Features to Look For in a Running Pushchair

Unlike traditional strollers, running pushchairs have large wheels that let them roll smoothly at running speeds over uneven sidewalks and roads. These strollers have adjustable suspension to make the ride more comfortable for your child.

Before you start jogging, strengthen your core, leg, and arm strength. Once you're prepared, follow our tips to jogging using strollers and select the stroller that best suits your requirements.

Adjustable Handlebar

Adjustable handlebars help you find the right position to run with the stroller. It is essential to run with a high posture and avoid slouching. A good hand position is also vital to avoid arm and wrist pain. A handlebar that is too low causes you to put a lot of weight onto the front wheels and can cause instability and brake issues. A handlebar that is too low forces you to bend your hips forward which can result in back discomfort and poor posture.

Typically the handlebars can be elevated or lowered using simple bolts on the headset and frame. You should refer to the owner's guide for specific instructions. The exact bolts used vary from model to model. You can also alter the angle of your handlebars by adjusting the bolt on your headset that is used to clamp the stem. However, this is difficult and requires you to adjust the bike when it's placed on the stand.

To adjust the height of the handlebars you need to loosen the stem clamp bolts (also called top-cap bolts), a quarter turn at one time, until you reach the desired position. The tightening of the bolts must be done with care because excessive tightening could damage headset bearings. If your handlebars are stiff after you adjust the height the headset bearings might require servicing or replaced.

If you're not sure of the size stem you'll need to use, ask your local bike shop for advice or ask someone else to measure the steerer. Do not guess. You may end up with an uncomfortably long stem or damaged. It is possible, albeit not very elegant, to shim your stem with thin stock, but if you force an aluminum stem into an unnatural shape, which it wasn't intended to be, it will wear out and break.

The size of a stem isn't always clear, particularly on stems made of modern materials with different "rise" angles. The reach of a standard "7" stem is typically described in a simple way, but other types indicate the reach on an axis that is different from the rise axis, which can be confusing.

Front Wheels Swivel

The front swivel of the running pushchair is a fantastic feature for urban and suburban environments where it's easy to maneuver your stroller through stores, sidewalks and other locations in which you could use the pushchair. It's easier to do quick turns and avoid obstacles such as potholes or rocks, while still giving the control of a fixed-wheel stroller.

However, if you don't intend to use your running pushchair for more than occasional jogging or casual strolls on pavements the swivel wheel could be a unnecessary expense. A fixed front wheel is much more stable and offers the added benefit of keeping your eyes focused forward instead of looking down at your baby.

This is one of the most impressive features of this top-rated running pushchair. It has a smart system that lets you quickly and easily switch the steering of the front wheel from locked straight ahead for running and swiveled for everyday use. No more reaching underneath or fiddling with a lever or latch to change the front wheel position - you simply press a top-mounted switch and you're good to go!

This type of front swivel lock is usually engaged when the product is first being used. It assists new users to learn how to steer the product without worrying about it steering. The lock on the wheel is removed once the user has become comfortable with the new pushchair. Swivel wheels will then provide the user with greater flexibility and agility. This is especially useful for parents who wish to swiftly and easily maneuver their stroller when running or engaging in other activities with their child.

Parking Brake

A sturdy and reliable parking brake is another important feature to look for in the running buggy. Certain models require you to use two pedals in order to engage the brakes. Other models have spring-loaded brakes that are easy to engage and disengage using just one foot. The parking brake should be engaged with a firm force even when the running pushchairs are not in use. Other safety features to consider include a front wheel that is locked as well as suspension and an effective wrist strap for your hand.