Running Safety Tips for the First Time Parent

by BOB Gear on October 3, 2016 in Active Parenting

Many parents think that when their first child is born, it’s time to hang up the running shoes for good. Your new, hectic schedule doesn’t allow much time away from your little one. But with a reliable running stroller like BOB Gear, you don’t have to give up your active lifestyle to be a parent.

The thought of running with your baby can be intimidating. But with proper safety measures, you can bring your little companion with you. Here are some basic tips to get you started running with your baby:

Talk to a Doctor

Safety should come first before anything else, so you’ll want to be sure your little one is big enough to endure the bumps and turns during a run. You should also read the stroller recommendations and safety tips for your specific product. It’s recommended that you keep your baby in an infant car seat and adapter for the first 8 weeks of life. Then, until your baby is about 8 months old, it’s best to keep your outdoor adventures to a fast walk. Littles ones’ neck muscles aren’t developed enough to handle a full bore run. Children develop at different paces, so be sure to talk to the pediatrician before you take them out for their first run.

Take it Easy

Running with a stroller is a tougher workout than running without one. Keep this is mind as you start to take your child with you during runs. You might not be able to maintain quite as fast a pace as you’re used to, especially at first. Allow yourself time to grow accustomed to this new way of exercising. Remember to stay at a speed that gives you precise control of the stroller at all times. With the stroller’s wrist safety strap, you can be confident that the stroller will always be in arm’s reach.

Ditch the Music

We all love putting our headphones in for background music while exercising, but when you bring your baby along, it’s best to go without. You’ll want to stay alert to your surroundings and to your child’s reaction. If they get uncomfortable or fussy during the run, you can tend to their needs right away.

Take Frequent Breaks

Babies love being on board the stroller during exercise classes or on jogs, but it can be good to get into the habit of taking breaks every once in a while. Plan your route with a park somewhere along the way, so you can take them out to play at the halfway mark.

Bring Toys and Snacks

While little ones love to nap or just look out at their surroundings when they’re in the stroller, it’s still a good idea to bring back up. Snacks, water, books and small toys are all great options to take along for the ride. Stroller toys and water bottles that tuck into the stroller’s side pockets are best, so they don’t get lost or fall out.

Register and Maintain Your Stroller

Just like cars or bikes, jogging strollers should be maintained to ensure they are in good condition. Protect the seat, wheels and hardware from the weather elements by storing it indoors, and wipe it clean of dirt and debris after an outing. Be sure to register your product, so you will be updated with any safety alerts or recalls.

You shouldn’t have to choose between being a parent and staying active. If you follow standard safety procedures and receive approval from a pediatrician beforehand, there is no reason why your little one can’t accompany you on all your outdoor adventures! Check out our stroller safety tips for more information about running with a jogging stroller.