Member Question: Jogging Stroller Advice

We LOVE getting questions from our followers! The most recent one aimed at me was advice on running with a jogging stroller, specifically a double jogging stroller. Here you go:

First of all: SAFETY

This goes without saying to mothers, but sometimes we don't know all the steps we should take to maximize safety.

• If the jogging stroller offers a wrist strap: use it! I'm sure I'm not the only one that foregoes the safety clip on the treadmill, but this is not an area to skimp on, especially if you are running in a semi-hilly area.
• Run iPod free. When running with your children, you want to know everything going on around you, not be sidetracked by your throwback Thursday playlist of N'Sync and Hanson. (oh, just me?) I have friends who use a blue tooth speaker. That is a great compromise, and chances are, your kids will like it, too.
• When you stop, lock the wheels. Jogging strollers come with wheel locks for a reason. If you are bending over to tie your shoe, you don't want to stand up to your stroller rolling away.
• Run where there is room for you. Jogging strollers, especially the double-wides, take up a lot of space. A paved bike trail is ideal, but we all know ideal isn't always reality. For the life of your stroller and the necks of your kids, at least find somewhere without too many jolts and jerks. A quiet side road with a wide walking/biking lane is great.
• Pay attention to the forecast. Remember, your kids aren't running, they are sitting. This can mean that a warm day isn't as hot for them or that a cool day is much colder. Bundle them accordingly

Make sure you run with water. You are going to pushing quite a bit more than you realize and really busting out a workout. Hydrate. Hydrate. Hydrate.

Let go of our pace expectations. I am a somewhat obsessive runner when it comes to pace. My Nike+ app is always glowing on my armband and I check it at least 4 times/mile to see my pace. Knock that off. You aren't going to run fast. You're pushing a load of bricks on wheels. Go you.

If you are pushing a jogging stroller, chances are your kids are at the age of having the attention span of a goldfish. Take things to keep them occupied. I have friends who use bubbles, books, snacks, and the aforementioned music. Anything to keep you from regretting leaving the house.

Because of their short attention span and your Hercules-like effort, it may be helpful to do a "destination run" to a rest area, such as a local park. Let the kids stretch their legs, and let yourself recharge.

Running posture is much different with a jogger. For a single jogger, it can be helpful to push with one hand and pump the other to give your run a more "normal" feel. This can be a bit more tricky with a double jogger, and, quite frankly, I wouldn't suggest it unless you have the biceps of Hulk Hogan. In that case, push with both hands, but DO NOT lean into the handles. Keep your posture as close to a non-jogger run as possible.

Because every child, parent, and jogging stroller are different, this is just a guideline, but it is a good idea to not take your infant on a run before 8 months old. The reason for this is because their neck muscles are fairly weak before then. If you have an awesome, smooth bike trail you an take, chances are, baby will be fine to start a little sooner. If you are running on a sidewalk that resembles a miniature version of the Rockies, wait a bit.

Finally, if you are running with a jogging stroller: Way to Go! You are allowing yourself to take care of you. Kudos.

Until next time,
Lady Runner