Advice: Running with baby in tow

[Kharen]

Hi! I am trying to restart the Couch to 5K program, which I completed about 3 years ago. It was an amazing accomplishment to run a 5K and to lose 60 pounds in the process. But after a very stressful life event and a pregnancy, I am back up about 40 pounds, and I am desperate to run again. I know it's the way back to a healthier me. Problem is: I am intimidated by starting the Couch to 5K again with my son in tow in a jogging stroller this time. Running used to be a very solitary activity for me--and I liked it that way.

What have your experiences been running with your babies in a jogging stroller? Have they tolerated it well?

Thanks!
Karen

[HomeBirthMommy]

My dd loves going on runs with me! She has routes she prefers even. She doesn't care for the nature trail type runs. I think she gets bored. She loves running on sidewalks near house, cars, people. She like to look at everything. Now that she can talk, she encourages me when I slow down. "Run, Mommy, Run!"

I would recommend you try out different strollers and find out what features are most important/comfortable to you. You can do this at consignment sales this time of year. When you run, try and hold on with one hand while you keep your other arm in the regular running position. Switch arms regularly so you don't get sore.

The best part of running with the jogger is that when you do get a chance to run alone, you'll fly and feel so much lighter.

[kate~mom]

I am just reaching the tail end of running with my son in the jogging stroller. he's almost 3 1/2 and we've been running together for three years. we started when he was six month old, just after i ran my first 5K.

he loved it - now, he just wants to get out an run himself, so i think we're almost done together.

advice - FOOD! special toys, attached with those plastic links to the stroller, etc. when he gets older, always end with a fun destination - the park, etc.