This is the final post in our three-part "Fit Mamas" series.
Becoming a parent means less free time and more scheduling, but it doesn't have to mean less running. Owning a baby jogger means you won't have to wait for your spouse or a sitter in order to get out the door-you can take your child with you on a run whenever you want.
A jogging stroller might seem like extravagance since you already own a regular stroller, but you won't have to deal with the hassle (or possible expense) of arranging for a relative, neighbor, or sitter to watch your child while you get your run in. And while it's nice if you have a treadmill at home or childcare at your gym, having stroller means you get to run *outside*-and it's hard to put a price on getting out of the house to enjoy the outdoors. Plus, going out in the stroller could help calm a fussy kid. Some parents find that their child falls asleep faster when they're moving, like when they're in the car.
Post-baby nutrition advice
Two tips: When shopping, ask to see how the stroller collapses and try picking it up. You want to be able to fold it up and put it in your car with relative ease. A nice feature is a front wheel that swivels or locks in place so you can use the stroller for both running and maneuvering indoors.
To figure out which joggers are worth a spin, we had five parents (and seven kids) test eight jogging strollers. These four standouts will help you share your workouts with your little one, without missing a step.
How to get back on the road after childbirth
Front Runner
The Kelty Speedster Swivel-Deuce ($475) makes running with two kids (and pushing up to the 100-pound maximum) a little less onerous. Testers found the swiveling front wheel-it also locks in fixed position-allowed for easy turns, especially when pushing that much weight. The fabric seats adjust independently and create a barrier that keeps children from bugging each other. kelty.com
Easy Rider
Our testers were impressed with the Baby Jogger F.I.T.'S ($299) ease of use. One pull of a strap in the seat collapses the jogger in half, so it's a breeze to put away when your hands are full. The harness is simple to adjust and attaches via two secure clips. Testers liked how the caliper brakes gave them more control while going downhill. babyjogger.com
Double Play
What makes the Bob Revolution Duallie ($569) outpace other joggers is maneuverability. The front wheel swivels (though you should lock it for running), making the BOB really easy to turn, even around tight neighborhood corners with the weight of two kids. On the run, the BOB's progressive shock system in the rear wheels-similar to a mountain bike's suspension shocks-smoothes out bumpy gravel paths. Testers liked the safety leash and the parking brake that's extremely easy to engage with your foot. bobgear.com
Multipurpose Marvel
You can't get a more versatile stroller than the Chariot Cougar 1 Jogger ($685). It converts into a bike trailer and stroller via optional kits. Compared to other joggers, the Chariot has large rear wheels (20 inches) and a long wheelbase, making it fast on straightaways but a bit difficult to turn. Testers found the over-the-head harness to be the fastest way to get kids in and out. chariotcarriers.com
Get good jogging stroller form
Do you have a jogging stroller? If so, what kind? What's your favorite part of having one?
Susan Rinkunas is an associate editor at Runner's World, a magazine (and website) that informs, advises, and motivates runners of all ages and abilities-and we mean it. Her blog on Yahoo! Shine offers tips on running technique, nutrition and weight loss, shoes and apparel, and balancing fitness and life.
(Photographs by Kent Pell)
More from Runner's World
Run Off 5 Pounds
Core Routine for Time-Pressed Runners
The Best Foods for Runners
Weight-Loss Myths Exposed
