Ever get to the end of a dog agility trial weekend and feel like your legs are filled with cement? You’re not alone. Several handlers told me this weekend they wished they had more juice left in the tank by Day 2… or even halfway through Day 1.

The thing is, it’s not just about being “out of shape.” Agility trial weekends are uniquely exhausting. You’re mixing 10–18 sprints per day with what feels like endless walking, standing, waiting, and intense mental focus. That combo will wear down even the most conditioned dog handler.

But here’s the good news: you can train for this. The energy you want on Sunday? It starts with what you do on Monday.

Let’s break down what’s really draining your energy—and what to do about it—so you can finish your next weekend strong and fast.

Because, the energy you want on Sunday? It starts with the little things you do on Monday.

So let’s talk about what’s really draining your energy—and what to do about it.

Lack of Quality Sleep Before and During Trials

Sleep debt adds up fast, especially with early mornings, travel, and post-run adrenaline keeping you wired.
Action step: Prioritize rest leading into the trial. Go to bed 30–60 minutes earlier the week before, and create a wind-down routine post-run.

Stress and Social Fatigue

Even if you love the community, the constant stimulation of agility weekends—decision-making, crowds, and performance pressure—can drain your nervous system.
Action step: Schedule intentional downtime. Eat alone, take quiet walks, and use noise-canceling earbuds when you’re not on deck.

Poor Nutrition and Hydration

Many agility handlers run on caffeine, protein bars, and adrenaline… and wonder why they crash by Sunday.
Action step: Bring real meals. Prioritize carbs, protein, and consistent hydration throughout the day—especially if you’re doing multiple runs.

If you’re serious about improving your dog agility handling performance, you need sprint training in your weekly routine. Here’s why:

Build Repeat Sprint Endurance

Goal: Reduce the drop-off in speed and coordination by Run #6, 12, or 18.

Agility isn’t just one sprint. You’re running fast multiple times a day across different courses. Sprint training improves your ability to recover between efforts.

Improve Acceleration + Top-End Speed

Goal: Get faster starts and stronger movement = better course times.

Your lead-out, that full-send down a line, the push to the finish—it all requires explosive acceleration. Sprint drills help refine your power and mechanics.

Increase Resilience + Reduce Injury Risk

Goal: Make your body tough enough to handle trial weekends—fresh and pain-free by Day 3.

Most handler injuries happen when you’re tired and still trying to move fast. Sprint training under fatigue helps your body stay sharp and strong—even late in the weekend.

TWICE PER WEEK – Sprint Sandwiches

Build sprint capacity + recovery skills

• Warm-up: 5–10 min light cardio + dynamic mobility
• Beginner: 20m x 6, 90–120 sec rest between
• Intermediate: 50m x 6, 90–120 sec rest between
• Advanced: 100m x 6, 120 sec rest between
• Cool down: Easy walk, stretch, and a little pat on the back 😉

ONCE PER WEEK – Active Recovery + Mobility

Stay bendy, stay speedy

• Warm-up: Gentle walk or easy cycle (5–10 min)
• Mobility circuit: Hip openers, hamstring flossing, shoulder rolls
• Core work: Planks, bird-dogs, or just holding it together emotionally
• Optional: Light jog, swim, or chill agility session

P.S. If you’re in the All Access Pass, you have more advanced sprinting plans, and recovery strategies laid out for you. Go use them!

The energy you want on Sunday starts on Monday.

You don’t need to overhaul your life — just plug in this plan, take care of your sleep and stress, and give your body the tools it needs to finish strong.

Now, go build your engine.