Running with a Stroller: BOB Gear® Safety Checklist
This article is written to provide tips and guidelines for the use of BOB Gear jogging strollers only. It does not replace the user guide. Always consult your user guide for instructions and warnings.
Becoming a parent shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the activities you love. In fact, if you’re a fitness enthusiast, an outdoor lover, or adventure seeker, starting a family can give you the perfect opportunity to fall in love with your favorite hobbies all over again – this time with a new little adventure buddy by your side. Whether you’re eager to start running with a stroller or taking your little one on hikes to enjoy the scenery and fresh air, there’s one key factor that can help you make the most of these exciting adventures with your child: safety.
At BOB Gear, we’re committed to providing durable, high-performance jogging strollers that help enable families to explore the outdoors together with confidence and peace of mind. To help you prepare for safe, enjoyable, and memorable jogs, we’ve put together a BOB Gear jogging stroller safety checklist. By following these essential tips, you’ll be taking a step in the right direction to protect your child and enhance your jogging experience, making the most of what BOB Gear has to offer.
1. Consult Your Pediatrician: Before running with a stroller, consult your pediatrician to confirm that your child is ready. For infants who do not yet have sufficient head and neck control, use your BOB Gear stroller for walks only with an infant car seat and adapters. Never run or jog with an infant or with an infant car seat attached to the stroller.
Wondering which car seats and adapters are compatible with your BOB Gear stroller? Check out our compatibility chart.
2. Use the 5-Point Harness: Whether you’re walking or jogging with the stroller, secure your child with the 5-point harness system every time. Ensure that the straps are adjusted to be snug and that the harness is buckled securely.
3. Check Tire Pressure Regularly: Maintain the tire pressure at the recommended 30 psi (for BOB Gear strollers) to help ensure optimal performance and safety. Check the tire pressure before each use to help avoid any potential issues while jogging or walking. Our Deluxe Handlebar Console for single jogging strollers comes with a tire pump for easy maintenance.
4. Lock the Front Wheel for Jogging: When jogging or running with the stroller, always switch the stroller into jog mode by locking the front wheel. Check your user guide for instructions on how to switch the stroller into jog mode. This can help prevent the stroller from losing control and tipping over.
5. Engage the Parking Brake: Always set the parking brake when the stroller is stationary, even if you’re only stopping for a moment. You should also set the parking brake while you’re securing your child in the seat.
6. Adjust the Handlebar: BOB Gear strollers are designed with an adjustable handlebar that helps ensure comfort for parents of different heights. Adjust it to your preferred height to help maintain control and reduce strain while pushing the stroller.
7. Use the Wrist Strap: Always use the wrist strap when you're running with your stroller. This safety feature helps prevent the stroller from getting away from you, especially on uneven terrain or when jogging downhill.
8. Regularly Inspect Your Stroller: Before each use, perform a quick safety check. Verify the tire pressure, ensure that all screws and fasteners are tight, check that the wheels are secure, and look for any fabric tears or excessive wear. If you notice any parts that need to be replaced, contact our customer service department to place an order.
9. Avoid Overloading: Overloading the stroller can compromise its stability and performance. Never exceed the maximum weight capacity listed in your user guide. Be sure to account for the weight of your child and any added weight from bags or personal items in the storage areas.
Don’t attach any items to the stroller handlebar except for those specifically recommended by BOB Gear. Instead, keep toys, bags, gear, and other items in the storage basket.
10. Be Cautious & Aware: Use extreme caution when walking on uneven, wet, or slick surfaces. Stick to smoother paths whenever possible. Always be aware of your surroundings and plan your jogs for times when there’s plenty of light and good visibility.
With these tips in mind, you can set yourself up for safe and memorable jogs with your BOB Gear stroller and your running buddy. We hope that you’ll embrace the active parenting lifestyle with confidence, knowing that you have taken every step to keep your little one safe.