Running with Your Growing Baby: A Guide to BOB Gear® Jogging Strollers for First-Time Parents

Woman running with a jogging stroller

This article does not replace the user guide. Always consult your user guide for instructions and warnings.  

This article is written to provide tips and guidelines for the use of BOB Gear jogging strollers only.  

Running with your child in a BOB Gear jogging stroller can be a fantastic way to stay active while spending quality time together. However, it's important to follow specific guidelines to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your little one. Whether you're a seasoned runner or a jogging novice, this guide will help you get started safely with your BOB Gear jogging stroller.  

When Can You Run with a Baby?

Age Guidelines (for select models): Before you hit the trail, it’s crucial to make sure that your child is ready. Infants should not be taken running in a stroller until they have sufficient neck strength to support their head. Always consult with your pediatrician to confirm your child’s readiness before you start running with a stroller. Some of our models also have stricter age restrictions, so be sure to check your user manual for specific guidelines. 

If you’d like to use your BOB Gear stroller for walks or strolls with newborns, you can use compatible adapters to attach an infant car seat (select models only) to your stroller. Note that you should never run or jog with an infant or with an infant car seat attached to the stroller.  

To find out which car seats and adapters are compatible with your BOB Gear stroller, click here.

Key Features of BOB Gear Jogging Strollers

BOB Gear strollers come equipped with several high-performance features that make them suitable for jogging and for off-road use, including:  

  • An Adjustable Handlebar: Helps ensure a comfortable grip for parents of different heights. 

  • A 5-Point Harness: Helps keep your child secure during the run. 

  • A Front Wheel Swivel Knob or Locking Switch: Easily switch from walk mode (swivel) to jog mode (locked). 

  • A Front Wheel Tracking Knob: Adjusts the alignment of the front wheel to help maintain straight rolling. 

  • A Stroller Parking Brake: Provides stability when you need to stop. 

  • Air-Filled Tires: Help provide shock absorption for smooth rides 

Preparing Your Stroller for a Run

Before you start running with your stroller, take the time to familiarize yourself with the instructions and warnings in your user guide. If you have any questions about using your stroller, don’t hesitate to contact the customer service team for your jogging stroller brand. You can find contact information for BOB Gear’s customer service team here.   

For BOB Gear jogging strollers, ensure that you follow the following steps before each jog:  

  1. Lock the Front Wheel: Always use jog mode for running. Switching the stroller’s front wheel from swivel mode to jog mode helps prevent wobbling or tipping at faster speeds or on rough terrain, which is crucial for stability when running. Follow the instructions in your user guide on how to switch your stroller into jog mode.  

  2. Check Tire Pressure: Proper tire pressure can help provide smooth handling and help prevent the stroller from veering off course. For BOB Gear jogging strollers, the tires should be inflated to a maximum pressure of 30 pounds per square inch (PSI).  

  3. Adjust the Tracking: If the stroller pulls to one side, use the front wheel tracking knob to fine-tune the alignment. Perform this adjustment on a flat, level surface. 

Securing Your Child

To secure your child in a BOB Gear jogging stroller:  

  1. Set the Parking Brake: Always engage the parking brake when securing your child in the stroller. 

  2. Harness Your Child: Use the 5-point harness to secure your child. Be sure the straps are snug and positioned just above the shoulders. 

  3. Shock Adjustment (Select Models Only): If your BOB Gear jogging stroller includes a shock release knob, follow the instructions in your user guide to adjust the shock release settings based on your child’s weight.  

  Safety Tips for Running with a BOB Gear Jogging Stroller
  1. Use the Wrist Strap: Always use the wrist strap attached to the handlebar. This helps prevent the stroller from getting away from you. 

  2. Maintain Visibility: Schedule your runs for a time of day with plenty of light. You can also wear reflective jogging gear to help ensure that you’re visible to others.  

  3. Stay on Safe Surfaces: Stick to smooth, flat surfaces. Avoid uneven terrain, steep inclines, and slippery paths. 

  4. Perform Regular Inspections: Check the condition of your stroller before each run. Verify tire pressure, inspect for loose screws, and make certain all components are secure. 


By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience with your BOB Gear jogging stroller. Happy running!