Can You Jog With a Regular Stroller: Safety Tips & Advice

Key Takeaways

• Regular strollers are not designed for jogging or running. Using them for this purpose can lead to discomfort or injury for your child

• Jogging strollers are specifically designed to be used at a faster pace with their lockable front wheel, air-filled, bicycle-style tires, and more advanced suspension systems

• While jogging strollers may be designed for use as early as the newborn phase, it’s not safe to run with your child until they have full head and neck control (6-8 months)

• Using a jogging stroller properly is the best way to prevent injury for both you and your child

Strollers can be one of the more expensive items of baby gear, so it makes sense that parents might wonder if they really need a separate jogging stroller. While regular strollers are fine for walks on sidewalks or other relatively smooth surfaces, parents who run regularly or traverse trails and unpaved paths will need to opt for a jogging stroller to keep their little one safe.

What Defines Regular Stroller vs Jogging Stroller

The easiest way to differentiate between a regular stroller and a jogging stroller is to look at the number of wheels. A regular stroller—what most people picture when they hear the word “stroller”—has four wheels. A jogging stroller has three wheels; two in the back and one lockable wheel in the front. 

The ability to lock the front wheel makes a huge difference in stability, particularly when running. Jogging strollers also have more advanced suspension systems to keep your baby from being jostled while in motion, and some have a handbrake at the handlebar to offer additional control when moving downhill.

Potential Risks of Jogging with a Regular Stroller

Regular strollers are not designed for regular use while running or jogging. At best, your child will likely be uncomfortable due to the additional jostling and movement, but at worst you could risk injury. 

Less Control

Regular strollers are designed to be highly maneuverable in everyday spaces and are very responsive. When running or jogging at speed though, a stroller needs to be steadier and more controlled. This is where the locking front wheel becomes so important, as it provides a steadiness for the rest of the frame.

Suspension Shortcomings

Jogging strollers are designed with more robust suspension systems to protect your child from being jostled too much. 

Less Sturdy Frame

Jogging strollers have a frame designed to be sturdy and stable over a variety of terrains. Even the best full-size strollers aren’t able to compete when used at speed.

When to Consider Upgrading to a Jogging Stroller

If you plan to run regularly with your little one or even if you just plan to walk on unpaved, variable terrain, a jogging stroller is a necessary investment. 

Running is a Primary Form of Exercise

If you enjoy running as one of your main forms of exercise, a jogging stroller is a wise purchase. Yes, you might be a little bit slower while pushing it, but having one might mean the difference between getting in a run and having to skip it.

You Travel on Gravel, Sand, or Other Uneven Terrain Frequently

Even if you’re not a runner, you might appreciate the larger tires and better suspension of a jogging stroller if you traverse a lot of uneven terrain. Jogging strollers handle gravel, sand, and dirt paths much better than traditional strollers.

You Need Sturdy Maneuverability

Many jogging strollers are designed to be easily steered one-handed and their rugged frames offer an extra-sturdy feel. 

Safety Tips for Jogging with a Stroller

When it comes to running safely with a jogging stroller, there are a few tips and guidelines to keep in mind. Your child’s readiness for riding in a jogging stroller and how to use your stroller correctly are of paramount importance.

Make Sure Your Child is Old Enough for Jogging

Babies don’t have the head or neck control necessary for the movement of jogging until your baby can sit up unassisted. This milestone varies from baby to baby, but usually happens in the 6-8 month age range. Verify with your pediatrician before you begin running with your baby.

Always Harness Your Child

Make sure your child is buckled securely into their jogging stroller and that the straps are tightened enough to be supportive.

Know How Your Stroller Works

Make sure you know how to lock the front wheel and utilize your stroller’s braking mechanisms (including the handbrake, if available) before heading out for a run. Some jogging stroller functions may be less intuitive than your regular stroller, so make sure you familiarize yourself with them before you begin.

Key Features to Check Before Buying a Jogging Stroller

When you’re shopping for the best jogging stroller, there are a few key features you’ll want to look for. Consider the stroller’s wheels and suspension, maneuverability, ease of use, and comfort for both the pusher and the rider.

Wheels + Suspension

Large, no-puncture tires are a must for uneven terrain, and a robust suspension will provide for a smooth ride.

Maneuverability

The best stroller options will allow the front wheels to swivel when needed to maneuver in tight spaces or lock into place on rough terrain or when jogging on the trails.

Ease of Use + Storage

Consider how easily the stroller is to set up and collapse, as well as its storage. Jogging strollers tend to be bulkier, and may have to be stored upright.

Comfort 

For your own comfort, look for adjustable, ergonomic handles and good stroller storage options. For your child’s, you want the seat to have ample padding and recline options, a full-coverage canopy, and a five point harness to keep them secure.

From Questions to Confidence: Jogging with Orbit Baby’s x5 Stroller

Orbit Baby’s X5 Jogging Stroller marries the sturdiness you love in a running stroller with the versatility you’d expect from a more traditional option. With puncture-free, high-tread, all-terrain tires and a smooth suspension system, you’ll have an easy go over even the roughest ground. Adjustable handlebars on the X5 stroller provide the perfect ergonomic fit for parents of all heights. 

But what makes the Orbit Baby X5 a standout is its versatility. With the patented SmartHub technology, you can make use of the existing stroller seat (with or without the included infant insert in a forward or rear-facing position) for running.  

Or, you can sub it out for the infant car seat, toddler car seat, or bassinet to use in a more traditional stroller sense. If you can dream up a seating option, the X5 can probably accommodate it.