Running With Your Kids, Instead of Just Running After Them

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When you’re a mom it seems like there is never enough time in the day to get everything done. There are some days when you may barely have time to shower, much less fit in a workout. If this sounds like you, a running stroller may be just the thing you need to get out there and fit in that workout. With the weather cooling down, now is the perfect time to skip that gym workout and get out in the fresh air. You want to make sure you and your kids have the best experience possible, so here are some tips to make it a little easier when you hit the road.Be Prepared Safety is the number one priority. If you have a new baby and you will be going out for your first run together, you should be aware that it is not recommended that babies be in a running stroller until they can sit and hold their heads up on their own. This usually happens at about 6 months of age. There are some running strollers that have the ability to be used with an infant car seat, however, this will affect the control and stability of the stroller. If you choose to use your stroller with an infant seat, it is best if you make sure to only do a light jog on a flat smooth surface or even just take a long walk. Always use the full harness. This will help keep your kids from getting shaken too much and protect them from falling out. The harness will also protect those little fingers from getting caught in the wheels.When taking your stroller out for a run you should always be sure to lock the front wheel. There are some strollers that have a fixed front wheel and others that have a switch to lock the wheel in place. It may not seem that important, but it will keep you in control of the stroller if you should hit a crack or bump in the road. You also don’t want to forget to use the wrist strap that is attached to most strollers. It may not feel very comfortable at first to run like this, but it really is the safest way. If you should trip or hit a rock you don’t want the stroller taking off with your kids inside it. Don’t forget to bring along the necessities like sunscreen, diapers and a change of clothes. You never know what you might need on your run. It’s also a good idea to bring along snacks, drinks, and entertainment for the kids. Small toys, books or games will help keep them occupied. Keeping them happy will ensure that you are able to get an enjoyable, stress free workout. Just don’t add too much extra weight to the stroller.

Use Good Form

Running with a stroller is very different from running alone. Using a running stroller means that your natural arm movement is going to be impeded. You want to be keep at least one hand on the stroller while you are running, so switch your arms periodically to get a workout on both sides.

Your normal running pace is also going change. The length of your strides will need to become shorter in order to avoid hitting the back of the stroller. To stay in control of the stroller you will never want to be going so fast that you can’t stop it if necessary. Pushing your kids in a stroller means that you will be burning more calories, since it involves more resistance training than normal. Don’t worry if you can’t keep your normal running times.

When you are first starting out with your running stroller you may feel some level of discomfort. You want to ensure that you aren’t leaning forward as you’re running. It’s important that you are using the correct form so that you don’t cause unnecessary stress to your body. If you experience lower back pain after your first trip out, you might want try to use some back support while running.

Kids can be finicky. Be flexible and understand that some days may not work out how you have planned. Have fun out there and remember that the more you run with your stroller the easier it will become.

Courtney P.

I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!

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