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Informed by Science.
Driven by Dogs.

Evidence-based insights in canine sport science.
Supporting safer training, smarter handling, and stronger partnerships.

What you'll find here

Science

Grounded in sport science, this is a space for curiosity, and clarity. I share insights from my own research and from others, translating the best current evidence into practical takeaways you can actually use.

sport

With a PhD in sport science and 30 years in canine sport, I share insights from biomechanics, skill acquisition, and functional anatomy—turning research into strategies for safer, smarter performance.

safety

Rooted in the principles of evidence-based practice, I draw on research, lived experience, and what our dogs show us to help reduce injury risk and guide thoughtful choices in training, equipment, and course design.

Field Notes

Where curiosity meets experience.

Insights from canine sport science in motion.

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How to Practice So It Sticks (Part 1)

Muscle memory is a myth. And understanding how dogs (and handlers) actually learn can transform your training. This post unpacks the science behind lasting skill, from the power of deliberate practice to the role of variability, spacing, and real-time problem-solving in agility. It's the first in a two-part series on training for real-world performance, not just polished practice.
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Stretch, Don’t Snap.

Training isn’t about perfection. It’s where we stretch, stumble, and grow. This post explores five science-backed reasons to challenge yourself in practice, and how to stay in the learning zone without snapping under pressure.
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Why Slower Is Sometimes Smarter

What if the fastest way to improve agility performance isn't more reps—but better ones? Learn how speed and accuracy interact in canine skill development.
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What is sport science, really?

Sport science isn’t a method — it’s a mindset. In this post, I explore how a high-performance coaching model shaped my approach to training and why I believe it’s time to bring science and sport together for the dogs we love.
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Progress over Perfection

A reminder to ourselves and our dogs: start where you are, grow with care, and honour the process over the outcome.

Meet the Researcher

Hi, I’m Kim Cullen: kinesiologist, researcher, and lifelong dog sport nerd. Welcome to Canines in Motion, a space where science meets sport. With a PhD in sport science and 30 years in canine sport, I’ve built this site to help bridge the gap between research and real-life training.

I’m not here to sell a method or a product. I’m here to share what the evidence says and help us make better-informed choices for the dogs we love.

Here, you’ll find evidence-informed insights, practical tools, and a shared commitment to performance that puts canine well-being first.

Because work shouldn’t hurt. And that includes sport.

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