Thinking about getting a baby jogger stroller but not sure where to start?
Getting exercise is important for lots of moms and dads, and using baby jogger strollers are a great way for parents to combine exercise with an outing for their child.
Having this one piece of equipment can set the stage for a healthy lifestyle for you and your baby.
Getting a baby jogging stroller can help you and your baby become more active. When
you get outside with your child in a jogger stroller, you can get the exercise you need while giving your baby some fresh air.
Baby jogging strollers come in lots of different designs with various features to choose from. Read on to find the one that's right for you.
Adding a Baby Stroller to Your Jogging Routine
You may think that jogging with a stroller isn't that different than just jogging, but when you bring your baby along for a run you take on additional weight and you need to take extra care to be safe. However, like most changes you make for your child, adding a baby jogging stroller to your exercise can be rewarding for you and your baby.
Jogging with a baby stroller not only gets you and your child out of the house, but it also is an excellent way to stay in shape and avoid the weight gain that many new parents experience.
How much do baby jogging strollers cost?
You can plan on spending around 150-400 dollars on a baby jogger stroller with the most expensive strollers ringing in at $1000 and above. Shopping online will often give you the best selection and price.
What to Look for in a Jogger Stroller
The key items to look out for when you're shopping for baby jogging strollers are safety and added features. You want your baby to be completely safe in the stroller no matter if you hit a bump or do a sharp turn. Other things you should consider when buying a jogging stroller are maneuverability, weight, storage capability and smoothness of ride.
Stroller Features
Not all jogging strollers are created equal and the variety of features can be confusing. First determine if you need a single jogging stroller or a double for two children. Think of the type of activity that you'll do with the stroller and where you'll do it - walking in the city requires a different stroller than running on the beach. Then figure out which features appeal to you.
Baby jogging strollers come with almost any feature you can imagine - shocks for a smooth ride, lightweight frames, adjustable handlebars, easy fold up for storage, canopies, cupholders, storage compartments, reversable seats and more. Decide on your routine for jogging with your baby and get the features that will make it easiest.
How to Use a Baby Jogger Stroller
Before you ever start jogging with your baby, take your jogger stroller out for a test spin. It will take some time to adjust to the additional weight and maneuvering your stroller safely. Don't expect to jog at the same pace you usually do. At first you'll be running a little slower, but the added resistance of your baby and the stroller will ensure that you still have a good workout.
If you're running in a straight line and you have a front swivel wheel on your stroller, lock the front wheel. This will keep the stroller from unexpectedly turning while you're jogging. Make sure that the handlebars are a comfortable height for your arms and you don't store too many items in the stroller making it too heavy for you to run with. Keep your hands on the handlebars at all times and make sure your pace is always slow enough that you have control over the stroller. You need to be going slow enough to make a sudden stop if necessary.
Where to Buy Jogging Strollers
You have lots of choices on where to buy a jogger stroller. The internet is a great place to start because you can shop a large selection while viewing stroller reviews for the products you're interested in. Also, unlike brick and mortar locations, there are online stores completely devoted to baby jogging strollers so you can get exactly what you need. You can also find a baby jogger stroller at baby stores, large retailers (like Target) and some bicycle stores.
How to Prepare Your Baby for Stroller Jogging
Taking your baby out in a jogger stroller can be a fun experience for you and baby if you think ahead and prepare your baby accordingly. Keep in mind that while you're getting a workout and warming up, your baby is gliding along getting exposed to wind and sun. So dress your baby in clothes that will be warm enough for a swift breeze on top of the current temperature. Apply sunscreen to your baby's skin before jogging on sunny days or for long periods of time and use the canopy or visor to shade your baby from the sun. When conditions are extreme, keep outings to twenty minutes or less.
Always strap your child into the baby jogger stroller using the entire harness. Remember that the stroller harness is what prevents your baby from being thrown from the stroller in the case of an accident. The harness straps also keep your child's hands and fingers safely away from the stroller wheels. If your child is hesitant about the jogger stroller, let him or her sit in the stroller at home a few times before taking it out on the road.
If your child is restless or has a case of the wiggles, consider jogging to a park or playground and then taking your baby out to play for a while before going back into the baby jogger stroller for another jog back home. Yes this can cut down on your exercise time, but giving your baby a break can make the experience much more fun for both of you.
Also consider the time of day when you take your baby for a jog. Before a nap or during playtime is a good time to take your baby out in the jogger stroller. Avoid jogging when your baby is hungry or isn't feeling well.
Safety Concerns When Jogging With a Stroller
Like almost anything that you do with your baby, using a baby jogger stroller can be dangerous if you don't do it safely. To begin with, your child must be at least 6 to 8 months old before you can use a jogging stroller. Always be sure that the stroller is locked and in the open position before you place your child into the seat. When you make a stop, make sure the stroller brake is on.
Never use the baby jogger stroller handles as carriers for bags, place items into the storage compartments instead. Avoid running in high traffic areas and around cars whenever possible. If purchasing a used stroller, check for manufacturer recalls. And know the stroller's weight limits. When your child meets the maximum weight, start looking for a new jogging stroller.


