Running has a plethora of physical and mental health perks we know and love – but running with a stroller might come with a few bonus benefits you didn’t see coming. Stepping away from the never-ending juggle of feeds, cooking, cleaning, work and that 10k training plan, it gives you precious time with your bub while clocking a few kms, building strength and boosting motivation.
Ahead, the benefits of running with a stroller, expert tips before you lace up and how to choose the right one (with advice from Jamie Owen, Marketing Manager for Thule SA).
What Are The Benefits Of Running With A Jogging Stroller?
Extra Calories Burned
If you know, you know. Running up a hill – even with the smoothest stroller on the planet – takes extra effort. Even on flat roads, the added resistance ups your exertion. How many extra calories you burn depends on your baby’s weight, the stroller’s weight, whether you push with both arms or alternate, and your pace.
Bonding Time With Your Baby
It’s special to share this time with them – moving your body, clearing your mind and soaking up fresh air together. Running’s well-known mental health benefits become even more meaningful when your fave little sidekick is along for the ride.
Health and Fitness
Alongside the bonding perks, running can help you lose weight, improve cardiovascular fitness, strengthen your immune system, build muscle and boost bone density.
Social Perks
Getting outdoors in natural light or meeting a friend for a stroller jog at the park gets you connecting with others. Seeing new faces and chatting to fellow parents provides the social buzz you might be craving – which can improve mental health and well-being, and offer the refreshing change of scenery you need today.
READ MORE: Beginners 5K Running Training Plan And How To Crush It In Just 6 Weeks
Tips To Consider Before You Start Running
Jamie Owen from Thule SA shares his expert advice for running safely with your most precious cargo.
Make Sure You’re Cleared
Most new mums can return to gentle exercise at 6–8 weeks, but it’s essential to get the green light from your doctor or gynaecologist first. Start slow with walks and build up gradually. Dr Moodley from Mediclinic Sandton notes one golden rule for postpartum exercise: “I don’t allow abdominal exercises until six weeks after pregnancy, whether you had a normal delivery or a C-section.”
Wait Until Your Baby Is Old Enough
Most experts agree that you should wait until the baby is at least six months old. The reason for this is that most babies can’t hold their heads up until that age. Naturally, you can get your jogging stroller and start using it from birth – just stick to walking the first six months.
Research, Research, Research
When it comes to buying your jogging stroller, safety is first. Don’t settle for anything less than the highest standards when it comes to design, flexibility, safety and quality. Jogging with a baby in the outdoors is something completely different from strolling on city streets – and your jogging stroller should be up to the task. Look for features such as a five-point safety harness and an integrated handbrake.
Be Flexible
Accept that any run is a good run, and that your plans most likely will change. It may not be the five-km run you had in mind – but a two-km is way better than nothing, right? You will also need some time to get used to a different stride. Even a lightweight jogging stroller can be a challenge to push up a hill.
Time It Right For A Happy Baby
Timing is everything. Think of it as a simple equation: happy parent + happy baby = a great run. Of course, it is easier said than done! But be sure to prepare and have a flexible mindset. With younger children, you may have to adjust your plans depending on their mood. With toddlers, try to involve them in the run. But remember to bring water, snacks, diapers and any other essentials. You will need it!
Check The Weather
Your little passenger’s comfort matters. Make sure it’s not too hot or cold in the stroller. A multi-position canopy helps – ideally with a clear roof port so you can see your baby – and a rain cover keeps them cosy and dry.
Explore Your Surroundings
Make your run an adventure and find new paths! A jogging stroller with large wheels and suspension makes for a comfortable ride for your child. This means longer and faster runs for you – and a fun outing for your passenger.
READ MORE: 34 Running Tips Every Beginner Needs To Know
How To Choose A Good Quality Running Stroller
When shopping for a jogging stroller, weigh up your options to ensure you’re investing in one that suits your family and lifestyle. Jogging strollers are built for speed, safety and support, while standard strollers aren’t designed for running and may be less comfortable.
Jamie explains why Thule’s jogging strollers are engineered for performance – and what to look for when buying one, as these details will affect your pace, stride and comfort:
- The lightweight aluminium frame minimises the total weight being pushed
- Aerodynamic design reduces wind interference
- Oversized, air-filled tyres ensure a smooth glide over various terrains
- Twist hand break helps control downhill and forward speeds (included with Thule Urban Glide and Thule Glide)
- While pushing a jogging stroller may slow your pace slightly, Thule’s premium joggers have proven their high-performance credentials – three models even feature in the Guinness World Records for the fastest marathons and half-marathons with a stroller.
READ MORE: Is The Thule Urban Glide 3 The Best Running Stroller? I Tried It Out
Bottom Line
The perks of running with a stroller stack up fast. Just be sure to get the all-clear from your doctor or gynaecologist before heading out. Make sure your little one’s ready too, as a run is a whole lot bumpier than a stroll. Once you’ve both got the green light, lace up and go. Enjoy it, mama – catch you on Strava!
