Want to get a bit fitter now that baby is here? We put some of the best running strollers through their paces
It can be hard to get some exercise when you’re a new mom, as leaving your baby with a friend, relative or in a creche may feel too difficult at first, especially if you’re breastfeeding. So, one solution is to get some exercise with your baby along for the ride – quite literally! There are several companies that make great quality, dedicated running strollers and whether you’re in training for your next marathon, or just looking for a gentle walk, one could be just right for you!
What are running strollers?
Running strollers are specially designed strollers that are for parents to want to walk, jog or run with their little one in tow. They have a larger, longer chassis than most standard strollersand larger wheels, to make the ride smooth. Typically, the front wheel is a single, fixed wheel, to allow the strollers to run in a line forwards. It should also have good suspension and tyres so that bumps aren’t so noticeable.
They can cost a bit more than regular strollers and can be an extra expense you might not be willing to make if you already have a stroller. But for many new parents, they are a lifeline when it comes to getting out into the fresh air and into nature, getting some exercise and still being able to be with your baby. They will also help you avoid injury, as they help you run correctly.
What should I look for?
Make sure the strollers you look at fulfils the basic needs of a proper running strollers:
- Good suspension
- Large pneumatic (air-filled) tyres – make sure you also buy a pump and puncture repair kit
- A fixed front wheel (some have a lock that allows it to swivel but only when you are not running)
- An adjustable handlebar height
- A handbrake
- A wrist strap that ties the buggy to you if you happened to slip and let go of the handle
This is a sturdy, well-made running strollers from the Scandinavian company that also makes car roof boxes, bike seats and strollers. It is light, which is good for lifting and transporting when folded (it can be folded with one hand), yet it’s good as a serious piece of running gear. The front wheel can be locked in the forward-facing direction and it can also swivel for those times when you just want to nip into the store after a run. The handle can be adjusted to suit your height – make sure you get it just right to avoid bending – and it has good suspension on the large, 16 inch rear wheels to make it a smooth ride for your baby. The brake is on the handlebar, so you can come to a safe stop even at a fast pace and the wrist strap offers security. The seat is over the back axle, making it more comfortable for your little one and the seat can be reclined almost flat, so it’s good from about six months (you could add a bassinet from birth), plus it has a good harness and generous canopy with side ventilation panels and peek-a-boo window. Last of all, its decent basket means you can combine a run in the park with a shop on the way home!
This is a very sturdy and sleek runner with large, pneumatic bicycle style wheels and it’s designed for off-road jogging as well as city streets. Suitable from birth, it will continue to be comfortable for a four year old and it has a multi-position seat that lies flat for newborns (though they recommend you only start to use it as a runner when your baby reaches six months). The wrist strap keep it tied to you when running and the brakes are mounted on both handlebar and the base of the chassis. It has a lightweight aluminum frame and quick-release wheels and inside is a five-pint safety harness to keep your little one secure. You can also buy this a double pushchair, suitable for twins or siblings of different ages.
This stroller is suitable from six months and has a good suspension system and high-impact wheels that will offer a smooth ride for baby. It can be used for both running and skating, if you happen to live near a rink or streams that freezes properly, and its height adjustable handle comes with a security wrist strap. The frame is nice and light and it folds easily with a two-step function and the front wheel can either be locked in place or allowed to swivel for when you are not moving fast. The backrest has an impressive five positions and a padded safety harness and the canopy offers good weather protection and a viewing window so you can check on your baby.
This stroller is designed for proper running and has that all-important lockable front wheel to help you ride smoothly in a forwards direction. Turn it to swivel mode after you have finished your run to help you nip into a store or two. The handle is adjustable so that it suits any height parent and the tyres are air-filled with ball bearings inside the hubs for an ultra-smooth ride. It features good suspension and the seat is well padded for your baby’s comfort. The canopy is extra large to shade your baby from sun, rain and wind and you have handy cup holders for your water bottle. It comes with an infant car seat to make a great travel system.
This travel system, which comes with an infant car seat and car seat base, comes with a quick and easy one-handed fold action for convenience. The parent gets two cup holders for your water and energy drink and your little one has one for a drink on the go. There’s a good sized shopping basket for all you need for a trip and the handle height can be adjusted through three positions. The seat reclines through several positions for sleeping and waking rides for your little one and the large canopy keeps them well shaded.
This jogging stroller has air-filled tyres, suspension on all three wheels and nice reflective accents to keep you safe when it’s dark out. The fabrics are nice and comfortable with a padded seat and the pushchair can be folded quickly and easily with just one hand. The brake is located on the handlebar, where there’s also a wrist strap and there’s a foot brake too for parking. The seat can be reclined through several positions and it has side vents for warmer days and a large 50+ UV canopy with a peek-a-boo window for swift checks on your sleeping baby. The shopping basket is large too, so it’s a good all-rounder.
Further reading:
How teething leads to sleep regression
Which SnoozeShade should I choose for my pushchair?
Read all about how your baby can have naps while you're on the go
