5 Tips for Jogging with a Toddler

Although in the past I have self-professed to “hate” running, it’s grown on me (can’t believe I just typed that). There’s something relaxing and freeing about not only hitting the path, but doing so with your child. I’m teaching Baby J from an early age that not only is it good to be active, it’s fun!

Over the last six months, I’ve packed Baby J up several times a week -rain, snow/ice, or shine- and headed outside to jog. Some days we push for ten miles, other days we barely reach two. It’s been a journey, but I’m proud that I’ve stuck with it and improved.

If you’re thinking about taking up jogging with your toddler, I’d like to share with you my top tips garnered from our experiences.

First, something to keep in mind- although many jogging stroller brands sell attachments allowing you to use the stroller with certain infant car seats, your little one may not be ready physically for your jogging until six months or older. Babies must have sufficient neck control, so before jogging with your baby, always check with your little one’s pediatrician.

1. Invest in a quality jogging stroller.

Your jogging experience will be less than enjoyable if you’re fighting with the stroller the entire time, or if your toddler is fussing while being jarred from a poor suspension and bumpy ride. Go to a local running or sporting goods store and take a look at jogging strollers in person.

Currently, I own, use, and love the single BOB Ironman, but the BOB Revolution SE Duallie with its swivel lock wheel is a top contender for when we eventually need a double jogging stroller.

If you’re not sure where to start looking for a jogging stroller, I came across a great article from Baby Gear Lab. They tested ten of the most popular jogging strollers and ranked them according to their findings.

Once you’ve decided which stroller you want, you may be able to find it in stock in a local store, or you can always order online from Amazon or PishPoshBaby. Many sites will have sales or release coupon codes you can put towards your purchase; just keep your eyes open.

The other option is to purchase your stroller used through a service like Craigslist. That’s what we did! It’s a great way to save on a quality stroller. Just make sure you check the stroller out thoroughly before money changes hands.

2. Plan the logistics: route, weather, and time of day.

The logistics will most likely depend on the individual child, and it may take a few times to figure out what works for you and your toddler.

Think about what route you’re taking. What is the path like? Will you be on the road at any point; is there a danger from vehicles? If your little one is potty trained, then even something like a restroom needs to be considered ahead of time. I prefer to jog on a circular path at a local park. I know that every lap I pass a water fountain and a restroom with a baby change table inside.

Check the weather ahead of time. Should you bring rain gear, sunblock, blankets, jackets, or stroller covers? My rule is to take more than I think I need. Invariably, if I pack light, I always need something I didn’t bring that one time.

Time of day matters too, for more than one reason. Obviously it’s usually warmer in the afternoon. If it’s winter, you may want to postpone your morning jog until the afternoon. Then again, if it’s windier later in the day, earlier may be better.

Also consider when your child naps. If I’m planning a long jog, I prefer to jog during nap time, as I know my son will sleep soundly in his stroller the entire time.

3. Dress your child appropriately.

I touched upon this above, but make sure your toddler is going to be comfortable, no matter the weather and route. It’s always windy at the park and even windier at the beach boardwalk, so that’s something I have to keep in mind when dressing my toddler. I might get warmed up during a run from my rising body heat, but my son won’t. He will get plenty of wind in his face, so I bring a hat and mittens for him when it’s below 60 degrees.

I recommend dressing your toddler in layers. You can always take clothing off if he or she gets too warm. In freezing temps, I’ve been known to bundle Baby J in a snowsuit, even without snow on the ground. If he sleeps, I know he’s comfy!

4. Pack food and diversions.

Always pack a snack and drink for your toddler. You never know when he or she may suddenly decide they’re having a growth spurt and are hungry NOW. Or maybe you’ll have an amazing run and decide to jog longer than planned.

Depending on your child, toys may also be a must. Baby J is usually happy now just watching the other joggers and doggies go by. But for a few weeks last fall, he went through a stage where he had to have several stuffed toy animals with him at all times. If this is your case, just keep an eye out for fallen toys. A stroller cover or toy leash may come in handy.

5. Be realistic.

It takes a while to get used to jogging with a stroller. Your form will be different (don’t lean into the stroller and make sure to alternate your arms). You’ll be slower…especially on windy days. Over time, you will get faster, but don’t expect to reach a personal record when you first start pushing your toddler around.

Also, some days your little one may be happy and thrilled with the entire experience. Other days, you may have to pack it up early and head home to keep your sanity.

6. Take care of yourself.

Okay, I said five tips, and here’s a sixth! But I think it’s important to remember that your toddler can be happy and comfortable, and if you’re not, the run is going to be miserable. Make sure YOU have snacks and water and dress appropriately.

It may take you and your toddler a few times to find your groove, but stick with it. Jogging with your little one can be not only a relaxing and fun time, but also a way to bond and develop healthy fitness habits as a family.

Have you ever jogged with your toddler? What tips do you have? If not, would you be interested in giving it a try? What are some ways you and your family stay active together?

Opinions Expressed Pink Button

Continue Reading

Fitness Friday: 1/24/13

fitnessfridaywehaveitall3 buttonGiveaways you may be interested in! I have an open giveaway (until the 27th) for a bottle of Amacari from the South American superfruit camu camu. I’m also hosting a giveaway for an Armpocket– The Ultimate Armband (ends on the 29th). Finally, I’m participating in a group giveaway for a Bowflex fitness tracker (ends on the 30th).

 

I totally forgot about today being Fitness Friday until I saw some other bloggers posting! So here’s a quick update of my week.

Diet:  (BTW, when I say “diet,” I’m using the original definition. It’s what I eat on a regular basis, my lifestyle. I’m not following any strict, crazy food regime.)

Overall, I stayed within my calorie limit, and ate mostly healthy foods. I went to see a movie on Tuesday with a friend sans children. I decided that obviously Tuesday would be my “cheat” day, so I could partake in theater popcorn, mmmmmmmmm. Then the next day, I had trouble reigning things in. I do feel that’s a problem for me. If I eat a ton of food one day, the next day I’m really hungry if I don’t do the same.

So next week, my diet goal would be to have better self control. I also didn’t feel that I had enough veggies this week. In addition, I probably need to eat more protein, as I’m trying to build muscle.

Stats:

I’m still holding around 152 lbs., which is fine. The weight on the scale could go up or down, as I build muscle. I didn’t take my measurements. I’ll do that once a month. My goal is still to build more muscle.

Exercise:

It was tough getting good workouts in this week and runs, because it’s been so cold. We actually had snow this week for the first time all winter. I think last winter we had maybe 1/2″ one day that melted immediately? It snowed here Tuesday through Wednesday, and it’s still on the ground, along with ice. So running outside hasn’t been an option. I don’t have shoes for that. Also, I think Baby J would need a face mask, because of the wind.

Monday– What’s crazy is the day before the snow- it was in the 60s! That day I did a total of 7.2 miles outside. I jogged/ran about 5 or 6 miles of that, and walked the rest.

Tuesday– Once I decided to go to a movie, I’d decided to forego my workout, since it was now my “cheat day.” NO WORKOUT

Wednesday– I’d planned to go a nearby naval station gym. They have a family workout room, where your kids can play behind a gated area, while you use machines and weights nearby. Well, they were closed all day because of 2″ of snow. -_- Seriously. I drove up there and everything. NO WORKOUT

Thursday– I finally made it to the base gym. Did a little over two miles on the treadmill and another two on an exercise bike. I’d planned to run a lot further, but man…running indoors is tough! Very boring.

Friday– Met a friend at her gym this morning. We did a variety of calisthenics and weight training exercises for about an hour, and then did some cardio for 20 minutes. That was my YMCA freebie, so I probably won’t be working out there again, but my friend showed me some exercises I can do at home and at the base gym.

So to recap- I exercised Monday, Thursday, and Friday. I have yet to meet my 4-day workout goal, but I’m planning on heading up to the base gym tomorrow morning. I’ll be sore after today, but I need to at least walk on the treadmill or do 30 minutes on the elliptical.

Next week, the weather is going to be cool still, but a little less cold (30s instead of 20s). Monday is supposed to be in the 50s, so I’m going to take advantage of that. Monday I need to do a long run outside. The half marathon is coming up soon. My other fitness goals for next week would be to do more strength training than I did this week (do at least 2 days).

Fitness Friday Jill Conyers button

So I did okay. Not awesome, but okay. How about you?

Did you meet your goals this week? What are your goals for next week?
Continue Reading

Giveaway: Armpocket The Ultimate Armband, Jan. 15-29 #MamasNewLook

MamasNewLook2014 Button

We just rang in 2014 and with a New Year comes the chance to develop a new YOU! Welcome to the 2nd annual Mama’s Got a New Look Giveaway Hop Event. The Blogging Mamas Network, along with co-hosts Mama’s Baby Cupcakes, So Easy Being Green, and Viva Veltoro want to give the special, deserving mamas a chance at a New Look for the New Year!

This event will run from January 15-29 and each blogger in the hop has a great prize, worth at least $25, to help you achieve that new look!

After you enter the giveaway here on My Life: A Work in Progress, keep scrolling down to learn about the grand prize (2 winners!). And, at the very, very bottom of this post, you’ll find a list of blogs participating in the event. You can use this list to “hop” around from blog to blog, entering more awesome giveaways!

Armpocket Ultimate Armband Giveaway

Win the Armpocket model, size, and color of your choice on My Life: A Work in Progress

Thank you to Armpocket.com for this awesome giveaway!

Designed by runners, the Armpocket is The Ultimate Armband. The makers of Armpocket understand that not all phones are one-size and neither are you! There are several Armpocket models available to fit your phone model or devices up to 6″ long (with or without a case). Not only that, measure your arm then choose the strap size that fits your arm.

The no-slip memory foam contours to the shape of your arm, making the Armpocket comfortable to wear. The fabric is breathable and moisture wicking. It’s even water resistant, designed to keep your electronics safe.

Each Armpocket model is also large enough to carry small items in addition to your phone like a single key, lip balm, etc. Several models can hold multiple items. My Armpocket model i-25 can hold my phone in its Lifeproof case, my entire set of keys, lip balm, and face blotting sheets!

It’s perfect for busy mothers, making it easier to go from the gym or running trail to the grocery store and home again. See the full review HERE.

One winner will receive the Armpocket of her choice (ARV $29.95 to $39.95)! If you agree to the terms and conditions listed directly below, scroll on down and enter via the Giveaway Tools widget.

Terms & Conditions: Sweepstakes open to residents of the US. Must be 18 years or older. Void where prohibited by law. Two entrants allowed per household. Odds of winning depend on total number of eligible entries received. Once winner has been selected and emailed, winner will have 48 hours to respond or new winner will be selected. Winner’s name may be posted on this blog and other social media and Web sites. My Life: A Work in Progress (MLAWP) is not responsible for prize fulfillment. Sweepstakes not associated with Facebook or any other social media platform. Entrance into the sweepstakes indicates acceptance of these terms and conditions.

 

Grand Prize

This wonderful Grand Prize has two packages up for grabs. The first prize pack, Fashion Mama, features a whole Gel Nail Kit from Couture Gel Nail Polish, a $100 Gift Code to the online jewelry retailer The Vintage Pearl, and a crocheted Infinity Scarf in winner’s choice of color from Treasured by Holly.   Our second prize pack, New Mama, features a breastfeeding camisole from Undercover Mama, a Chewbeads “Jane” necklace in winner’s choice of color, winner’s choice of fabric for a diapers/wipes carrying case from The Diaper Clutch, Bamboobies set of Multi Pack Pads, and winner’s choice of item shown from Loving Moments by Leading Lady and their Maternity to Nursing line.

Note- My Life: A Work in Progress received a complimentary Armpocket for review purposes but was not compensated for this post.

Opinions Expressed Pink Button

Continue Reading