A WORCESTER instructor who helps people get healthy with their dogs is celebrating after winning a prestigious ukactive Award.

Abbie Hickinson, from Three Counties Canicross, runs DogFit classes across Worcester, Hereford and Gloucester helping people learn to walk or run hands-free with their dog using a special harness, bungee lead and Canicross waist belt.

DogFit was recognised at the ukactive Awards where they won Highly Commended in the Supplier of the Year category.

Abbie said: “It’s been so rewarding to have helped so many people learn about Canicross and enjoy getting out and getting fit with their dogs.

“Particularly in the last 18 months, the social aspect of the sessions has also had a positive impact on people’s mental health.

 

“Canicross is a great way to bond with your dog, have fun and meet new people and it’s wonderful to have won this award because more people can learn about the sport.”

This year’s awards recognised organisations demonstrating an exceptional response to Covid-19 helping get more people, more active, more often.

The award was presented by Paralympic champion and ukactive Chair, Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, and Olympian, Professor Greg Whyte.

Ginetta George, co-founder of DogFit, added: “We’re so happy to have Canicross recognised by ukactive as it raises awareness of the sport.

“This means more people learn ways to enjoy keeping fit and active with their dog; whether their goal is to simply enjoy the social side of the sport, run their first 5k or compete in events.

 “DogFit’s mission is to make Canicross as inclusive and accessible as possible by providing equipment and support via our instructor network.”

 Abbie runs both introduction to Canicross sessions and regular classes. To find out more, email info@threecountiescanicross.co.uk