Top Tips for Running with your Baby in 2024

by Jess Pongrass
26 July 2023
6 min read

What tips do you need to run with baby?

Pram Tips

My first tip would be making sure your pram is fit for running; a true running pram has two essential elements, a hand-operated drum brake and a lockable front wheel, you'll also want air-filled tyres for better suspension. There are some hybrid prams available where the front-wheel is interchangeable between everyday use and a running wheel, so you don't have to purchase two separate prams.

It is also strongly recommended to wait until your passenger is at least 9-months old before you run with them, even though your pram may be approved from newborn or 6-months plus for walking. Be sure that their neck/head control is strong enough before you start running.

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Accessories for the Ride

So, once you've picked the right pram, make sure you've got all the right accessories to make your running easy and fun. Check whether it comes with a rain and/or sun cover, an organiser/caddy is nice to have to keep your mobile, keys and drink close at hand, or you might just opt for a drink holder. Your pram may not come with a tyre pump so be sure to add this to your purchase as it will be essential and you should keep it in the pram storage somewhere so it's ready whenever you need it. (If you're a bit more handy than most, you might also add a tyre-puncture repair kit to your onboard essentials - otherwise make friends with your local bike shop, they can pump your tyres, replace the tubes and oil the brakes for you!)

Tips for Baby & Mum

Make sure before every run you've got everything your little passenger will need to keep them engaged during your run. Drinks, snacks, toys, sunglasses, hat, suncream, wipes & tissues are on my list! (Also a quick trip to the toilet if you're taking a toddler is advised!) Always be sure to check your equipment before you leave home, are your tyres pumped, are your brakes clean or squeaking, is your handlebar in the right position (should be a natural right-angle at your elbow), are your laces done up in a double-bow). Then you're ready to run & roll!

You may or may not have been a runner pre-kiddo so this is for the newbies - be sure to stretch pre & post run. Pre-run you can do a 5-10 minute stand up dynamic/active warm-up where the aim is to loosen up the joints & muscles, just search "pre-run warm up" and YouTube has some great 7-min options to follow along to. When you return from your run, spend as long as you can 15-30 minutes on the floor doing long-hold stretches, focusing on your legs, hips & back. Your body will thank you and it will be easier to get out for that next run again sooner.

12 Tips for Running with your Pram

When you do finally step out the door, congratulate yourself - just getting out there is an achievement in itself! Then when you hit the pavement, here are my top tips:

Run with a smile on your face, enjoy the fact that you're outdoors with your kiddo, breathe deeply, open your chest and have fun
Set yourself a goal each run, maybe today it's 1km or running continuously for 5-minutes, but try not to run for pace ~ pushing a pram does add resistance so you're never going to be as fast as when you run solo
Try not to "push" the pram, the momentum of you running and the large air-filled wheels should be enough to propel the pram with the lightest touch
Try to run with one hand on the pram handlebar and the other as you normally would (like a piston at your side) ~ trying to run with both hands on the handlebar limits the natural movement of your hips and tends to make you lean forward (try to switch hands so it's not just your dominant hand always - suggest each km)
Try to remain as upright as you would if you were running without a pram, think about drawing the crown of your head to the sky, and pushing your hips up/forward
Try to run 'up' rather than 'forward', this sounds silly but give it a go and it will make more sense - your body is designed to move forward naturally, your feet should land under your hips, not out in front of you
When running uphill you will need to rest both hands on the handlebar, but be sure to keep your arms at a right-angle so your body is quite close the pram, rather than stretching your arms out straight as the load will be heavier the further it is away from you (this tip applies to walking with your pram too!)
When running downhill again it's best to have both hands on the pram, one on the handlebar and the other on the hand-brake, turning it slightly towards you to slow the pram down, this will also help you maintain your natural pace and ensure the pram does not get away from you
Definitely keep the safety wrist strap on as often as possible and definitely if you're running downhill
Listen to your body, if you're thirsty stop and take a sip, if you've got a cramp stop and stretch it out, if you're feeling fatigued, walk the rest of the way, and if you're feeling a stitch open your arms out wide look up to the sky and slow you're breathing down
Plan your route out ahead of you, try to stick to flat, wide paths as much as possible
If the pram feels hard to push, check the tyres - you might have a flat.

I've been running with the Thule Chariot Sport (single) with my nearly-3-year-old who is approx. 15kg while the pram itself is 14kg ~ sounds like a lot to push but the design of the Chariot incorporates lightweight aluminium, an aerodynamic shape, and quality oversized air-filled tyres to improve suspension, making it really easy to push. The Chariot comes with 4-wheels out of the box plus an included bike trailer kit. You can purchase the Jogging kit separately which includes the lockable front wheel to increase stability at higher speeds and to reduce veering on uneven terrains.

Our Top Running Prams & Strollers for 2024

After reading all the tips, you are now ready to go on a stroll with your little one! Discover my top picks that will make your jogging adventures with your little one a breeze. From sleek designs to smooth rides, these top-notch prams have got you covered. Lace-up your sneakers and hit the pavement with confidence, knowing you've got the best gear on your side.

Single Prams & Strollers

Baby Jogger Summit X3 Stroller - With its all-wheel suspension, this all-terrain marvel combines safety, comfort, and style, ensuring a smooth ride for your little one.
Cybex AVI Running Stroller - Designed for active parents, this sleek and high-performance stroller promises smooth jogs while keeping your little one safe and comfy.
Mountain Buggy Terrain - This all-terrain stroller tackles trails like a pro, offering smooth rides and rugged durability. Embrace adventures with your little one today!
UPPAbaby Ridge Stroller - This sleek, durable, and lightweight stroller is perfect for city adventures and countryside escapes. Say hello to effortless walks with your little one!
Thule Urban Glide 3 Stroller - An all-terrain single stroller with a sleek, lightweight design, making it perfect for urban exploration or strolling on a favourite path.

Double Prams & Strollers

Thule Urban Glide 3 Double - An all-terrain side-by-side double stroller with a sleek, lightweight design, making it perfect for everyday urban exploration or strolling on a favourite path with two babies.
T hule Chariot Sport 2 - The ultimate trailer, jogger, and stroller with great performance, comfort, and style for athletes and their kids.

You can also read through our Top 30 Prams & Strollers of 2024 to see some more of our favourite running strollers!

With love, BVx

For more reviews by Jess and the team at Baby Village, subscribe to our Youtube channel Baby Village TV so you don't miss a thing! Otherwise, we'd love to see you instore for a test drive!

Written by: Jess Pongrass
As the Face of Baby Village Jess is passionate about bringing the best options to parents & bubs to make life easy, fun & safe! Jess’s mantra as a Mum is try everything and see what sticks!

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