The Athlete's Foot MyFit
Our MyFit Blog aims to engage and inform so that we can collectively empower everyday athletes to better their best with every run.
Guide to running with a stroller
When you’re a busy parent with a toddler or baby, juggling work, life and everything that comes your way, finding time for exercise and physical activity can be tough. Incorporating the kids into your workouts can be a straightforward way to increase family bonding whilst keeping you fit and healthy. One of these ways is by investing in a jogging stroller and taking the kids out with you when you run.
Jogging strollers are purposely designed for running with your child, with added comfort for the little one whilst you’re running. Although it looks like a regular stroller, a running stroller includes unique features including larger wheels and added suspension. The aim is to remain steady and offer as much stability for baby as possible.
Check out our tips below to learn all about running with a stroller!
You’ll want to make sure the kiddo you plan to jog with is developmentally ready for the turns, stops and accelerations of a stroller run, walk before you run is key here – we advise that you get clearance from your family doctor. General rule of thumb would suggest your child can is able to hold their head up and sit up unassisted. Strong neck control for babies is important for these kinds of activities.
You’ll also want to make sure you’re physically ready too, especially if you’re a mum who recently gave birth, or you’re a dad who is brand new to running. For new mums, it’s worth waiting for your 6-week post-birth check up with the doctor to give you the all clear for exercising safely.
Before you even crack the stroller out, test out some solo runs without the stroller first to get yourself and fitness levels to a reasonable standard is recommend as well as initially testing short walks (not running) with your new stroller to help the little one get used to it too.
To get ready for running with the stroller itself, why not try out some intervals first? Walking for two minutes and then running for two minutes can help you learn pacing. You’ll also find you need to take shorter running strides when you’re stroller jogging (so your feet don’t knock into the safety bar at the wheels). You’ll also find you might need to get used to a drop in resistance when you’re running too. Ensuring you continue to build on developing your core muscles can assist with this.
Whilst you’re probably raring to go and get racing around that local park that’s 20km away, it’s probably more ideal to first run some loops of your block when you’re starting out, so you’re closer to home. The more used to the stroller your kid gets, the more adventurous you can be in terms of running location.
Getting your baby secure in the running stroller is vital from a safety perspective. Before you set off, ensure that that there is a finger space of room between your child’s chest and shoulders and the stroller straps. Not only does it mean they will be kept in place, the straps should also minimise impact on any unsteady obstacles like rocks or curbs. If they’re still really young, infant inserts will also help keep them cosy and comfy.
It goes without saying you should be keeping tabs on how your baby is doing, singing songs and simple things like pointing out birds and trees can do wonders for their development whilst keeping their brain occupied. Don’t forget to pack snacks, water and milk for them where necessary. It could even be worth stopping for a break and letting them have a little play in the grass to give them a break from the stroller.
If it’s summer, make sure your kid is definitely wearing sunscreen, sunglasses and sun hat. In colder weather, adding layers, a warm hat and blanket can keep them wrapped up safe from the elements.
Unless you are running uphill, or on unsteady terrain, we definitely recommend alternating the hand you’re using to push the stroller whilst letting the other arm swing and switch each minute. This should help to keep your back muscles steady.
If you’re running around a local park, the beauty is being able to park up and take a little break with the little one whenever you feel fatigued. Most strollers come with storage under the seat so you can not only pack spare nappies and toys, but you can also stock up on snacks too.
The Asics Gel Kayano 30 and HOKA Clifton range of shoes are ideal road running sneakers that offer elevated levels of stability, leading running technology and reliable performance supporting runners every step of the way.
Disclaimer: The content in this blog is not designed to give medical advice, we always advise that you consult with a GP before embarking on any specific physical activity involving yourself or relevant family members.
Jogging strollers are purposely designed for running with your child, with added comfort for the little one whilst you’re running. Although it looks like a regular stroller, a running stroller includes unique features including larger wheels and added suspension. The aim is to remain steady and offer as much stability for baby as possible.
Check out our tips below to learn all about running with a stroller!
Before you start
You’ll want to make sure the kiddo you plan to jog with is developmentally ready for the turns, stops and accelerations of a stroller run, walk before you run is key here – we advise that you get clearance from your family doctor. General rule of thumb would suggest your child can is able to hold their head up and sit up unassisted. Strong neck control for babies is important for these kinds of activities.
You’ll also want to make sure you’re physically ready too, especially if you’re a mum who recently gave birth, or you’re a dad who is brand new to running. For new mums, it’s worth waiting for your 6-week post-birth check up with the doctor to give you the all clear for exercising safely.
Before you even crack the stroller out, test out some solo runs without the stroller first to get yourself and fitness levels to a reasonable standard is recommend as well as initially testing short walks (not running) with your new stroller to help the little one get used to it too.
Adjusting your running style for stroller running
To get ready for running with the stroller itself, why not try out some intervals first? Walking for two minutes and then running for two minutes can help you learn pacing. You’ll also find you need to take shorter running strides when you’re stroller jogging (so your feet don’t knock into the safety bar at the wheels). You’ll also find you might need to get used to a drop in resistance when you’re running too. Ensuring you continue to build on developing your core muscles can assist with this.
Plan your route wisely!
Whilst you’re probably raring to go and get racing around that local park that’s 20km away, it’s probably more ideal to first run some loops of your block when you’re starting out, so you’re closer to home. The more used to the stroller your kid gets, the more adventurous you can be in terms of running location.
Make sure the child is secure.
Getting your baby secure in the running stroller is vital from a safety perspective. Before you set off, ensure that that there is a finger space of room between your child’s chest and shoulders and the stroller straps. Not only does it mean they will be kept in place, the straps should also minimise impact on any unsteady obstacles like rocks or curbs. If they’re still really young, infant inserts will also help keep them cosy and comfy.
Make it fun for the little one.
It goes without saying you should be keeping tabs on how your baby is doing, singing songs and simple things like pointing out birds and trees can do wonders for their development whilst keeping their brain occupied. Don’t forget to pack snacks, water and milk for them where necessary. It could even be worth stopping for a break and letting them have a little play in the grass to give them a break from the stroller.
Keep your kid appropriately dressed for the weather.
If it’s summer, make sure your kid is definitely wearing sunscreen, sunglasses and sun hat. In colder weather, adding layers, a warm hat and blanket can keep them wrapped up safe from the elements.
Try running with one hand on the stroller where you can.
Unless you are running uphill, or on unsteady terrain, we definitely recommend alternating the hand you’re using to push the stroller whilst letting the other arm swing and switch each minute. This should help to keep your back muscles steady.
Remember to take breaks and rest – and pack the essentials.
If you’re running around a local park, the beauty is being able to park up and take a little break with the little one whenever you feel fatigued. Most strollers come with storage under the seat so you can not only pack spare nappies and toys, but you can also stock up on snacks too.
Invest in a decent pair of running shoes.
It goes without saying that you need to make sure your running shoes are equipped to deal with running with your children – whether you’re mostly running on flat surfaces or slightly more rugged terrain – look to kit yourself out from our range of shoes.The Asics Gel Kayano 30 and HOKA Clifton range of shoes are ideal road running sneakers that offer elevated levels of stability, leading running technology and reliable performance supporting runners every step of the way.
Disclaimer: The content in this blog is not designed to give medical advice, we always advise that you consult with a GP before embarking on any specific physical activity involving yourself or relevant family members.
