Stroller Workout

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by Lisa Druxman on December 16, 2013 in Active Parenting, Lisa Druxman

So, you’re a runner! And now you’re a parent! Yes, you can be both. This article is written to help you make the most of your runs when you have your stroller along. First off, make sure you have your doctor’s permission to start a running workout. Most doctors will recommend a 6-week “break” from exercise after childbirth. From there, take care to build up slowly and listen to your body. The better shape you were in before baby, the quicker you’ll recover. But, you do need to recover. Exercise should be stress reducing not stress promoting.

Proper Form

  • Walk with good posture at all times.

  • Keep shoulders low and pulled back.

  • Lead with your chest. Imagine that you had a string attached at your sternum (the bone between your breasts) and it was pulling you forward.

  • Hold in your abs, not your breath.

  • Keep a soft bend in your arms and keep wrists in neutral alignment.

  • When walking or running, feet and knees should be facing forward. You can do long, powerful strides and/or short, quick strides.

Stroller Tips

  • The most common postural dysfunction when pushing a stroller is to hunch forward. Make sure to keep shoulders down and back throughout your walk.

  • Many moms experience carpal tunnel syndrome during or after pregnancy due to swelling in the wrist. Pushing a stroller incorrectly can exacerbate this problem so be sure to keep wrists in neutral alignment on handlebars.

  • Do any of your walking stretches go down hill? If so, always use the safety strap on your stroller! Sit into your stride a little and get those thighs working. Be careful not to let the stroller pull your posture forward. Going down hill can still be a workout!

Safety First

  • Safety is number one. Always be careful of cars and the environment when working out with your baby.

  • Always keep stroller a hand’s reach away from you if you’re working out beside your stroller.

  • Never lean or pull on stroller during workout or stretching.

What Kind of Stroller Can I Use?
A Jogging Stroller (often called an off-road stroller) is recommended for running workouts. Benefits of a jogger are that they are easier to steer and maneuver and are designed so you can get a proper stride. Make sure your baby is the appropriate weight and age for your brand of stroller. Ideally, find a stroller that has shock absorbers and is easy to fold. FIT4MOM offers a “fitness” stroller developed by BOB GEAR.

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