Running with a jogging stroller can be both enjoyable and frustrating. It is important to remember that running with a jogging stroller will take time to adjust, as it is different from running without one. In this article, we have some tips and tricks for you to make the most out of your new reality when running with a jogger or double jogger, and it goes well beyond just your running form!
Running With A Jogging Stroller Is Much Harder Than You Think
Whether you’re contemplating an afternoon run around the block or gearing up for an intense training cycle, having the right jogging stroller will make a world of difference.
Here’s the reality of running with a stroller, in the beginning, it’s torturous! I hate to describe it in this way, but that’s the realist side of me speaking. Your knees, thighs, and calves will ache from the unaccustomed movement and the additional weight of the stroller and child, your upper body may be sore as you lean over to stabilize the stroller’s balance (preventing it from veering off course) or as you’re leaning forward on an uphill slope, while also struggling with maintaining your breathing rhythm.
But before we get into a breakdown of how things change when running with a jogging stroller depending on which type of device you’re using, here are some steps for making this process less painful in the beginning:
Change The Way You Think About Running
First of all, and this is very important, re-program your mind that running with a jogging stroller will feel very different from without one. Some runners have told me they feel running is three times harder when pushing a stroller. You’ll also need to re-program your mind regarding your running schedule. Many avid runners tend to have a regimented schedule, now your little one will most likely dictate your running schedule. Additionally, countless runners feel going for a run is their alone and quiet time. This will probably no longer be the case. Be flexible and embrace your new normal.
Here’s a rude awakening – throw out the, “I run five miles in 36 minutes” mentality. That was before you started pushing a 25-pound jogging stroller (plus the weight of your child). Yes, I know I may be stating the obvious, but you need to get used to your new reality and be realistic. Don’t get frustrated or discouraged by your slower running speed and times. Here’s my tip: start setting your new times for stroller running. It changed my mindset and helped me, so give it a shot.
Try Running With One Arm Free
The most obvious difference when running with a stroller, and it goes without saying, will be running without being able to swing your arms freely and it will feel very unnatural in beginning. I found it didn’t take too long to be able to get accustomed to this change. I also found pushing with one arm and swinging my other arm helped, mind you, only do this when you’re running on a smooth flat surface.
It’s also important not to strangle the handlebar. I understand it’s easy to do, given whom you have in the stroller. But, I suggest a light grip, as to not create tension in your body while running.
Make Your Child Feel Included
Ensure that your child feels included during these runs by talking about what they see around them and giving them ample opportunities for interaction. You might want to also play visual games with your child. I would ask my daughter, “Tell me when you see a red car.” And, “How many red cars do you think we’ll see?” Or, I’d tell my daughter the stroller is a rocketship, and I’d let her imagination take off (pun intended). To this day, I can still hear my daughter’s “Whee!” and “Let’s go faster!” and it will always bring a smile to my face. Finally, if time permitted, I would always try to end my run at the park, so my daughter could have fun.
Pack For Your Run
Much like any time you leave the house with your child, don’t forget all the things your child might require. Pack a small bag of all the essentials, whether you need to pack diapers, wipes, a beverage, snacks, or toys. I always have a bag packed and stowed away in my jogging stroller, I also like having non-perishable snacks; therefore, I won’t have a surprise rotting banana in the bag. That’s always a good thing. As for toys, I like toys that can be tethered to the stroller. And the most important thing to remember, NEVER take their favorite toy on runs. You don’t want the nightmare of a lost favorite toy on your hands, trust me.
Merge Naptime and Your Runs
I don’t know too many babies who don’t love motion to help them go to sleep. When it was possible, I would try to run anywhere between 15-30 minutes before my daughter’s naptime. This gave me time to get her the morning or afternoon nap out of the way, in addition to my run.
Don’t run the same distances that you were running before. You’ll need to adjust to your new reality and how much time it will take for each of your runs. You’ll be running a shorter distance, but you’ll be exerting much more effort.
The Road Less Traveled is Better
Think ahead and plan your running route. Try to avoid busy streets, instead choose quieter and safer roads. And if possible, try to plan a route that will take you through neighborhoods with flat and smooth sidewalks.
Familiarize yourself with your stroller. Play around with the height of the handlebars. Find a natural position for your arms (without creating tension in your arms and shoulders). Feel how much pressure you need to apply to the handbrake to engage the brakes. Push the stroller around your neighborhood without your child. Get a feel for how the stroller feels on different terrain.
For the first two times out with my daughter, we ran around the track at the local high school, this way, I could ensure the surface was smooth, I didn’t have to worry about cars, and I could get used to the feel of the stroller. I liken it to when you first started driving a car.
Wear a Wrist Strap
Most jogging strollers come with a wrist strap. If yours didn’t, for a few dollars, you can purchase one. It’s well worth having this safeguard. I feel they are a must. Heaven forbid, you slip or fall, you don’t want the stroller getting away from you. This is especially true on any downhill portion of your run. In this scenario, a wrist strap is priceless.
Use Your Core
Running experts suggest using your core and legs to power your body. This will allow explosive forward movement as you propel your baby chariot. In addition, it will help you stay more upright and prevent slouching, hunched running.
Conclusion
Running with a jogging stroller can be very enjoyable, but it does require patience. With some adjustments, you will find running with your child is much more pleasant and worthwhile.
We hope you enjoyed reading the article and gained valuable information. We do understand many topics we covered are common sense. Nonetheless, we prefer to leave no stone unturned. Our goal is to provide the most straightforward, upfront, and honest advice we can.