One of the first things you learn when becoming a new parent is that exercise is one of the first things pushed to the back burner. Finding time to get in your sweat session can seem almost impossible, but there is always a way. The best option is to take your child with you, and for avid runners, or those looking to start something new, jogging strollers are the perfect pick. They can be difficult to maneuver, and the sheer weight of pushing baby while jogging makes the task a bit more intense, but with exercise, that’s never a bad thing.
If you are interested in running with your child, here are some tips to stroller jogging like a pro.
1. Purchase a high-quality jogging stroller. Equipment is something that you don’t want to skimp on. The main concern is tipping around turns, so make sure the stroller is steady. Look for a seat that holds your baby deep down inside the stroller. Also, be sure to look for a jogging stroller with brakes, and a wrist strap in case your lose your grip. To compare brands and prices, visit JoggingStroller.com.
2. Once you buy, give it a test run without your baby, just to be sure. Running and pushing can take some time to get used to, so get a good feel for how it changes your gait. It should be a smooth ride, and easy to control and maneuver.
3. Never, ever use your stroller at night, no matter how reflective it is. Better safe than sorry.
4. Stick to routes you are familiar with to avoid getting into any situations you can’t get out of. Jogging strollers are extremely versatile, but they still have their limitations.
5. Never take your hands off the stroller. Jogging strollers are designed to move with very little force, so it’s easy for them to get away from you. As mentioned above, get a stroller with a wrist strap and make sure you use it.
6. Keep it slow. Your pace should be a jog, not a full out run, to reduce your chance of accident, no matter how much your child yells for you to go faster.
7. When your baby is under 1 year old, choose smooth surfaces to keep shaking to a minimum. You may even want to consider a helmet, as accidents do happen.
8. Use sunscreen and hats in the summer, raincoats in the rain, and lots of layers in the winter. That goes for both of you.
9. Those suckers are huge, so make sure you are considerate of others on the road or side walk.
Jogging strollers can be a great way to get in your workout while spending time with your child. Never sacrifice your health, even when the job of new parent seems to leave time for little else. The best thing you can do for your child is give them a healthy, happy parent.
Comments
Michele Silence
January 5th, 2010 - 10:50:49 AM
That's a great way to keep parents in shape. Love to see people using them. Don't forget though, that children, even preschool children can start exercising too. Children as young as two can start learning the basics of why to eat right, healthy food choices, and begin to learn fitness skills. I've been working with preschoolers for 15 years and the best thing parents can do (especially active parents who would truly buy the above mentioned stroller) is to start teaching their children how to develop a love for exercise and healthy habits. If you'd like to see some free physical education ideas to use with young children, visit: http://www.kid-fit.com and go to the free p.e. activities link. There's about 90 free items and other freebies to help get you started. Healthy New Year!
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