Man’s best friend

HAVING A BALL Dogs loosen up at a special yoga class.

Photo: Judy Sutton Taylor

A chance to bring your dog along to the gym may be just be the incentive you both need to pry your hind quarters off the couch and get moving. Lakeshore Athletic Club’s Paws & Flow class is the perfect opportunity to sneak in a light workout along with some bonding time with our best four-legged friend. The monthly, one-hour “doggy flexibility and socialization” class—free and open to the public—is the brainchild of Roberta Duguid, general manager of the Illinois Center location, and instructor Becky Solomon. The two dog lovers were looking for a way to combine some quality canine time with a little personal exercise. LAC rolls out the red carpet for the pooches, providing loads of squeaky toys, treats and water for the free play that starts the sessions. Solomon follows that with some mat time, incorporating simple human stretching exercises with techniques that allow the dogs to relax. Classes are held in an indoor studio, or on the club’s rooftop deck when the weather cooperates. “We focus on movements that are designed to calm the dogs down, not just pats on the back and scratches beind the ears,” says Solomon. Her techniques seem to work—the class we attended with about 15 dogs was quiet during the stretching, save for a little heavy panting. And really, who better to help you perfect your downward dog than your own pup? Sign up early to reserve a spot for you and your dog at the next class, October 13 at noon, at Lakeshore Athletic Club Illinois Center (211 N Stetson Ave at Lake St). Reserve a spot by calling 312-616-9000, ext 280.