Running with a baby stroller
Running with a baby stroller might seem pretty straightforward and simple – heck, why do I need instructions on how to run with a stroller?
Well, it’s not as easy and simple as you may think. There are some guidelines and tips you should follow when going jogging with your baby in the stroller to make your life easier and above all ensure the safety of your baby and yourself.
10 Tips for running with a baby stroller
Staying in shape after you had your baby can be a challenge but it’s certainly more than possible with a proper workout routine and a healthy diet. Jogging with a baby stroller is the perfect way to combine fitness and spending time with your baby. Read on to find out the top 10 tips for when jogging with a stroller
1) Push the stroller with one hand
I bet you were under the impression that you need to push the stroller with both hands when jogging (or are already doing so); well, you’d be wrong.
Jogging baby strollers are designed to be pushed with one hand when running or jogging and with two hands only when walking.
You need to keep one hand free so that it maintains the natural swinging motion as you run. Using both hands will make them stiff and it can damage your forearms and shoulders.
2) Change hands every 10-15 minutes
This is an extension of the previous tip. As you should be using only one hand to push the stroller around while jogging, you should change hands every 10 to 15 minutes to ensure that both arms get the same workout and you don’t strain one more than the other.
On average, changing hands every 10 to 15 minutes tends to work for most people but feel free to change the timings to adjust it to your preference – as long as both hands are used the same time.
3) Maintain the correct posture
Maintaining the right posture when jogging with a stroller is extremely important to protect your lower back and waist from injuries and for stability reasons.
When you run, push your check out, keep the shoulder blades in and down and keep an upright position. Avoid hunching over the the buggy and keep your elbow soft (don’t stiffen up) following the natural swinging of your body while running.
4) Use a safety harness
All the jogging strollers come with a multi-point safety harness for your baby. Ensure that it’s properly strapped and that all locking points are secured to protect your child from getting shaken of falling off the stroller.
5) Protect your baby from the elements
Unfortunately not all year round is sunny and warm outside and depending on where you live it can get cold, start drizzling or get windy.
Use the built-in canopy, cover and/or umbrella when needed to protect your baby from any adverse weather conditions. Always pack an extra blanket and some warmer baby clothes in the stroller storage space.
6) Buy a specialist running baby stroller
There are numerous baby strollers on the market but if you intend on running with it, then you need to buy a stroller that specifically designed for running.
Running strollers offer easier manoeuvrability, they usually utilize a three-wheel system to allow for sharper turns and easier navigation, come with wheel suspension to ensure a smooth and comfortable ride for your baby and they are more lightweight while maintaining a highly sturdy construction.
7) Stay away from busy streets with cars
This may go without saying but find some routes that keep you and your baby off busy streets and car roads. You can’t effectively run on sidewalks (depending on how busy your neighborhood is so you need to find the quietest streets and areas you can.
Parks, rural areas, recreation paths and playgrounds are all excellent options. You also want to steer clear of steep hills. Scan the areas near your home for such places and map out some paths so that you can mix it up every time you go jogging with the stroller.
8) Your baby should be 6 months or older
Generally it’s not advised to run with your baby she is under 6 months because she doesn’t have full head control yet. If she’s under 6 months old her neck muscles haven’t developed enough yet to support her head so there’s a risk of hurting her head, neck or back from the bumps.
9) Adjust the handlebar height and angle
Most baby strollers come with an adjustable handlebar. Before you go out jogging with the stroller you need to properly adjust the handlebar’s height so that you don’t have to hunch or stretch to comfortably hold it. It should feel natural and effortless. Before buying a running baby stroller always doublecheck that it features an adjustable handlebar.
10) Lock the front wheel
When you first start jogginng and running with a stroller you’ll notice that its puts strain on your forearms when turning and navigating it. If you lock the front wheel the handling will become easier and less intense for your muscles and joints and also it will be safer for your baby as a locked wheel will prevent the stroller from turning abruptly and crashing.
Sandra has over 13 years of experience as a child psychologist, both as a practitioner and researcher. She has a Bachelor's in child psychology from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor and then she did her master's in Psychology in Education (focused on Children & Families) at Columbia University, NY. She has been writing for health and child-related publications for over 5 years now.
