Instructor: Shane McConnell
Building on your Agility Foundations, this conditioning intensive course is designed to bridge the gap between basic groundwork and the physical demands of obstacle performance. By combining the world-renowned jumping mechanics of Susan Salo with the evidence-based canine fitness protocols of McIntyre, we ensure your dog develops the power, form, and structural integrity needed for a long, healthy career in agility.
Course Overview
Agility is a high-impact sport. Jump Fit focuses on the "how" of jumping—teaching dogs how to judge distance, weight shift, and use their bodies efficiently before they ever face a full-height course. This class isn't just about clearing bars; it’s about building a balanced athlete.
Salo Grids & McIntyre Fitness
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Improving "body awareness" and foot placement. |
Set-Point Work: Teaching the dog where to take off and land. |
Extension & Collection: Mastering the gears of canine movement.
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Consistency: Fewer knocked bars and safer landings. |
Injury Prevention: Strengthening the core and stabilizer muscles. |
Confidence: A dog that understands their own physical reach.
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The Jump Fit Curriculum
Foundation Grids (Susan Salo): We utilize low-impact jumping grids to instill proper muscle memory. Your dog will learn to focus on the bar, adjust their stride, and develop a "round" jumping arc without the pressure of handler motion.
Targeted K9 Fitness (McIntyre): Using specialized equipment (balance pods, discs, and planks), we focus on core stability, rear-end awareness, and joint health.
Progressive Skills: We use a clear, step-by-step progression. We start with flatwork and "ground bars" to ensure your dog understands the criteria before increasing complexity.
Prerequisites
Completion of Agility Foundations, CGC (Canine Good Citizen), or S.T.A.R. Puppy.
Alternatively, an instructor evaluation may be requested for teams with equivalent experience.
