Tips on How to Fit Running Into Your Life as a New Mom

Finding the time and amassing up enough motivation to have a fulfilling run after having a baby followed by a six-month period of laxity is difficult for all of us. For new moms, it is even more challenging. However, according to MovingBabies, the benefits and the happiness you will derive from being active will be worth the effort.

With that in mind, here are a few tips to help you fit running into your life as a new mom.  They will help you to fit in a run into your otherwise hectic schedule.

Fit in a Flexible Running Session in Your Hectic ‘New-Mom’ Schedule

First of all, welcome to the running moms club! Choosing to renew your energy and get fit is a courageous decision. Involving your child in this running schedule is even better and more fun. So, get that incredible jogging stroller, your running shoes, and your little angel, and head on to get into shape.

However, before the two of you hit the road for the first time, here are a few things you should know:

You Might be Prepared to Have a Run, But is Your Child Ready?

According to the rule of thumb, 6-8 months old is the period you need to take before deciding to put your baby in tandem and running with him or her. It is based on the fact that up until this age infants don’t possess the head control and neck strength needed to protect their little bobbleheads from the bouncing that comes with the bumps and jolts that accompany you when riding in a jogging stroller, like those at CheekyTummy.

However, this rule might vary from one toddler to another and factors such as car seat adaptors, and neck support pillows may assist you in your decision.

So you need to ensure that you consult your pediatrician first, to weigh the pros and cons and decide if your angel is ready to accompany you in your run or ride.

Equip Yourself with a Solid Jogging Stroller

Once you get the go-ahead from your doctor, then it is time to find a perfect model that matches your baby’s height, has excellent suspension for the comfort of your toddler, solid wheels and one that has an option to lock the front wheel and a safety strap for your wrist.

You should not at any one point attempt to go on your run with a traditional four-wheel stroller since their design is not suitable for jogging and it could create an unsafe environment for your baby. Instead, choose a comfortable, sturdy jogging stroller with features that can withstand the harsh jogging terrains.

You need to also keep in mind that your stroller requires proper maintenance. So:

• Inspect the tires before each run and make sure none are going flat.
• Make sure there are no loose screws or anything else out of place.
• Lubricate the shock piston if need be.

If you, however, need a break from running due to an incurred injury, an excellent way to get out the house is to pop your child in a functional bike trailer and go for a ride to the park.

Remember, Tandem Running/Jogging Techniques Differ

You took some time off, and for the last couple of months, you have been in relaxation mode. So, it is apparent that you are going to feel, and most likely be slower from the pushing involved with all of this extra weight in front of you.

However, you should not let your slower pace bring you down, but instead, think of it some incredible resistance training that is going to make you stronger and faster!

To make things even better, since you will be having your arms out in front of you when holding the stroller, your posture and running gait will change significantly.

You should also remember to alternate your hands—about every 5 minutes— to curb any bad habits and have consistent results. You don’t want to have one arm flabby arm and the other toned.

One more thing, always ensure that you do not lean into the stroller, especially near the end of a run when you are famished. Instead, maintain an upright posture and keep your elbows bent.

Safety is Crucial

Safety is probably the last thing anyone needs to remind you when dealing with your child. However, it is that you take advantage of the safety features jogging strollers offer. So, to ensure the security of your baby:

• You need to know the paths you are about to run on and that there are no surprises along the road that could harm your child – make sure that they are stroller friendly.
• You MUST also check the weather, consult your local weather channel, and keep in mind that while you are hot and sweaty, your infant is not only sitting still but is being subjected to the harsh elements as well.
• If your stroller has a wrist wrap and you are likely to go down a hill, ensure that you wrap your hand around it. Jogging strollers will without a doubt pick up speed going downhill, and if any unexpected and unthinkable thing happens and it slips out of your grasp, that strap will prevent the buggy from getting away from you.
• Watch your every step. The pothole that you once skipped over now has to be navigated through/around with a bulky stroller. So, make sure you are alert. You do not want to crash into it and cause your baby to topple

Remember, you are now responsible for two people. You are allowed to be paranoid about the safeness of that route, or if the extremity of the weather, if it’s too dark, or any other number of other factors. Never let your guard down!  You can fit running into your life as a new mom and enjoy all the benefits!