Whether you’re a 10K runner or someone who enjoys a brisk walk around the neighborhood, there’s no reason you should stop doing what you love when you have kids.
In fact, once you become a parent, self-care becomes even more important. Making time to exercise, get some fresh air and do things just for you can make you feel like a whole new person.
One thing that makes staying active even easier is jogging the stroller.
Thule Glide 2
Thule designed the Glide 2 for serious runners who want to incorporate their kids into their training routine. designed for speed, this jogging stroller features fixed front wheels and room in the back of the stroller to accommodate your full stride. It’s light, at just 23 lbs. The ergonomic handlebar adjusts its position to fit your natural running position and includes a belt attachment to ensure the stroller never leaves. A single twist handbrake in the middle of the barbell allows runners to check deceleration with just one hand. “The handbrake is very important for all-around safety. You’ll feel much more comfortable on hilly courses, but it’s also great for quick stops at urban crosswalks,” says Nurse Amanda, an elite runner, running coach and founder of Wellness in Motion Coaching. “As kids get older and gain weight, rest becomes more and more important.”
The rear suspension system and 18-inch rear wheels provide stability and comfort even when carrying a preschooler with a 49-pound child weight limit. “The stroller is easy to maneuver on roads and trails, it’s narrow (for busy sidewalks and streets) and very easy to fold and travel in,” said Nurse.
A reclining padded seat with a padded five-point harness keeps kids comfortable, while a ventilated canopy with a hide-and-seek window protects them from the sun. The jogging stroller has a large storage basket at the bottom that is protected by a zippered lid to ensure nothing falls out while you’re running.
Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Stroller
“I love that the tires are actually tires and the crack in the sidewalk/walkway doesn’t bother my daughter too much when running over it. She loves riding on this thing! Overall, I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a budget friendly but good quality jogging stroller!” One of over 1,500 five-star reviewers who wrote about this affordable model. For those of you who run with two kids and want a smooth ride at an affordable price, you’re in luck: the Expedition Jogger is also available as a tandem stroller.
Revolution Flex 3.0 Jogging Stroller
BOB Gear touts this stroller as offering mountain bike-style suspension. In our testing, we found that this design feature helps mitigate the effects of rough terrain for better traction. The stroller also includes a large UPF 50+ canopy, peek-a-boo window and a swivel front wheel that can be locked for stability while jogging. Our consumer reviewers raved about the adjustable nine-position handlebar feature: “I’m 4’10” and my husband is 6’2″, so it’s great that we can both push the stroller comfortably,” wrote one. She went on to say that the stroller is light and easy to fold. For younger children, the stroller is compatible with a variety of infant car seats, so you can seamlessly turn it into a travel system at your own convenience – just don’t forget to buy the adapters sold separately! As with all jogging strollers, consult your pediatrician to make sure it’s safe to jog with your infant.
Graco FastAction Fold Jogger Stroller
You can attach any Graco infant car seat to this stroller with a secure one-step attachment, allowing it to be used as a regular everyday stroller for younger children. The parent tray has a smartphone holder for easy access to the phone and a storage bin with a lid to easily store snacks and small items like keys and towels. And, if your hands are full when you put the stroller away, the brand claims it has a “one-step fold” feature that allows it to stand on its own.
Summit X3 Jogging Stroller
The Baby Jogger Summit X3 is a sturdy and durable stroller with a very cool feature – a manually pumped rear brake. This provides spectacular wheel control when you need it most. It also has a tether strap for safety on downhill or trail runs.
It’s compatible with car seats, but you can also purchase the bassinet attachment for additional use, thanks to its impressive 75-pound weight limit, making it a true stroller for infants through preschoolers.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the huge storage compartment underneath the stroller, which will easily accommodate all your needs and those of your child in the long run.
