Marketing & Communications
Division of University Relations and Development
News Release
|
SDSU Study Shows Man's Best Friend is Also Great Workout Partner Dog Owners Who Walk Their Dogs Weigh Less, Have Lower BMI
Contact: SAN DIEGO (Monday, June 4, 2007) —More evidence to suggest dogs make better pets than cats. Dori Rosenberg, a graduate student in San Diego State University’s joint doctoral program in clinical psychology found that dog owners who walk their dogs are more active and less overweight than those who don't. The study sampled 2,200 people, of which approximately one-third were dog owners. Of the dog owners, the two-thirds that walked their dog had a lower body mass index, weighing about six pounds less than dog owners who didn’t walk their dogs. In addition, of those who walked their dogs, 43 percent met the physical activity guidelines of 2 ½ hours per week (as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,) just by walking their dogs. Rosenberg presented her findings last week at the American College of Sports Medicine’s annual meeting in New Orleans. “It’s been shown that having social support helps people to achieve their fitness goals, but that doesn’t mean it has to come from another human,” said Rosenberg, whose research was done in collaboration with SDSU’s Neighborhood Quality of Life Studies. “This doesn’t mean everyone should go out and buy a dog, but if you have one you can use it as a source of encouragement when it comes to fitness and exercise.” The study, which took place in Seattle, Wash. and Baltimore, Md., found that those people who did not walk their dogs lived in suburban, “low walkable” areas compared to urban, more walkable areas.
In addition to better physical health, Rosenberg suggests that dog owners who walk their dogs may have stronger connections to their community. “Dog walking is something everyone can relate to,” Rosenberg said. “When you’re on that walk you meet other dog owners and foster relationships with people who can also serve to support an active lifestyle.” SDSU’s joint doctoral program in clinical psychology, of which Rosenberg is a student, is offered in collaboration with the University of California, San Diego. The program was ranked first in the nation in a recent report based on the FSP index published by the Chronicle of Higher Education. San Diego State University is the oldest and largest higher education institution in the San Diego region. Since it was founded in 1897, the university has grown to offer bachelor's degrees in 81 areas, master's degrees in 73 areas and doctorates (Ph.D, Au.D. and Ed.D.) in 16 areas. SDSU's more than 34,000 students participate in an academic curriculum distinguished by direct contact with faculty and an increasing international emphasis that prepares them for a global future. For more information, visit www.sdsu.edu. ### |
