Imagine this: a beautiful sunny morning, clear blue sky, birds chirping in the park and you, on your running shoes ready for your morning exercise. But there is a twist. This time you are not alone, but carrying your best running companion, your newborn in a running stroller. That’s right! Keeping fit and attending to your baby doesn’t have to be mutually exclusive.
Welcome to the fantastic world of running with a stroller, an activity that is not only a great cardio workout but also a wonderful way to spend quality time with your little one. Training with a running stroller comes with its own perks and setbacks. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the journey smoothly, ensuring you and your child’s safety while making the process enjoyable.
Basics of Running with a Stroller
Running with a stroller can be a little challenging, especially if you are new to this. However, don’t let it overwhelm you. Start slow, and in no time, you will get the hang of it. A few things to remember when starting this journey are to select the right stroller, maintain the correct posture, have the right grip and adjust your stride.
Rookies often disregard the importance of choosing the right stroller. An ideal running stroller has a stable and sturdy structure, brakes, a five-point harness for your child’s safety and a wrist strap for easy maneuverability.
The next focus should be your posture. Do not hunch over or lean on the stroller; keep your back straight and arms at a 90 degree angle. A hunched back can not only make the run uncomfortable but also lead to long term posture issues.
Also, remember to keep a relaxed grip on the stroller. A tight grip can result in numb fingers and arms and can even interfere with proper blood circulation. Adjust your stride length to avoid knocking your toes against the stroller and to provide better control and stability.
Benefits of Running with a Stroller
Training with a running stroller is no ordinary exercise; it’s almost equivalent to resistance training, pushing a weighted stroller ramps up the intensity of your routine, thereby burning more calories. It’s also great for building upper body strength, improves endurance, agility and provides great cardio.
Most importantly, it saves you from the hassle of hiring a babysitter and in the process exposes the little one to the world of fitness, a habit that can shape their perspective towards health and fitness in the future.
Safety Measures When Running with a Stroller
When you’re running with a stroller, safety becomes paramount. Always strap your child in securely; use the seat belts and make sure the stroller isn’t likely to tip over. If you’re running in the evening, equip your stroller with reflective lights so people can see you. Also, choose suitable paths; avoid hilly or rough terrains that may destabilize the stroller.
In conclusion, stroller running can be a fun and effective way to maintain your fitness level after parenthood. It also provides an opportunity to model a healthy lifestyle to your kids. So, cater to your health and leverage this time to strengthen the bond with your child. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be all set for an enriching running journey. Happy running to you and your tiny companion!
