How to get running with your buggy
If you enjoyed running before your baby arrived, no reason not to carry it on with baby in tow
If you enjoyed running before your little one came along, there’s no reason they can’t become part of your running routine.
There are some things to think about if you plan to go running with your baby in their buggy. Here’s our helpful guide.
Pick the right stroller
When choosing a stroller for running with it’s worth thinking about the terrain you want to run on and it’s worth looking at ones with a wheel size of 16 inches or larger. There are strollers for off-road running, while other strollers are best suited for smooth pavement running.
You’ll also want to ensure the stroller you choose has good stability and comfort, so look for good suspension and shock absorption too.
Other handy additions to look for include a good handbrake and a sun screen so your baby is protected if you’re running on a sunny day.
Wear the right gear
Suitable footwear is essential, so always grab the right running shoes.
Stay hydrated
It’s important you drink enough water before and after any physical activity, even more so if you’re still breastfeeding.
Watch your posture
Particularly when you are running with a buggy it’s very important to check your posture. Make sure you have a light grip on the handlebars and use a wrist strap so that the buggy is attached to you. If the front wheel of your buggy swivels you should lock it into a fixed position for stability. Make sure you run with your chest out, shoulder blades back and down and you are in an upright/tall position with your feet facing straight ahead.
Don’t run with a ‘protruding booty’ either. It might be tempting to crouch like this when your arms ache and your legs are tired but it’s bad for your back. Likewise, the handle bars should be at the right height for you so you don’t need to stoop, as this could lead to injuries and lower back pain. Keep a slight bend in your elbows and avoid locking them out and extending your wrists. If you have a wide handlebar use it to keep your shoulders opened up.
Keep it social
It’s a good idea to team up with other mums who may want to run with you. It’s a great motivator to have others sharing it with you.