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An older man sits cross-legged on a floor mat doing an arm stretch while a red and white Husky lies stretched out beside him. 16 / 34

Grandpa Rolled Out His Mat for Evening Stretches. Copper Joined the Class His Own Way.

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The lamp is glowing in the corner, slippers are kicked off by the couch, and Grandpa Hank has rolled out a gray mat on the living room floor. He sits cross-legged in his overalls, one arm pulled across his chest in a slow shoulder stretch, glasses slipping a little down his nose. Copper has joined the session in his own way. The Husky lies flat on the mat with his front legs extended long in front of him, chin low, as if this is his interpretation of the routine. A potted plant and a stack of magazines sit nearby on the floor.

Gentle stretching is one of the easiest ways for older adults to stay limber, and having a dog around can make it more fun and more consistent. Dogs naturally stretch too, often when they first wake up, with the classic front-down, rear-up bow that people sometimes call the downward dog. Stretching helps a dog's muscles warm up before activity. For an active breed like a Husky, a short warm-up before a run and a slow cool-down walk afterward are both helpful habits. For people, it is always wise to start slowly and check with a doctor before beginning a new exercise routine, especially after an injury.

Copper may not count reps or hold the poses as long as Hank, but he is undeniably committed to being on the mat.

A workout buddy who never cancels and never complains is a pretty great thing to have in the living room.

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