Tell me about jogging with a stroller (and a toddler!)
June 9, 2015 4:33 PM Subscribe
I used to run before I had a baby. Now I have a toddler, am out of shape, and am thinking of getting a jogging stroller to get back into it. Thoughts?
I see people jogging with kids, but I need details on how this works to see if I'll actually do it! Is there any specific technique I need to know about? Any changes in my running form? Anything I need to do to make sure the kiddo is okay? (She has only really been in the kind of stroller that faces me.) What can I do to make this more fun for both of us?
And equipment -- tell me about it! I'm thinking of investing in a Bob's Stroller. Is that too much? Is there something else I should be looking for? I'll be mostly on paved paths, but then off-road on gravelly parts for some of it (and may get more adventurous if this works out for us.)
Note: I've never been a really serious runner -- I did a few half-marathons, pretty slowly, and that's what I'm aiming for. I really just want to build endurance and get out of the house with the kid, so I'm not expecting too much!
Any advice definitely appreciated!
I see people jogging with kids, but I need details on how this works to see if I'll actually do it! Is there any specific technique I need to know about? Any changes in my running form? Anything I need to do to make sure the kiddo is okay? (She has only really been in the kind of stroller that faces me.) What can I do to make this more fun for both of us?
And equipment -- tell me about it! I'm thinking of investing in a Bob's Stroller. Is that too much? Is there something else I should be looking for? I'll be mostly on paved paths, but then off-road on gravelly parts for some of it (and may get more adventurous if this works out for us.)
Note: I've never been a really serious runner -- I did a few half-marathons, pretty slowly, and that's what I'm aiming for. I really just want to build endurance and get out of the house with the kid, so I'm not expecting too much!
Any advice definitely appreciated!
We love our BOB stroller. Our 17 mo son enters a calm, zone-out state after a few minutes of walking or running with it. It has an adjustable back, so we can lower it for naps - he naps easily in it (although his neck always ends up lolling over at a right angle which looks uncomfortable, but doesn't seem to be). It also has a clear plastic "skylight" which lets you see what's going on in there when you're pushing it.
The BOB stroller we have (the SE revolution) is great on or off road, but it's too bumpy if you're going faster than a walk on dirt. I think there's a model with an even heavier-duty suspension, so maybe that one would allow running off road.
I'm not a dedicated enough runner to have a definable "running form", but it didn't seem like much of an adjustment for me. I'm a 6'2" man, but my shorter wife also says she didn't feel like it made much of a difference.
One thing you should know is that you're supposed to lock the front wheel so it can't swivel when going fast so the wheel doesn't flip to the side and cause a crash. It's kind of hard to turn the stroller when the wheel is locked - my wrists often get tired when running with the wheel locked, although it gets a little easier with practice.
One thing I'd definitely purchase is a cupholder - the BOB we got doesn't come with a cupholder, which would have come in handy on many a walk, but I understand you can purchase one that fits it (just haven't gotten around to doing it - I still balance bottles and food on the hood of the stroller, which is annoying).
I find that the undercarriage storage area is *just* a little bit too narrow for things I usually want to put in there, like a baby go-bag, but with a little shoving, it does the job.
The tires needed to be re-pressurized after about a year of use, which is pretty reasonable, I think.
The stroller is pretty easy to fold up. It fits nicely in the trunk of my Honda Civic, but only if you remove the front wheel, which has a quick-release.
posted by Salvor Hardin at 5:15 PM on June 9, 2015 [2 favorites]
The BOB stroller we have (the SE revolution) is great on or off road, but it's too bumpy if you're going faster than a walk on dirt. I think there's a model with an even heavier-duty suspension, so maybe that one would allow running off road.
I'm not a dedicated enough runner to have a definable "running form", but it didn't seem like much of an adjustment for me. I'm a 6'2" man, but my shorter wife also says she didn't feel like it made much of a difference.
One thing you should know is that you're supposed to lock the front wheel so it can't swivel when going fast so the wheel doesn't flip to the side and cause a crash. It's kind of hard to turn the stroller when the wheel is locked - my wrists often get tired when running with the wheel locked, although it gets a little easier with practice.
One thing I'd definitely purchase is a cupholder - the BOB we got doesn't come with a cupholder, which would have come in handy on many a walk, but I understand you can purchase one that fits it (just haven't gotten around to doing it - I still balance bottles and food on the hood of the stroller, which is annoying).
I find that the undercarriage storage area is *just* a little bit too narrow for things I usually want to put in there, like a baby go-bag, but with a little shoving, it does the job.
The tires needed to be re-pressurized after about a year of use, which is pretty reasonable, I think.
The stroller is pretty easy to fold up. It fits nicely in the trunk of my Honda Civic, but only if you remove the front wheel, which has a quick-release.
posted by Salvor Hardin at 5:15 PM on June 9, 2015 [2 favorites]
YES on the Bob Stroller. We remarked many times that it was one of the best baby item purchases and when we gave it to friends after about 5 years of heavy use it was still in great shape with lots of life left in it. It's pricey, no doubt, but very worth it.
I was not a serious jogger with my son when he was a baby but the Bob was perfect for us for long walks, easy jogs and expeditions where you're out all day and need to take stuff along. It's comfortable to push, rides nicely and my baby - who was not an easy-to-please little fellow - seemed quite happy in it. I had friends who used theirs for much heavier exercise and seemed pleased with it as well.
posted by Kangaroo at 7:09 PM on June 9, 2015
I was not a serious jogger with my son when he was a baby but the Bob was perfect for us for long walks, easy jogs and expeditions where you're out all day and need to take stuff along. It's comfortable to push, rides nicely and my baby - who was not an easy-to-please little fellow - seemed quite happy in it. I had friends who used theirs for much heavier exercise and seemed pleased with it as well.
posted by Kangaroo at 7:09 PM on June 9, 2015
This may not be helpful depending on where you live, but if you want to save money you should check out your local buy/sell/trade Facebook group or craigslist. In my local Facebook group I see very nice used jogging strollers (BOB and Baby Jogger Summit) in practically new condition offered for sale at a great deal literally every day. I think a lot of people buy them with good intentions and never end up using them.
posted by gatorae at 7:10 PM on June 9, 2015 [1 favorite]
posted by gatorae at 7:10 PM on June 9, 2015 [1 favorite]
Buy a used one. Make sure your tires are pumped up - and the local bike store can get you new tunes or tuff tape to prevent punctures. At this age baby will be pretty happy - I've found that 12-24 months is the hardest age because they get bored but they don't have the dexterity for electronic devices. Get a strap and keep yourself connected to the stroller for safety on hills. Strollers are great for stashing water bottles and snacks! I currently run with a double stroller and I'm training (very, very slowly) for a marathon this September. Do stick to paved paths - it makes a big difference.
One other great thing about running with a stroller is that everyone will be very impressed with you no matter how slowly you run, and I have never once gotten harassed. It's like a combination invisibility cloak/ smile generator.
With a toddler you can plan your run so that you stop at a playground on the way. back to the house. I have special snacks and toys that my kids only play with when they're in the stroller, so by now they're usually pretty glad to go for a run. In fact I told my son I'd take them to preschool in the stroller tomorrow morning - about three miles each way. Snack traps are especially good for stroller time.
posted by bq at 7:14 PM on June 9, 2015
One other great thing about running with a stroller is that everyone will be very impressed with you no matter how slowly you run, and I have never once gotten harassed. It's like a combination invisibility cloak/ smile generator.
With a toddler you can plan your run so that you stop at a playground on the way. back to the house. I have special snacks and toys that my kids only play with when they're in the stroller, so by now they're usually pretty glad to go for a run. In fact I told my son I'd take them to preschool in the stroller tomorrow morning - about three miles each way. Snack traps are especially good for stroller time.
posted by bq at 7:14 PM on June 9, 2015
I was an avid stroller runner only up until a few months ago. It's the greatest thing you can do with your baby. You're showing them the benefits of physical exercise, getting out of the house, giving them fresh air, putting them in the outdoors, and giving them more opportunity to nap. On top of all that, YOU get the opportunity to get your exercise in. Win win win.
Equipment:
First, I wanted to respond to some of the suggestions to get a used stroller: Yikes. A used stroller? From Craigslist? We're talking about your baby here--your most valuable cargo ever. I'm not saying to blow all the money you have on a $1,000 running stroller, but I'd avoid used. Who knows why someone is selling a used stroller, or if they have taken care of it? Also, has the manufacturer performed a recall that you don't know about? Are the tires good? Was it well maintained?
My advice: Get a decent running stroller, but try not to get a single stroller for everything. I never used the Bob, but it does look nice. They're decently rated on Consumer Reports, but the InStep Grand Safari AR245 is their highest rated all terrain stroller (and it's only $185 on Amazon).
We daily drove a Bumbleride Indie running stroller. When we first bought our stroller, we aimed for one that did everything well--go for a run, stroll through the neighborhood, pop it in the trunk, etc. However, you can end up with a relatively pricey stroller that does everything okay, but isn't great at any one thing. The Bumbleride was very comfortable for running and local jaunts to the grocery store, but it is a monster to fold up and shove in the trunk. It folds from full size to about 2/3 the size, and takes up tons of room in the trunk of any car or SUV. We ended up getting inexpensive umbrella strollers and leaving them in the trunks of each car. My running stroller had a nice mesh window I could see through to my daughter; I'm pretty sure most strollers will have something like this.
Running Tips: Those strollers are great for your workout. No, really. You get a little resistance from pushing the stroller. You can also put some bottles of water into the basket (and a bottle or sippy cup for the little one), as well as some snacks and baby-safe sunscreen for both of you. You can throw in some Clif's energy blocks or a Clif's bar, maybe some bananas or Cheerios. Leave the headphones at home, because the only music you should hear should be whatever you're singing; it's best to listen to your child in case they cry, sniffle, yell, etc. Always take a blanket in case they get cold--and that can happen anywhere at any time.
Safety: Maybe you'll be out at dusk, or maybe you like an early morning run. These are great, but you need to make sure you're visible. Get reflectors and cheap flashing LED lights (Costco has a set specifically for runners); you can attach these to your stroller with no problem. Double-check to make sure you're wearing reflective clothing.
As far as taking my daughter out of the stroller (like at a park or to let her walk for a little), that was a one way ticket to Frustration City with a stop off at WHY-DID-I-DO-THAT?-ville. She would never want to get back INTO the stroller. As she got to be a better walker (and then little runner), she wanted to help PUSH the stroller. I learned that snacks would get her back into the stroller, but that was a tough lesson to learn.
I salute you for wanting to do your running with your baby. It'll be great!
posted by rybreadmed at 9:21 PM on June 9, 2015
Equipment:
First, I wanted to respond to some of the suggestions to get a used stroller: Yikes. A used stroller? From Craigslist? We're talking about your baby here--your most valuable cargo ever. I'm not saying to blow all the money you have on a $1,000 running stroller, but I'd avoid used. Who knows why someone is selling a used stroller, or if they have taken care of it? Also, has the manufacturer performed a recall that you don't know about? Are the tires good? Was it well maintained?
My advice: Get a decent running stroller, but try not to get a single stroller for everything. I never used the Bob, but it does look nice. They're decently rated on Consumer Reports, but the InStep Grand Safari AR245 is their highest rated all terrain stroller (and it's only $185 on Amazon).
We daily drove a Bumbleride Indie running stroller. When we first bought our stroller, we aimed for one that did everything well--go for a run, stroll through the neighborhood, pop it in the trunk, etc. However, you can end up with a relatively pricey stroller that does everything okay, but isn't great at any one thing. The Bumbleride was very comfortable for running and local jaunts to the grocery store, but it is a monster to fold up and shove in the trunk. It folds from full size to about 2/3 the size, and takes up tons of room in the trunk of any car or SUV. We ended up getting inexpensive umbrella strollers and leaving them in the trunks of each car. My running stroller had a nice mesh window I could see through to my daughter; I'm pretty sure most strollers will have something like this.
Running Tips: Those strollers are great for your workout. No, really. You get a little resistance from pushing the stroller. You can also put some bottles of water into the basket (and a bottle or sippy cup for the little one), as well as some snacks and baby-safe sunscreen for both of you. You can throw in some Clif's energy blocks or a Clif's bar, maybe some bananas or Cheerios. Leave the headphones at home, because the only music you should hear should be whatever you're singing; it's best to listen to your child in case they cry, sniffle, yell, etc. Always take a blanket in case they get cold--and that can happen anywhere at any time.
Safety: Maybe you'll be out at dusk, or maybe you like an early morning run. These are great, but you need to make sure you're visible. Get reflectors and cheap flashing LED lights (Costco has a set specifically for runners); you can attach these to your stroller with no problem. Double-check to make sure you're wearing reflective clothing.
As far as taking my daughter out of the stroller (like at a park or to let her walk for a little), that was a one way ticket to Frustration City with a stop off at WHY-DID-I-DO-THAT?-ville. She would never want to get back INTO the stroller. As she got to be a better walker (and then little runner), she wanted to help PUSH the stroller. I learned that snacks would get her back into the stroller, but that was a tough lesson to learn.
I salute you for wanting to do your running with your baby. It'll be great!
posted by rybreadmed at 9:21 PM on June 9, 2015
I have a Phil & Ted jogging stroller I got used and love it. You save a ton and most stuff is in good condition. Just give it a good look over before you buy.
Things to keep with stroller always:
-Light weight portable tire pump
-Spare diaper
-Cover for stroller in case of unexpected rain or intense sun (actual stroller cover, rain jacket, blankie, etc) May vary by location
Things to take with:
Liquid for child (juice box, water bottle, etc)
Liquid for you (Gatorade, water bottle, etc)
A snack or two. I like having at least on super yummy, rare snack that can shut down whining instantly if things start going south.
Change of clothes for kiddo.
Things I've learned:
Wrist fitbit doesn't register me pushing since arms aren't moving
It's tempting to lean on the handle but it should glide in front of you.
It's okay to take it slow.
Really, it's ok, pace yourself.
Don't run to exhaustion if you don't have someone waiting at home to help with child.
Let them get out for a bit to tire them out too. My son tries to help push for a bit, will run around excited and then get tired and climb back in. YCMV
Use the wrist strap/stroller tether.
Be careful going downhill, stroller will want to go very fast.
Keep an eye out for fun-run 5Ks that allow for strollers (especially around Halloween there are costumed ones!)
Stay to the right and tell people "on your left" when passing
Depending on the place you run, watch out for bikers speeding past with no warning.
Be predictable in your movements in case others are about to pass you (ie try not to swerve or stop suddenly)
If you go on a trail with a stroller, test out with just walking with stroller the first time so you know if there are any surprise roots/rocks/mud pits/etc that would make it impassable to run.
Be ok with turning around 5 minutes into it because someone's about to have a meltdown.
Have fun!
posted by HMSSM at 10:21 PM on June 9, 2015 [1 favorite]
Things to keep with stroller always:
-Light weight portable tire pump
-Spare diaper
-Cover for stroller in case of unexpected rain or intense sun (actual stroller cover, rain jacket, blankie, etc) May vary by location
Things to take with:
Liquid for child (juice box, water bottle, etc)
Liquid for you (Gatorade, water bottle, etc)
A snack or two. I like having at least on super yummy, rare snack that can shut down whining instantly if things start going south.
Change of clothes for kiddo.
Things I've learned:
Wrist fitbit doesn't register me pushing since arms aren't moving
It's tempting to lean on the handle but it should glide in front of you.
It's okay to take it slow.
Really, it's ok, pace yourself.
Don't run to exhaustion if you don't have someone waiting at home to help with child.
Let them get out for a bit to tire them out too. My son tries to help push for a bit, will run around excited and then get tired and climb back in. YCMV
Use the wrist strap/stroller tether.
Be careful going downhill, stroller will want to go very fast.
Keep an eye out for fun-run 5Ks that allow for strollers (especially around Halloween there are costumed ones!)
Stay to the right and tell people "on your left" when passing
Depending on the place you run, watch out for bikers speeding past with no warning.
Be predictable in your movements in case others are about to pass you (ie try not to swerve or stop suddenly)
If you go on a trail with a stroller, test out with just walking with stroller the first time so you know if there are any surprise roots/rocks/mud pits/etc that would make it impassable to run.
Be ok with turning around 5 minutes into it because someone's about to have a meltdown.
Have fun!
posted by HMSSM at 10:21 PM on June 9, 2015 [1 favorite]
Damn no don't buy it on Craigslist. Buy it from your local sporting goods consignment store or baby store. Look up the model number on your phone to check for recalls before you buy it, and then take it to the bike store for a tuneup. You can save literally hundreds of dollars buying used over new.
posted by bq at 10:29 PM on June 9, 2015 [1 favorite]
posted by bq at 10:29 PM on June 9, 2015 [1 favorite]
Equipment-wise, you could do worse than the recently launched Bugaboo Runner. It's not cheap, but it's pretty damn snazzy... and will hold its value well for resale a few years down the line.
posted by ZipRibbons at 11:18 PM on June 9, 2015
posted by ZipRibbons at 11:18 PM on June 9, 2015
I'm Salvor Hardin's wife and he already commented, but I just wanted to add a few notes about our BOB stroller.
-Fitbit will not register steps if you push the stroller with your Fitbit-side hand, but don't worry, you can easily push a BOB stroller (probably all jogging strollers) with one hand.
-Snacks for the kiddo are great when you're walking, but I would avoid them while running because it can get bumpy and it's a choking risk.
-We always add explanations about how exercise can help you be healthy and strong as we run, and then stop somewhere for HIM to exercise when we're almost home (so he doesn't have to get back in the stroller afterwards).
-The BOB strollers come with a wrist strap, and you really do want to use it. They roll much, much better and faster than "regular" strollers, and they're silent. If you stop on a slight hill and don't notice, and then turn away for half a second, the stroller can really get away from you.
And it's true, you get WAY more kudos for running if you're pushing a stroller. The only time I ever got more "good jobs" was when I was running at 7 months pregnant.
posted by Cygnet at 6:28 AM on June 10, 2015
-Fitbit will not register steps if you push the stroller with your Fitbit-side hand, but don't worry, you can easily push a BOB stroller (probably all jogging strollers) with one hand.
-Snacks for the kiddo are great when you're walking, but I would avoid them while running because it can get bumpy and it's a choking risk.
-We always add explanations about how exercise can help you be healthy and strong as we run, and then stop somewhere for HIM to exercise when we're almost home (so he doesn't have to get back in the stroller afterwards).
-The BOB strollers come with a wrist strap, and you really do want to use it. They roll much, much better and faster than "regular" strollers, and they're silent. If you stop on a slight hill and don't notice, and then turn away for half a second, the stroller can really get away from you.
And it's true, you get WAY more kudos for running if you're pushing a stroller. The only time I ever got more "good jobs" was when I was running at 7 months pregnant.
posted by Cygnet at 6:28 AM on June 10, 2015
Response by poster: This is amazing advice everyone! I think I'm convinced on the Bob's, but going to try it out. I'll try to remember to repost later to say how it all turned out. Looking forward to all the kudos from strangers! :)
posted by EtTuHealy at 9:51 AM on June 11, 2015
posted by EtTuHealy at 9:51 AM on June 11, 2015
This thread is closed to new comments.
I'm not sure the on/off-roading ability of jogging strollers makes a ton of difference, but their stability against tipping to the side and the ease of turning the front wheel totally does.
When I started with a jogging stroller, the fronts of my thighs hurt like WHOA just from the SLIGHT lean forward to push the stroller along. I thought I was, like, perambulating wrong they hurt so badly! It'll improve!
posted by Eyebrows McGee at 4:47 PM on June 9, 2015