Jogger Stroller - Baby Strollers For Keeping Fit

 
A Woman Pushes a Baby Stroller as She Jogs Through a Wooded Area Photographic PrintBrown, SkipBuy at AllPosters.com

A Jogger Stroller and The Great Outdoors

We all agree that fresh air and exercise are essential for good health, whether you are a child or an adult. A jogger stroller is a great way to visually stimulate your baby or toddler while giving you the workout you need. Ordinary baby strollers are not meant to go fast and aren’t equipped for terrain other than sidewalks. When choosing a jogger stroller there are many models to choose, from the basic no-frills to one with amenities for both child and adult.

InStep Ultra Runner Jogging Stroller (Red/Gold/LtGray/Dk. Gray)

Jogger Stroller Wheels - Which Are The Best?

One of the most important features on a jogger stroller is the wheels. Since they take most of the wear you want them to be strong and durable but also able to give you the least resistance as you are jogging. There are two types of wheels, aluminum alloy and steel. While you might think that steel would be the better choice, it is highly unsuitable for damp climates as it is prone to rust. If you live in a coastal or mountain zone or anywhere that it snows, you are better off getting aluminum alloy wheels. Aluminum is lighter in weight, does not rust and most of the higher end jogger strollers use them.

What size wheels you get depends on where you will be jogging. Bigger wheels work best on rougher terrain, curbs or steps; they offer less resistance and glide along better than smaller ones but are harder to turn than smaller wheels. 20" wheels are the best for running and off-road use. 16’" wheels are good for light off-road use, on a dirt path for example. They are also a good size for walking around town, allowing the stroller dual function. 12" wheels and swivel wheels are strictly for walking on paved surfaces, not jogging or running.

You will also notice that you have a choice between fixed wheels or swivel wheels. Swivel front wheels are a new innovation introduced just a few years ago. They are very easy to turn and excellent for indoor use where maneuverability is essential, as in the aisles of a store. For the serious jogger, fixed wheels are best. While swivel wheels can turn on a dime, they are not made for heavy running.

Schwinn Joyrider Jogging Stroller (Red/Gray)

Cushioning And Comfort

Your child’s jogger stroller should also have shocks to cushion the ride over off-road and rugged terrain or anywhere besides a paved surface. Most manufacturers of baby strollers have already built adequate shock absorption into the design of their strollers but a little extra can’t hurt if the price difference isn’t exorbitant. As for color, you should be bright and visible! If your stroller is a dark color in order to hide the dirt, be sure to attach a few day-glo flags or strips to the seat, sides and canopy.

Jogger Strollers And Newborns

Newborns  need a lot of support for their heads and bodies and are not strong enough for the inevitable bumpier ride they would get with a jogging parent. For this reason it is best to wait until your baby has proper head control before taking them out jogging with you.