Stroller running is a great way to get back into running following the birth of your baby. Not only is it a great way to spend time with your child, it can also help you improve your fitness and mental health.
Unfortunately, it’s literally not a walk in the park. Many find it challenging to start stroller running with kids.
As a result, we’ve rounded up what new moms need to do to start stroller running!
7 Essential Tips for Stroller Running
1. Choose the Right Stroller for Jogging
If you’re looking for the best running stroller, chances are you will cover plenty of miles and it needs to be sturdy and durable.
Look for a stroller designed specifically for running, which will have the following features:
- air-filled tires,
- ability to fix the front wheel,
- and a hand brake for added control.
Consider factors such as the size, weight, and stability of the pram.
We recommend viewing our list of the best jogging strollers to find the one that suits your needs!
2. Safety Features in Jogging Strollers
Safety is number one when you’re out with your little one.
Straps
Make sure your stroller has adequate straps to hold your child in place.
Most running strollers come with a wrist strap to keep it from rolling away. Even if you don’t use it all the time, make sure to strap in when going downhill.
If yours doesn’t have one, it’s definitely gear worth investing into.
Covers
Check if your stroller offers enough protection from the elements.
Some prams come with rain covers, and have the option to add accessories such as extra-long hoods or sun shades.
A Fixed Front Wheel
Many strollers have a lockable front wheel, or clips to hold the front wheels in a straight position.
Locking the front wheel helps keep your stroller steady on uneven ground and prevents tipping.
It also makes running easier since you won’t have to fight to keep it straight.
Turning might feel a bit tricky at first, but jogging strollers are built for this. You’ll get used to it quickly!
3. Plan your route
As a mother, you fast become aware that you require a plan A, B and sometimes even a C!
Plan your route ahead of time and have a few options in case your child decides today isn’t the day for running.
- Pick a route with a smooth surface if possible.
- Avoid overly busy roads.
- But also try to pick a route with enough excitement to keep your child entertained.
- Try to avoid passing playgrounds until you’re ready to actually stop.
A great way to keep your little one happy is to stop halfway at a park or playground for a break.
Or, save the stop for the end of your run and reward yourself with a coffee at a café.
Remember, kids love routines! If a donut stop becomes a habit, you might find yourself paying for treats after every run. (Fun, but not exactly budget-friendly!)
4. Snacks and Cleanup
Speaking of donuts, every parent knows snacks are the lifeline of successful outings with children.
Have your snack stash handy in a bag or pram caddy, rather than hidden in the pram’s storage.
Some good snack ideas to take running with kids include:
- Fruit (bananas, apples, grapes)
- Crackers
- Granola bars
- Cheese sticks
- Squeeze pouches of yoghurt or fruit
- Small bags of biscuits
Choose snacks that are easy to throw in a bag and won’t make too much of a mess.
IN other words, these easy snacks for toddlers in strollers would be ideal!
Next to food, a mom’s best friend is a pack of wet wipes. You’ll be glad to have them when sticky hands or messy faces need a quick clean-up!
5. Toys for Stroller Running
Be prepared with toys that your child can easily hold and play with in the stroller such as small cars, books, etc.
Music is also a great distraction! Pop on some upbeat tunes, tuck your phone in a side pocket, and enjoy!
Just remember, avoid bringing anything too valuable.
You don’t want to retrace your entire route searching for a lost toy (we’ve all been there!).
If you’re feeling overwhelmed with your options, our guide to the 20 best stroller toys for toddlers is a great place to start looking!
6. Shoelaces or Bungee Cords for Toys
Tying toys and snacks to the stroller with shoelaces or bungee cords can be a game-changer.
No more constant stops to pick up dropped items, and your little one can grab what they need on their own.
One caveat is you have to start this habit early.
I tried tying my daughter’s cuddly teddy after we lost it a couple of times, and she refused to let me keep it tied up.
My runs are always spent anxiously and continuously checking whenever she is holding her cuddly as it’s highly sacred and the only one we have
7. Have a Flexible Schedule for Stroller Running
Realistically, not every day is going to be a good day for stroller running.
Sometimes your child just doesn’t want to be there. Take the pressure off both of you by setting realistic expectations.
Save stroller runs for easy-paced days. If possible, plan your high-intensity workouts for when you’re running solo.
Stroller Running Made Easy for Moms and Kids
Running with a stroller can take a while to get used to. For many moms, it’s a great way to stay active while bonding with their kids.
It does come with its own set of challenges, which you can overcome.
When picking a jogging stroller, focus on safety features that make running easier and stress-free.
Keep your child comfortable with a pacifier or toy secured with a handy bungee cord.
Pack snacks and wipes for quick fixes when hunger strikes. Your chosen route might not have a
Be flexible and plan for a route change. Some days, your baby just won’t be in the mood for a park run (or running just in general), and that’s okay!
Another thing, running prams can also be expensive. They’re often the second stroller for your household. You could consider purchasing second-hand if possible.
Lastly, there’s a reason why many athletes have chosen to push their children in running strollers as part of their training runs.
- Kara Goucher won several marathons while pushing her son in a stroller
- Stephanie Bruce completed marathons and half marathons pushing her children in a stroller
- Ryan Hall, a former Olympic marathon runner, pushed his daughter in a stroller during training runs and races
Whether you’re planning on running races or simply getting more active, stroller running can be incredibly beneficial if you are set up correctly.
