Keeping active after having a baby can be challenging – finding time to get to the gym, sorting out childcare while you exercise and not to mention dealing with exhaustion – it’s no wonder many parents struggle.
However, one way to make your fitness goals a little easier to achieve is through involving your baby in your routine. Taking up running with your pushchair is a great way to achieving this. You get the workout without any of the associated problems of trying to find a baby-friendly gym or class.
Here are a few points to think about and our top tips before you stride out with your baby in tow:
Wait until your child can sit up independently
First off, if you're going to run with your baby, they should be able to sit up and hold their head up. The recommended minimum age is six to nine months.
Invest in a specialist running pushchair
When looking for a pushchair to run with, choose one that's designed for where you want to run – either off road or pavement running. Also consider characteristics like wheel position, handle height, handbrake and folding. Ideally, you need wheels which are at least 16 inches in diameter, strong suspension and shock absorption.
Pushchairs you can run with (under £500)
- Mountain Buggy - Terrain £499
- Out n About Nipper - V4 £284.95
- Baby Jogger Summit - X3 £489.99
- Phil and Teds Sport Buggy £399
- Hauk Runner Pushchair £149.95
Prepare
Check the forecast and bring suitable clothing and blankets for your baby. Wear proper running shoes and drink plenty of water. You should also do a warm up and cool down exercise before and after each run.
Check your posture
You should only have a light hold on the handle bars so use a wrist strap for safety. Make sure your handle bars are high enough that you're not bending over while running – you should be upright and straight. Keep your elbows loose and avoid locking them while running.
Choose your location
It’s your choice to run on the pavement or through parks but running in the park will be quieter and with less exposure to traffic, so it might be wise to at least start off in a park until you get more experienced.
Running with your pushchair can be great fun and an easy way to get back into shape while taking your baby out for some fresh air – you could even join up with other parents to make it a social activity as well.
google-site-verification: googleea6e70de0c1a14e5.html