Many new mothers find they have some pregnancy pounds to lose postpartum and little time without baby to get in their exercise, which is where my tips for running with a stroller come in handy! Just because you are now a mom does not mean it is time to hand over your fit figure and put on "mom clothes" forever. You can reclaim your pre-pregnancy body, become healthier, and still be with your baby while doing so. As a certified trainer and mother of three, believe me, I am no stranger to running with a stroller! I have spent countless miles and hours running with my three children in a stroller. So now let me tell you how you can begin running with your children to lose those pregnancy pounds, get healthier and have fun with baby while doing so! Here are 7 tips for running with a stroller... maybe they ought to call it a "runner" rather than a "stroller," huh?
Before you begin running make sure you have the clearance from your doctor at your postpartum visit. Once you receive this clearance you can carry on, and finish reading my tips for running with a stroller!
Different strollers have different age guidelines but most recommend waiting until your baby has neck support. Once your baby is ready you can embark on a journey of health and wellness together. Your baby can take in the scenery and enjoy the fresh air while you get your workout in! While you are running, make sure to identify the sights. By explaining to the baby simple things it will help to educate your baby and help him to understand all that you are exploring!
As a child you your first steps were not a sprint; you began by walking. And as you became stronger and more advanced you learned to run. Use this same approach as you run with a stroller and your body will adapt more easily. Pushing a 30-pound stroller with a 15-pound baby inside sure feels like a lot when you are running!
Make sure to maintain a healthy posture. Do not lean down onto the stroller as this is unsafe because will not only put pressure on your back but also may cause the stroller to tip. So run tall with confidence, because you are one amazing mama!
Believe me your run will go much smoother with baby if you are prepared. So I always pack toys for the baby to be entertained while I run and also a snack (like veggie puffs). I also always pack a diaper and a wipe so I am prepared to do a changing. If mid run the baby gets hungry I stop for a few to give him a little snack.
You can use the storage area at the bottom of the running stroller for a jacket and a blanket in case the baby gets cold. Just because you are warm while you are running does not mean the baby will not feel cold or feel the breeze while you run, so be prepared.
When running with a stroller, you can get back into shape, take baby along for the fun and fresh air, and not have to worry about separation anxiety for you or the baby. So get out there and have a great run!
Start gradual, be safe and have a great time! Running with a stroller has so many benefits for new moms so take advantage of this time. So now that you have these great tips what are you waiting for?