Jogger Strollers Keep Parents Running

Having a child does not spell the end of your running career. Runner-parents everywhere are taking their kids along with them thanks to jogger strollers. But before you buy and run, here's a top-line look at available brands today and common-sense fitness tips to keep you running smart with baby until they're outrunning you someday.

Easy-Stroller-It. Whether you gave birth to the baby or are a proud, sleepless papa, you need to gradually ease into stroller running to prevent injury. "Running mechanics change and targeted muscles are trained different while pushing a stroller," exercise physiologist Fabio Comana tells The New York Times. He suggests you lower your time/pace/distance and walk first, then run/walk with an empty stroller before strapping in junior. Don't miss A Runner's Guide to Jogging Strollers over at Running Times Magazine for a comprehensive look at jogging with baby.

Take a Test Run. You wouldn't buy a car without a test drive, same goes for a stroller. Does it feel right for your body type/stride? How does it handle? Don't kick the tires, but do kick up your heels.


JoggingStroller.com has loads of advice on a variety of stroller brands for your particular needs. Strollers aren't cheap -- their FAQ section is a goldmine, turning you into a smarter consumer. Get the scoop on wheel sizes, alloy versus steel, ASTM certification and more.

What About Bob? The Bob Revolution stroller is the top-seller over at JoggingStroller. Keep the front wheel swiveled when tooling around town or fixed for a run. Scored four-out-of-five stars across 152 reviewers, but some complained of a too-slouched seat back.

Stroller Frame of Mind. Realize that jogging with a child is fraught with disturbances, so turn those negatives into fitness positives. Every time the little guy heaves that sippy cup, you get to stretch your hamstrings. If she's begging to get out of the saddle, park in a grassy area and do some push-ups, band work, then hydrate.

Go With a Professional. You may be antsy to drop the extra baby weight pronto, but if you love camaraderie on the trail with responsible advice, give Stroller Strides a try. With 1,112 classes in 47 states, Stroller Strides will teach you how to run and work out with baby the right way. They use the Bob Revolution stroller and offer this cool Stroller Strides Fitness Kit, too.

Fit Family Assignment. Whether walking, jogging or bicycling, head outside on those beautiful fall days for a workout with your child. So what if you can't breeze through a 5K in your race-day 25 minutes or less, stop watching jog times so closely and enjoy the fitness bond with family. Don't worry, you'll get your heart rate up.

If you're into family bicycling, check out these cargo solutions.