opens up about the challenges of running in hot weather, how yoga and horse riding have helped her canicross performance, and how she balances full-time work with a very active lifestyle.   The episode is packed with practical tips on kit, nutrition, and building confidence in younger dogs, especially for those working with breeds not traditionally seen as endurance runners. Claire also shares her reasons for fundraising for Stray Aid, and how this sport has become a meaningful part of her life.   Tune in for a heart-warming and humorous chat that celebrates the bond between dogs and humans, the joys (and face-plants) of trail running, and the importance of listening to your body and your dog.   Topics and timings 1.10 – Why dogs shouldn't run in the heat4.30 – Claire's canicross journey begins10.00 – Claire's first Trail Dogs experience15.40 – Training and building fitness22.00 – Whippets as endurance athletes28.30 – Running kit upgrades33.00 – Balancing life, work, and training36.10 – Nutrition and fuelling for longer distances41.50 – Funny stories and muddy mishaps46.00 – Preparing Ivy for her first race52.00 – Fundraising for Stray Aid   Resources mentioned Trail Dog events Non-stop free motion harness & trail belt Peak2Peak energy bars Episode 2 with Ann Carter (heatstroke and dogs) https://www.strayaid.org.uk/

In this episode, Louise and Michelle catch up again with physio and ultrarunner Nicky Edwards about her recent diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis and how she's adapting her training to achieve her ultimate goal of UTMB

In this episode, Michelle and Louise chat to sports dog nutritionist Holly Barker for her no nonsense advice on feeding your dog.  Holly shares her journey from serving as a medic in the RAF, through mental health nursing, to becoming an evidence-based practitioner focused on canine nutrition. She outlines how she educated herself in the absence of formal courses, experimented with diets in working and sport dogs, and gradually developed a full‑time practice. The conversation addresses what good evidence means in the canine nutrition world, the differences (and similarities) between human and dog nutrition, and how diet should adapt according to the dog's lifestyle, breed, work load and individual response. Holly also dives deep into specific topics like protein levels for active dogs, fuelling for longer runs, hydration, antioxidants, supplements (what works, what to watch out for), and practical tips like rehydrating dry food, or using hearts for taurine. You won't want to miss this! Holly's Facebook Group Sport Dog Nutrition Better Every Day Supplement

In this special summer‑'paws' episode, hosts Louise Humphrey and Michelle Mortimer share a friendly, warm chat instead of their usual guest interview. They reflect on recent adventures (including Trail Dog UK’s dog & wellness festival and holiday escapades), explain why they’re taking a break over summer, and give a peek at what’s coming up when they return. Expect updates about upcoming races and new guests, plus an invitation for listeners to engage with them over the summer on Instagram and Facebook.   Episode Highlights Our summer pause is intentional: to recharge and plan next season, keeping safety and wellbeing at the front of our minds. Festival highlights: Louise led Pilates sessions with dogs at Trail Dog UK’s first dog & wellness event—plus walks, reconnecting with old friends, and lots of joy. Doggy adventures: Pickle swam strongly in Cornwall; Michelle’s dog Poppy is still warming to the water—advice encouraged for helping reluctant canine swimmers. Looking ahead: Louise has some solo races in September; Michelle is planning ultra‑distance events next year. Pickle is stepping back from intensive racing due to age and needing physio; Betsy, her pup, might step up next season. New podcast guests coming soon: a human nutritionist and dog nutritionist are lined up, along with coverage of other dog sports beyond canicross. Listener involvement: questions invited for guests; opportunity to share listener stories or ideas; promotion of a new Facebook page and Instagram tagging encouraged. Canicross Conversations Facebook group & new Facebook page   Instagram (get in touch with ideas and tag us to be featured)  

Another of our inspiring Canicross Stories. Please do leave us a review and share our podcast with your dog friends.

In this episode, Michelle and Louise welcome Zoe Gow from Mindspace Journey to delve into how clinical hypnotherapy can strengthen the mind–body bond for runners, with a special nod to the unique connection between runners and their dogs. Zoe shares her personal journey from discovering hypnotherapy in the pandemic to training as a clinical hypnotherapist and supporting endurance athletes with performance, recovery and mental wellbeing. She explains how hypnotherapy works, the power of trance and subconscious suggestion, and how it complements sports psychology. The episode explores topics like calming pre‑race nerves, overcoming phobias (including goats on the Pennine Way!), stress relief, improving sleep, breath‑work and EFT tapping—even for the trail‑running duo of human and dog. Zoe outlines her typical six‑week programme, how it adapts for ultra‑runners, and shares practical tips and resources—including guided recordings and grounding techniques—for listeners to start applying immediately. This episode is a holistic guide to mental resilience, focus and relaxation, crafted to support both runners and their dogs.   Topics Introduction to hypnotherapy for runners Differentiating stage hypnosis and clinical hypnotherapy How hypnotherapy can help with race anxiety, fuelling issues, breathing & confidence Defining hypnotherapy & explaining trance Supporting injury recovery and pain management Evidence and acceptance in sports psychology Phobias: e.g. goats on the Pennine Way Managing runner–and‑dog anxiety Sleep support for endurance events Introduction to EFT tapping for calm LinksMindspace Journey Instagram: @MindspaceJourneyZoe’s websiteGuided downloads: breath‑work, sleep‑audio, EFT sequence

In this episode, Michelle Mortimer and Louise Humphrey welcome Professor Dawn Carnes, an expert in musculoskeletal health and chronic pain psychology. Dawn introduces a cognitive-behavioural approach to help runners and canicrossers break through mental barriers. She explains how thoughts, emotions and behaviours are interconnected and offers practical strategies: insight into automatic negative thinking, goal‑setting with SMART objectives, problem‑solving, self‑visualisation, and self‑compassion.   Through a live demonstration, Michelle and Louise explore addressing motivations, reframing “chore” workouts (e.g. running intervals) into enjoyable alternatives (like netball), and challenging negative automatic thoughts mid-run. The episode concludes with encouragement to tackle fears one small step at a time, reinforcing that change is achievable by breaking tasks into manageable chunks.   Topics Cognitive‑behavioural triad: thoughts, feelings, behaviours Behavioural activation: how exercise lifts mood with dopamine/cortisol Finding enjoyable alternatives to boring workouts Problem‑solving demo: overcoming injury with strength training SMART goals explained Challenging negative self-talk & predictions Avoiding perfectionism & embracing fluctuations "Compare and despair”: the impact of social media Five-step action plan for sustainable change  

In this episode of Canicross Conversations, Louise and Michelle welcome rising star Matt Powell, a 16-year-old who is already a British, European, and World Champion in canicross. As if that weren’t impressive enough, Matt has   Key takeaways Matt discovered canicross at 12 and quickly rose to the top of junior ranks. He runs with two dogs and adapts training for each one's ability. Bikejoring adds variety and pace to his training regime. Mentorship has been crucial to his development and now he mentors others. The canicross community is supportive and welcoming to newcomers. Topics and timings 1.10 – how Matt got into canicross6.25 – early training challenges and dog selection9.40 – school running background and shift to longer distances12.20 – training routines and bikejoring17.10 – competing with two dogs and British Champs20.30 – mentoring younger runners24.15 – international races and upcoming world champs29.40 – importance of family support and school life33.50 – how to get started in canicross as a young person37.15 – growing the sport and using social media40.00 – future goals and quickfire round   Links mentioned Episode 131 with Gail Irvine Matt Powell on Instagram: @mattpowell.canicross

In this episode of Canicross Conversations, hosts Michelle and Louise chat to guest Ryan McKee about the world of bikejor. Ryan shares how he was first an ultra‑endurance mountain biker, taking a break from the sport due to burnout. His love for mountain biking reignited after adopting Rhubarb, their enthusiastic Hungarian Vizsla. What started as a behavioural solution evolved into competitive fun as the pair discovered canicross and then bikejor. Ryan describes his first bikejor race in Chepstow, talking about his preparation, race‑day experience, and how Rhubarb’s natural instincts helped them excel beyond expectations. From harness training and on‑trail communication to adapting fitness regimes and handling pre‑race nervous energy, Ryan talks us through the world of bikejor racing. Whether you’re curious about getting involved or seeking inspiration to rekindle your fitness with your dog, this episode offers real‑life advice, amusing mishaps and heartfelt reflections. It sets a reassuring tone for beginners and reminds seasoned competitors why fun and connection matter more than winning.   We cover: Introduction to Ryan and his mountain‑biking background How Rhubarb became his training partner First experience in canicross Motivation to move into bikejor Introduction to bikejor gear and harness safety How dog‑pull enhances bike traction and speed Pre-race preparation and warm‑up tactics Race event recap at Chepstow (NATB) Race‑day dynamics: overtaking, direction calls Finish results & reflecting on mindset Training takeaways post‑race Balancing dog’s fitness with self‑training Discussion: should dogs follow structured training plans? Fun rapid‑fire questions Key takeaways Introduce bikejor gradually; begin with canicross to build trust and communication. Harness sports can reveal and address dog behavioural issues. Bikejor enhances traction and fun, similar to e‑bike assistance. Direction cues (e.g. “left”, “right”) are crucial on technical courses. Partner motivation outweighs finishing position—dog‑led enjoyment matters most. Training both human and dog should focus on the weaker link first. Small, experienced‑led groups work best for beginners. Dogs don’t know race length—they'll give 100 % regardless. Our favourite quotes from the episode “It feels like you’re on rails when you go around the corner.” (Ryan) “It doesn’t matter whether you came first or last… you can see in her face she’s had the best time ever.” (Ryan) “The thing that helped me most was running with someone experienced—but not a big group.” (Ryan) “Dogs don’t know how far they're racing… they’re just there to give it their all.” (Ryan)   Links Ryan's Instagram page @scenicroute.adventures Nonstop dog-wear NATB dog sports events Episode 161 with Sarah on her first canicross race

Louise and Michelle catch up with BSSF Vice-President Howard Clark once again, to see how last season went, and what the future holds for canicross in the UK. Listen to our last chat with Howard in Episode 85

Dog selfies? Instagram and TikTok stars Fredrick and Royston, Golden Retriever brothers, are experts at them. We chat to their owner Hannah all about her Goldie social media stars. 

In today's episode we're joined by Belle from Canicross Midlands, who talks us through the rewards of marshalling at canicross races

In this deeply insightful episode of Canicross Conversations, hosts Louise Humphrey and Michelle Mortimer are joined once again by canicrosser and endurance athlete Tamara Beach to shine a spotlight on RED-S (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport). Returning after her first appearance in Episode 133, Tamara shares her personal journey through recognising, and recovering from, RED-S. The conversation is open, informative, and immensely relatable, breaking down medical jargon into real-life experiences. Tamara bravely discusses the physical and mental toll of under-fuelling in sport, her missteps with nutrition, and the pervasive influence of diet culture on female athletes. Listeners will gain a better understanding of how RED-S can manifest, why it’s not exclusive to elite or female athletes, and why proper fuelling – especially with carbohydrates and fats – is so essential. She also explains how she transitioned her mindset from restriction to recovery and performance sustainability, offering practical tips and encouragement for others who may be in similar positions. Whether you're a competitive canicrosser, recreational runner, or just trying to balance sport and well-being, this episode will resonate and inform. Tamara’s story is both a caution and a call to listen to your body and treat it with the respect it deserves.   Topics and timings 7.26 – introduction to RED-S and Tamara’s background 11.16 – understanding RED-S and energy deficiency explained 13.19 – early signs and influence of diet culture 15.07 – hidden symptoms and being on the pill 17.14 – fuelling myths and constant fatigue 19.14 – stress fracture as a wake-up call 22.13 – recovery approaches and baby steps 28.06 – navigating GP advice and diagnosis challenges 32.58 – medical tests, MRI and DEXA scan results 34.07 – realising individual ‘set points’ for body composition 35.33 – RED-S in sport: rock climbing and canicross examples 38.12 – spreading awareness and advice to others 42.54 – performance gains from consistent fuelling 45.02 – eating before morning training and second breakfasts 47.16 – wrap up and Tamara’s top advice for those who suspect RED-S

In this special episode of Canicross Conversations, hosts Louise and Michelle welcome back two popular guests: Georgie Lambert from Nonstop Dogwear and Katie Kirkup, founder of Trail Dog Events. Together, they unveil an exciting new venture: "Connect and Paws"—a human and dog wellness weekend set against the breath-taking backdrop of Druridge Bay, Northumberland from 4–6 July 2025.   Born from Katie's vision, and shaped into reality with Georgie’s support, this event invites the canicross and wider dog-loving community to take a break from the high-speed pace of life. Instead, it's all about slowing down, reconnecting with nature, bonding with your dog, and forming meaningful connections with others. Activities include morning cani-treks, yoga, Pilates, forest bathing, labyrinth walking, sound healing, photography walks, and expert talks on both human and dog nutrition. Designed for every type of dog and owner, whether you're a seasoned canicrosser or just enjoy a gentle stroll with your pup, there's something for everyone.   With limited spots available (only 50 tickets), this is an exclusive and intimate retreat. Expect live music, thoughtful journalling, delicious local street food, paddle boarding, and even glamping. It’s an immersive weekend designed to inspire mindfulness and wellness—for both ends of the lead.   Topics and timings 7.00 – Meet Georgie and Katie again 8.10 – The birth of Connect and Paws 9.05 – Why summer matters for community 10.50 – Event overview and intention 13.00 – Activities: from yoga to labyrinth walking 16.50 – Supporting dogs with space and respect 21.00 – Expert talks from Holly Barker and Renee McGregor 26.00 – What Georgie and Katie are most excited about 29.30 – Kit demos, community spirit, and good food Resources mentioned Episode 82 with Katie Episode 4 and 44 with Georgie   Links mentioned Connect and Paws: https://www.traildogevents.co.uk/connectandpaws Nonstop Dogwear: nonstopdogwear.com