Heelwork to Music
Heelwork to Music (HTM) is a relatively recent competitive sport in which participants devise routines of up to four minutes, set to music, and perform the routines with their dog. HTM is divided into two categories - Heelwork to Music and Freestyle - and most shows stage official classes in both categories.
Heelwork to Music derived originally from the set exercises forming the heelwork component of competitive Obedience, with a musical backing, but it quickly grew into a much more demanding and creative discipline. The introduction of Freestyle - routines interpreting the music in which predefined heelwork movements form only a third or less of the total - added still further to the growing appeal of the sport.
Heelwork to Music has a wide range of facets, from a creative 'play' environment where pet owners develop a bond with their dogs, to opportunities for more competitive training and competition, to an enthralling and moving spectator event. At its best an HTM routine can be quite breathtaking - as anyone who has witnessed the 'Best in Show' evening at Crufts in recent years must be aware.
Heelwork to Music Photos & Videos
View Heelwork to Music photos from Crufts on Flickr
Watch Heelwork to Music on the Crufts.tv website
Watch Heelwork to Music on the Crufts YouTube channel
Heelwork to Music Beginner's Guide
If you are just starting out in Heelwork to Music or would simply like a bit more information to help you find out more about this activity you can visit the Getting started in Heelwork to Music page and you can also download our free Heelwork to Music Beginner's Guide (PDF).
Keep up to date on Heelwork to Music
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Canine Sports Science Seminars
The Kennel Club is hosting a series of seminars which explore best practice when taking part with your dog in active sports such as obedience, agility, heelwork to music, flyball, working trials or field trials, and for treating and preventing any possible injuries taking a holistic approach.
Each seminar includes a number of presentations on different techniques and disciplines and their roles in the treatment of the canine athlete.
Click here for full details of the next two seminars on Saturday and Sunday, 30 and 31 October 2010
