Structure & process
The programme is built in three consecutive parts, each bookable on its own. Together they give you a thorough understanding of canine fitness and the practical skills to apply it.
Part 1 – Online theory & practice
The online course combines theory and practice in 20 modules. It takes about 6 months, and you have access for 12 months. Our community and a group call on Zoom every second Monday support you along the way. Once you pass the theory and practical tests, you receive a certificate of participation.
Part 2 – Workshop
In the three-day workshop you put your knowledge into practice under the guidance of an experienced coach. You deepen your skills in intensive training sessions and connect with like-minded people and experts. The workshop is required for certification. You need to have completed Part 1.
You receive a certificate of participation.
Part 3 – Certification
Certification takes about three months. You create three case studies in which you apply what you have learned on your own. After presenting a case study and passing an oral exam, you receive your certificate. It confirms your competence in canine fitness and marks your start as a qualified canine fitness coach. You need to have completed Parts 1 and 2.
You receive an FXF certificate.
Content
20 modules of theory & practice
You work individually, at your own pace and your dog’s, so you can adapt to whatever life throws at you. At the same time, we give you a framework that keeps you motivated and on track. This balance of freedom and structure helps you reach your potential and your goals.
- Theory and practice: video, text and downloads. One module is unlocked every week.
- Group calls: a Zoom call with the group every 2 weeks, 10 calls in total (no calls over Christmas and New Year). Taking part is optional but highly recommended. Calls take place on Mondays, alternating between morning and evening, and are recorded.
- Certificate of participation: available to download once you pass the exams.
- Workshop: offered 1–2 times a year, Friday to Sunday.
- Certification: starts after the workshop and takes about 3 months. Once you complete it, we are happy to add you to our coach list.
Please note: the course content is in German.
Online Module - Theory
Welcome
Welcome
Everything you need to know about how the coaching works.
Introduction
Introduction
Introduction to the theory part.
Canine fitness basics
Canine fitness basics
Everything you need to know about why we do canine fitness.
Movement
Movement
- How a dog moves and what to look out for
- Directional terms
Anatomy
Anatomy
- Musculoskeletal system (active/passive)
- Joints
- Muscles
- Muscle work
Evaluation
Evaluation
- Posture
- Forelimbs
- Hindlimbs
- Trunk
- Angulation
- Breed specifics
Assessment
Assessment
- Age
- Fitness test
Introduction to canine fitness
Introduction to canine fitness
- What is training?
- Warm-up
- Cool-down
- Rewards
- Markers
- Fatigue
- Types of training
- Intensifiers
Exam
Exam
A multiple-choice test on what you have learned. Limited retakes possible.
Online Module- Practice
Basic exercises 1
Basic exercises 1
- 6 basic exercises
Basic exercises 2
Basic exercises 2
- 3 more basic exercises
Position changes
Position changes
- 5 exercises
Forelimbs
Forelimbs
- How the forelimbs work
- 5 forelimb exercises
Hindlimbs
Hindlimbs
- How the hindlimbs work
- 5 hindlimb exercises
Trunk
Trunk
- How the trunk works
- 8 trunk exercises
Stabilisation
Stabilisation
- Applying stabilisation exercises
Workouts
Workouts
- 10 ready-made routines: full body, forelimbs, hindlimbs
Group training
Group training
- How to set up group training
- Group or individual? Pros and cons
Dog sports
Dog sports
- Load zones
- Jumping
- Guest coach: CCFT Jennifer Käferböck (warm-up, additional exercises)
Exam
Exam
A multiple-choice test on what you have learned. Limited retakes possible.
Your coach. Your expert.
Katharina Mattioli
Certified canine physiotherapist | Certified dog trainer | C.C.F.T. Certified Canine Fitness Trainer
Dogs, canine fitness and equipment are my passion. For more than 12 years I have supported dog owners, trainers and therapists on their canine fitness journey.
In 2012 I founded Flexiness® Canine Fitness Equipment to make training with professional equipment better, safer and more effective. At the same time, I started developing my own canine fitness programme, FlexinessXFitness®. It matters to me that people and their dogs train correctly. I help dogs of every age, breed and size improve their physical and mental performance and lower their risk of injury in everyday life and in sport.
My areas of expertise are prevention, rehabilitation and handling. My focus is on good posture and harmonious teamwork through body language.
Testimonials
Sonja Rauscher, Austria
“The additional training as a FlexinessXFitness canine fitness coach was a real enrichment. Extensive and interesting theory, plus practical units where every exercise came with detailed explanation videos. In the regular Zoom meetings we discussed our questions and shared experiences with the whole group. The workshop in Switzerland was worth the long journey: we practised together, swapped dogs and got professional feedback. I find the Flexiness® equipment very practical to use and really well thought out. Working on the certificate was great fun, and I learned a lot about filming, which helped me optimise my training even further, including with my own dog. I can really recommend this course with Katharina, a wonderful trainer.”
Klara Oppenheim, Austria
“As a fitness trainer, you should never stop developing. Looking for new input, I searched beyond Austria and found Katharina's FlexinessXFitness programme. I had followed Katharina on social media for a while and liked the work she does with her dogs. She often has ideas ‘out of the box’ and is more innovative than anyone when it comes to new fitness equipment for dogs. The content really interested me, and even after several years of canine fitness experience I still learned something new. The regular live meetings in particular were a great way to stay motivated and connect with like-minded people. Meeting in person in Switzerland was another highlight: no question went unanswered. I enjoyed the training so much that I went on to complete the coach programme with Katharina. I warmly recommend FlexinessXFitness to anyone who already has fitness experience or wants to dive deep into canine fitness.”
What we train
Body awareness
Body awareness contributes to better posture, balance and coordination. It is key to improving overall fitness and reducing the risk of injury.
Coordination
The ability to use different muscle groups and joints together to perform precise, controlled movements. It is needed in many activities and sports.
Focus
Keeping focus and concentration under challenging conditions makes performance more consistent and can raise it.
FAQ
Do I need special equipment?
Do I need special equipment?
You don't need anything specific to start. During the course you will find out which equipment suits your training best. If you need help, I am available personally, or you can discuss it in our community. It matters to me that professionals work with professional equipment designed for dogs. We also show you how to train effectively on a limited budget.
Do I have to submit videos of my work?
Do I have to submit videos of my work?
No submission is required in Part 1. I do encourage everyone to share videos of their work in the community so we can discuss and learn from each other.
Do I have to complete the programme with just one dog?
Do I have to complete the programme with just one dog?
In Part 1 we recommend working with as many different dogs as possible, because every dog is different. Especially if you want to make canine fitness your profession, it is important not to work only with your own dog. That way you build a broader understanding of the needs of different breeds and personalities.
Do I need any prior knowledge?
Do I need any prior knowledge?
No. Everyone interested in canine fitness is welcome. Experience in dog training helps: with some basic knowledge you will find your way around the course content faster.
My dog has a pre-existing condition. Can I still take part?
My dog has a pre-existing condition. Can I still take part?
In canine fitness we work only with healthy dogs or dogs that a vet has explicitly cleared for active exercise. We don't carry out therapy; we may be brought in after therapy to help rebuild the dog. Participants who are therapists or vets themselves can apply parts of the programme to dogs with therapeutic needs within their professional practice.
Is the programme suitable for dogs of every size?
Is the programme suitable for dogs of every size?
Yes. The exercises and equipment setups are designed for dogs of every size. In the videos we deliberately show exercises and setups for both small and large dogs, so you can apply the right techniques safely and effectively.
FlexinessXFitness® Canine Fitness Coaching
Places per course are limited.
The next start date is available on request.
After you register you receive a confirmation and your place is reserved. Your place is guaranteed once payment is received. You will get all onboarding information in good time before the course starts.
