Are you looking for a way to stay in shape while taking the kids with you? Jogging strollers have made it easier for moms to exercise while allowing their children to get fresh air and be outdoors.
Have you ever tried running with a regular stroller? They are hard to hold onto and steer. The introduction of jogging strollers made it easier for moms to walk or jog while taking their child with them.
Though these strollers have been around since the 1980’s, this styles popularity has grown, and there are a lot of models and styles to choose from. They range in price from $100 to $900, depending on the different brands and features you need.
When choosing your stroller, be sure to look for one that is well designed, durable, and will not tip over. The design of the jogging stroller is different from a standard stroller in many ways and can be less sturdy, so keep this in mind when looking at the brand, style and price. Do some comparison research before deciding on one.
Some other benefits of jogging strollers include:
• Netting or an all weather cover to keep bugs, sun and wind away from your child
• Easy to steer
• Can go on any terrain and are great for hiking or walks in parks
• Often times light weight and easy to fold
• Some strollers even come with shock absorbers for those bumpy rides
• Can hold older children and many styles have a higher weight capacity then regular or umbrella strollers
Safety with any stroller is important. However, since you may find yourself off-roading or night jogging, here are some safety tips to keep in mind when using a jogging stroller. Keep in mind that most manufacturers recommend waiting until your child is at least six months old before you run with them in the stroller. Their muscles are still not developed enough to support them properly as they’re jounced.
SAFETY TIPS:
1.) When you put your child into the stroller, be sure to use the seatbelt correctly. Do not treat a stroller any differently then a car seat. You do not want your child to fall or climb out.
2.) Be sure that the stroller is completely opened and locked before putting your child in.
3.) Always use the brakes, even on a flat area. If you are on a hill and stop for a moment, use common sense and hold onto the stroller. Some strollers come with a safety strap you can wear on your wrist. If you have this option, use it.
4.) Use road safety rules when jogging.
5.) Run during the daylight hours when possible. If you need to jog at night, watch for traffic and wear bright or light colored garments. Reflectors and/or flashers can also help make you more visible.
6.) Never leave the stroller unattended. It only takes a minute for someone to knock it over or walk off with the stroller.
7.) If the weather is bad, do not take your child out. Grab an old exercise video instead.
8.) Keep 2 bottles of water with you at all times, one for you and one for your child.
9.) Never park the stroller near traffic. Keep your child on the curb or sidewalk at all times.
10.) If you are off-roading or hiking, take another adult with you.
11.) Always use common sense. It only takes one mistake for a child to get hurt.
