The jogging stroller segment of the stroller market has really been expanding over the last few years and can, therefore, be a little overwhelming when shopping for one. Below are some of the important factors you should consider when buying and using a jogging stroller.
The first thing you need to decide is what will be the primary use of your jogging stroller? If you plan on running with it, you want to make sure you are buying a “true jogger”. Many companies have adapted the three wheel look and marketed their stroller as a “sport,” “fitness” or “all terrain” stroller. These strollers are not intended for heavy jogging or running. They are suitable for off-roading, hiking and walking, but are not equipped with the safety features to make it a true jogging stroller.
Please be sure to read the manual to find out what category your stroller falls in.
The definition of a jogging stroller is:
- they have fat, inflatable tires
- they have hand brakes and parking brakes
- many offer shock absorbers and plush suspension.
- They also will have aluminum frames and at least a 16 inch for occasional running or a 20 inch tire for more serious running.
Joggers may not have a huge amount of storage and most likely will not come with cup holders, trays or accessories; these can get in the way when you are running. Lastly, a true jogger will have a deep seat for your baby and will not have a swivel wheel in front.
If you are more interested in hiking, off-roading, walking around town, then the 12 inch swivel front wheel is much easier to use. These strollers have fat, inflatable tires that are easy to push on rough terrain. Twelve or sixteen inch tires are recommended for walking and off-roading.
enough movie download Experts advise not to rollerblade with your jogger as it can easily tip over!
Most manufactures recommend that you do not put your baby in it until they are at least six months old even if your jogger has a fully reclining seat. Your baby’s neck muscles are not strong enough to handle all the jostling that happens in a jogger. Your baby should have good head support before putting them in a jogging stroller.
A few other options that make a good jogging stroller are:
- Look for easy assembly and collapsability
- Lightweight aluminum strollers offer the most durability and lightest weight. Steal framed strollers are much cheaper, but are prone to rust and frame damage.
- A five point harness offers the safest ride for your baby.
- A hand brake allows you to slow your stroller down when running and a parking brake will allow you to park the stroller without it rolling away. In my experience teaching classes, most of the strollers that only have the hand brake with a lock on it, not an added foot brake, tend to roll away even when they are properly locked. So I highly recommend a jogger with a foot brake.
- Your child should be seated deep into the stroller and far away from the wheels.
Always check for current recalls on all jogging strollers before you buy. For up to date information on recalls, consult the Consumer Products Safety Commission’s website.
The cost of the stroller can make a difference, but you really do not need to spend over $350 for a jogging stroller. Most of the strollers that are rated the highest are $350.00 and under. That being said, most of the strollers that are $150.00 and under are usually a bit less reliable, harder to maneuver and not as comfortable for your baby.
Article written by Tracy Stettner of Dolphin Yoga & Doula Center
Tags: jogging strollers, Mom and baby fitness, postnatal fitness
