In this episode of Canicross Conversations, Michelle and Louise chat to Jo from Dorwest, a leading natural pet supplement company with a deep history in herbal care. Jo shares the Dorwest journey, how their products support active dogs, and offers practical, evidence-based advice on keeping your canicross companion healthy. Listeners will gain insights into physical demands on dogs, early signs of stress or overuse, and what to do when your dog needs recovery support especially in peak mileage seasons. From mobility to calming aids, and even how to manage gut issues during race days, Jo’s expertise offers a holistic look at dog welfare in sport. You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at how Dorwest sources ingredients, works with vets, and develops products based on real-world feedback from working and sporting dogs. Whether you’re new to canicross or training at a high level, this conversation is packed with useful tips to help your dog thrive on and off the trails. 1.10 – the Dorwest story and Jo’s background5.50 – what canicross dogs need: joints, gut, stress & more11.40 – key products for active dogs: mobility, recovery, calming19.05 – common problems at races and how to support your dog26.15 – inside Dorwest: sourcing, safety, vet testing31.30 – Jo’s top 3 tips for dog wellbeing @dorwestherbs on Instagram & Facebook For 10% off at dorwest.com use code CANICROSS10

In this episode, Michelle and Louse chat to Jamie Stevenson, with a focus on the ICF World Championships last month, and his role in the BSSF as monosports rep.  Listen for behind‑the‑scenes insight into how the International Canicross Federation (ICF) World Championships work — from selection via the British Sleddog Sports Federation (BSSF), to the challenges of visas, travel, and dog‑friendly logistics across Europe. Jamie reflects on the highs and challenges of international competition — including the rush of a mass‑start, the thrill of representing Britain, and the necessary balance between competitive drive, dog welfare, and everyday life. We also hear live interviews with other British athletes gathered at the ICF World Championships by the BSSF. NB: Please note that Jamie refers to Seb Coe heading up British Orienteering, when he meant to say Steve Cram   Links:   ICF - https://canicross.international/ BSSF - https://thebssf.org.uk/  

  In this episode of Canicross Conversations, Louise and Michelle welcome Tony Leonard of Shoes to talk about the brand’s growing connection with the canicross community.   Tony shares his journey from competitive running to sports‑industry marketing and shoe development, explaining how VJ evolved from orienteering and fell shoes, into making models that canicrossers are now choosing. The discussion covers the technical details behind their designs — from studs and heel‑profiles to materials like butyl rubber and Schoeller Keprotec® uppers — and how this connects with the demands of running with dogs across muddy, mixed terrain.   Tony helps differentiate between the current line‑up (the MAXx 2, Ultra 3 and IRock 4) and previews a new “home to hill” model coming soon. He touches on sizing guidance, gender/fit considerations, how they are entering the canicross market, and how input from the community is shaping future development. Listeners are encouraged to try shoes with local retailers and feed back their experiences, as VJ hopes to eventually make a specific canicross‑shoe.   It's clear that for canicross runners — navigating slippery fields, wet rock and dog‑pull dynamics — the right footwear matters. Whether you’re seasoned or new to canicross, this is a welcome deep‑dive into how one brand is listening to the sport and adapting. Expect practical advice, product insight and a strong nod to community feedback.   Key take‑aways VJ Sports has moved from orienteering into trail/fell and now canicross‑relevant shoes by focusing on terrain‑specific grip (e.g., butyl rubber outsoles, variable stud lengths). Fit matters: multiple lasts (foot shapes) plus stud‑length differences (3 mm → 9 mm) mean choosing the right shoe for terrain and individual foot shape is important. Two contrasting models: a firmer, lower‑profile “race/technical” shoe (e.g., Max) vs a softer, higher‑cushion “longer run” shoe (e.g., Ultra) — both relevant, depending on run style. Canicrossers often face muddy, mixed‑terrain conditions with a pulling dog, so shoe demands differ from road running; community feedback is driving a bespoke “monster truck” future model for this niche. Try‑before‑you‑buy remains important, especially with trail/canicross shoes. Online reviews help but foot shape / terrain matter. Shoe care counts: wash with hot soapy water and air dry (avoid radiators/dryers) to extend lifespan of technical outsoles. Sizing guidance: VJ is “true to UK size” except one model (MAXx 2) which comes up a half‑size larger — always check empirically. Timings 1.04 – Introduction: Tony’s background & running history2.00 – Transition into sports industry & VJ entry3.30 – Why VJ is resonating in the canicross / off‑road world4.20 – Grip, studs and terrain: key shoe features6.00 – Material innovation: butyl rubber, uppers, durability7.30 – Sizing, fit and foot shape concerns9.10 – Fit guidance: road/trail crossover, cushioning vs studs11.00 – Canicross entry and why VJ decided to engage the sport13.00 – Current best‑selling models for canicrossers: iRock 4 etc15.10 – Sponsoring the British Sleddog Sports Federation (BSSF) series and community feedback17.00 – Practical shoe care advice and do’s/don’ts18.30 – Potential for future dedicated canicross shoe & how listeners can input20.00 – Final summary & how to contact VJ Sports / locate retailers     Links  VJ  Shoes Website @vjsportsshoes on Instagram BSSF race series

In this episode, Louise and Michelle are joined by Leasa, who tells us about her two whippets, Barley and Biscuit, as they have discovered the world of canicross over the last 18 months.   Leasa used to avoid sport altogether, but a simple Instagram reel introduced her into the warm‑hearted fold of a local canicross club, where encouragement and community helped her to grow not just as a runner, but also as a team with her dogs.   Leasa’s story shows that you don’t need to be an athlete to take part; with the right support, a few steps of kit, and a desire to just get out, it’s possible to join in and enjoy the ride.   If you’ve ever wondered whether canicross is for you or your dog, this episode is a warm invitation to try something new at your own pace.   Timings 00:01:24 – 00:02:03 – Lisa introduces herself, her dogs Barley (3) and Biscuit (2), and how the journey began. 00:02:03 – 00:03:03 – Lisa talking about her mental rut, the Instagram reel, and joining a local canicross club. 00:03:03 – 00:04:08 – Early struggles with Couch‐to‑5K, joining social runs, and how the club helped. 00:04:08 – 00:05:01 – The welcome, supportive culture of the club; no one gets left behind. 00:05:01 – 00:07:00 – How the dogs got into it: Barley’s progression, Biscuit’s natural pull, the feeling of working as a team. 00:07:00 – 00:10:30 – Race stories: first event experience, the joy of finishing, the difference between a “race” and “an event you enjoy”. 00:10:30 – 00:12:11 – Dog behaviours: reactivity, start‑line nerves, and how events accommodate that. 00:12:11 – 00:16:10 – Running with dogs vs running solo: the difference, the benefit of solo sessions, the concept of “easy runs”. 00:16:10 – 00:20:05 – Goals: signed up for 10 K, training together, accepting your pace, moving more and more. 00:20:05 – 00:25:00 – Motivation, how to start: tip to “just do it”, find a local club, support matters.     Lisa’s Instagram: @run_with_biscuit_and_barley

  Michelle and Louise are joined by Brigid, a relatively new canicross enthusiast based in Ireland, who shares her journey with her Border Collie, Corvo.   Brigid adopted Corvo - her first dog - during lockdown, and soon discovered the demands of a high‑energy collie. She found her way into the canicross community, but then tragedy struck ....   Corvo was involved in a serious accident, where his leg was fractured. Brigid and Corvo are currently adapting to rehab and recovery, but they have big goals for when Corvo is recovered. A great lesson in patience, and hope.   Timings: 1.10 – introduction to Brigid & Corvo2.34 – adjusting to life with a high‑energy Border Collie4.20 – discovering canicross and joining the club7.30 – starting running habit with dog, kit early stage10.33 – first race experience and commitment12.08 – the accident: how it happened14.00 – immediate response, vet care and concerns16.30 – specialist hospital and rehab plan20.23 – building muscle, controlled rehab with the physio24.00 – keeping Corvo mentally engaged during limited physical activity27.45 – why core strength and strength training matter for dog sport31.05 – habit formation, goal‑setting, moving forward34.43 – Harness the Expert: building core strength37.15 – how Pilates / short sessions fit into busy life41.00 – closing thoughts & how to follow Brigid's journey   Useful links Instagram account: @RunningWithCrows Canicross Ireland Stop Walking Your Dog book Podcast episode 108 (March 2024) with Niki French Membership: Pilates / strength training membership offered by Louise Humphrey

In this episode, Louise and Michelle are joined by Anna Pollard of The Dog House Canine Spa in Leicestershire to explore how best to care for your dog’s coat, especially when you’re into canicross and other active dog sports. Anna shares her insights from years of grooming experience, explaining why proper maintenance of the coat and skin isn't just cosmetic but a key part of your dog’s wellbeing and performance. The conversation covers coat types (single vs double coat), grooming routines for active dogs, the role of brushing and bathing, pad and nail care, seasonal changes, and much more. Whether you’re a seasoned canicrosser or just beginning to run with your dog, this episode offers practical tips to help your canine companion feel and perform at their best — and maybe convert a non‑groomer into a regular brusher! Expect to learn how coat condition affects temperature regulation, how friction from harnesses can lead to matting, and how pad health and nails tie into overall musculoskeletal wellbeing. Timings 0:00 – Introduction  1:40 – Why grooming is important for active/canicross dogs 3:15 – How a coat works: insulation, heat regulation 5:45 – Brushing vs clipping: which to choose? 7:50 – Harness friction and matting danger zones 10:00 – Coats types: single vs double vs hybrid 12:30 – What is hand‑stripping and when to consider it 16:15 – How often should you brush and bathe? 20:20 – Choosing shampoos & avoiding human products 22:50 – After muddy runs: rinse or bathe? 24:30 – Nail length, pad health & impact on joints/gait 28:10 – Seasonal coat length and shedding challenges 31:00 – Heating, fleas and indoor environment effects 33:40 – Harness the expert: starting canicross: gear, pace, where to train 37:10 – Closing discussion & guest contact info 40:00 – Outro and call for reviews Links The Dog House Canine Spa website thedoghouseleicester.co.uk Instagram: @thedoghouse_spa Facebook: The Dog House Canine Spa

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