Jogging With Your Newborn: Safety Guide
If you’re an avid jogger, chances are that you’ll be ready to get right back into it after giving birth. The best jogging strollers are wonderful options for those who want to enjoy a run without hiring a babysitter to watch their little one. You can even bring along a bottle, snacks, a few diapers, and other just-in-case essentials underneath just in case you need then while you're out and about.
However, just because you’ve purchased the jogging stroller doesn’t mean that you can start using it right away. The question of whether or not newborns can ride in jogging strollers is a serious one. Here’s everything there is to know about jogging strollers and at what age you can start taking your baby out with you on a run.
Don’t Run with Baby Until 6 to 8 Months
As much as you may want to bring your little one with you on daily jogs, you absolutely should not do this until his or her neck muscles have developed. Newborns have weak neck muscles, which is why you have to offer head and neck support when holding a newborn. If you put a newborn into a jogging stroller, his or her neck won’t be protected from all the bouncing around that occurs during a jog.
That being said, most newborns will have developed enough neck muscles to make a jogging stroller a safe option by the time they reach six to eight months. If you feel that your baby is ready to ride in a jogging stroller and has developed strong neck muscles, check with your doctor before going on your first run.
Do Not Try to Jog with Any Stroller
As tempting as it may be to take your daily stroller and use it for a jog at the park, refrain from doing this. You’ll need a jogging stroller that is made for a sport-specific ride, Jogging strollers come with large tires that help reduce the amount of bouncing your baby feels during the run. Additionally, jogging strollers have shocks that also help to absorb bounce.
Furthermore, jogging strollers come with a locking front wheel that works in two ways. If you’re turning a tight corner, the stroller will go into swivel mode to offer top maneuverability, Conversely, if you’re on a straight path and picking up speed, the stroller will go into a locked mode to help keep your stroller from tipping over during your jog. Many jogging strollers also have a hand brake and wrist wrap that can assist with inclines.
Jogging Stroller Safety Precautions
If you prefer to jog in the evenings or early mornings before the sun has reached its peak, it’s important to add reflective accents to the top, front, and sides of your jogging stroller. In doing this, you’ll make your stroller more visible to passing motorists.
You should also make sure that your baby is always buckled safely into the stroller. Even if your child is sleeping peacefully, jogging without buckling in your child is a major safety concern, as he or she may fall out of the stroller if you maneuver the stroller too quickly.
If you have to pass through busy intersections, always wait for a pedestrian walking signal before crossing the street. If you see that you’re running out of time to cross the street, wait patiently for the next round of crossings rather than sprint across an intersection with your baby.
Finally, your jogging stroller should come with a parking brake. Always engage this brake whenever you’re stopped and have taken your hands off the stroller. Even if you’re only taking a sip from a water fountain, make sure your stroller is parked and stabilized.
Plan Your Running Schedule Around Your Baby
Every baby is different, but in general, it’s best to plan your jogs around your baby’s meal and sleep schedules. Some parents find that their child is most ready for a jog after a meal when he or she is feeling content and ready for stimulation. Alternatively, longer jogs may be a great way to help put your baby to sleep before a long nap.
It’s also important to remember that not all babies are going to love riding in a jogging stroller right away. If you find that your little one doesn’t enjoy it immediately, start with shorter walks that give him or her a chance to get used to the motion. Moms of two may find that their little ones can even keep each other entertained while riding in a double stroller! Take it easy at first, enjoy the fresh air, and get fit again after having a baby!
Resources— Parents, RunnersWorld
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