Stroller Running - Extra Fun (and resistance!) on the Run!
STROLLER RUNNING can be a great opportunity to get a workout in, (with some extra resistance training!) get some fun bonding and outdoor time in with our child(ren), knock out multiple tasks at once like using the run as a daycare drop off or a trip to the store for a few small things, or maybe get your baby to take that reliable, motion induced nap. Whatever reason you have for heading out with your little one, many of us really love our stroller runs!
Some things to keep in mind as you head out the door with your little ones:
1 - Not all strollers are built alike. Even some with the words jog or jogger in the name aren’t built for this. Make sure you get one specifically for running. It may set you back a bit more but they tend to be incredibly durable and easy to maneuver. Check your neighborhood list serv for a used model if you’re looking to save a bit of cash - often people are willing to part with these for nearly half what you'd pay full retail. I love the Thule Urban Glide and am planning on getting the double for baby #2. A good rule of thumb: if the tires don't inflate with a pump, it's probably not ideal for running.
2- Check with your doctor for when you can start your little one running. Car seat adapters can allow you to run (carefully and with full stops over bumps) a little sooner than the recommended 6-8 month time frame. But always default to your pediatrician! There are several factors in a baby's development that dictate this timeframe and it's different for everyone. You can walk with a carseat adapter in anytime from birth (allowing you to dual-purpose your running stroller), but moving faster carries more risk to little ones with less neck stability.
3 - Pushing a stroller alters your gait. Be mindful of this and alternate which arm holds the bar, focusing on your foot strike, your arm motion of the moving arm, and your posture (slightly forward leaning) as much as you can. Be especially careful on steep downhills and remember to hold the emergency strap if you have one, especially if you're running on urban streets where hills often end in intersections.
4 - It’s HARD! Be forgiving with yourself and take breaks, walk hills, and scale back your pace. Don't check your watch and try to crush Strava segments - take this as a different opportunity to get some slower paced, harder resistance work in.
5- Keep your stroller stocked with all your baby/child’s needs- and yours: multiple snacks and/ or bottles, water, blankets or a bunting bag, a rain cover, hat/sunglasses for your little one, sunscreen, and diapers/wipes. If your child is older, make sure you check that snack stash and toss anything that's been hanging out too long. Choose durable favorites!
6 - Ditch the headphones! Since you're leading with the stroller, you want to be extra careful how you approach intersections and run in busier areas, especially if your surroundings don't have sidewalks and you're running on strollers. Headphones make it easier to get distracted and make dangerous movements.
7- Make it fun! Play some music. Chat with your little one to keep your pace honest. For older kids, ask them to look for certain things, name colors and objects they see, etc. Save the interval workouts and pace pushing for another day. Leave yourself extra time for stops and take your kiddo out to explore or snuggle when they need a break.
Enjoy the time out on the road with your little one!