Stretch the adductors or groin area by holding near the inside of the hip and bringing the hip out to the side. Some dogs may be too focused on the course, but others may welcome the distraction. In a study examining different warmup protocols on fitness performance in children, it was concluded that it may be desirable to perform moderateto high-intensity dynamic exercises before performances requiring a high power output, such as jumping.5 For the dogs, performing lowered jumps before activity will assist in power output. Another study concluded that submaximum running and practice jumps had a positive effect if performed before static stretching, whereas static stretching alone had a negative influence on explosive force and jumping performance.6 One important point to remember from this report is that the entire warm-up process is a “team” project. It is important to follow all three steps for the performance dog involved in power activities. Dancing backward for warming up and cooling down Stretch the shoulder into extension or straighten it by holding behind the elbow and bringing the leg forward. Stretch the shoulder into flexion by holding in front of the elbow and bringing the leg backward. Stretch the digits out by bending and straightening the toes. Stretch the hip into extension ® www.cleanrun.com 48 Clean Run | April 07http://www.cleanrun.com