Running with a stroller question

Do you feel like running with a stroller takes some impact off your body?

I am not supposed to run because I had back surgery and my dr hates running and what it does to your body.

But I miss it soooo much. I ran a short distance pushing my stroller and I felt like it I wasn't pounding as hard on my feet?? Is it in my mind?

Re: Running with a stroller question

It is a different feeling for sure, but if anything, I find it more of an upper body workout, which I like as a change. I'm not sure I'd say it is less impact, but it definitely feels different, so for some people, that feeling might be less impact. It is a tough workout because in addition to moving your feet, you're pushing weight. I have a double and single jogger, so when I use the double, I definitely feel the weight. I know julz on here uses a triple, so I guess I can't brag too much :) I can see why you might feel it's less impact - when you think about it, the jogger is somewhat forcing you along if that makes sense.

My suggestion is if you are going to try it, just do a very short distance and then wait at least one day of no running to see how it feels. I can't stand when drs say no running merely because they hate it themselves. You just want to make sure you're not in pain.

Re: Running with a stroller question

like OP said its different.. I like to swing my arms so my legs work harder to keep up (odd I know) its all about balance for me.

How about a fast pace walk? anything is better then nothing. If your Dr says not to put so much stress on your back I wldnt push it. Fast walking will get your heart rate going!!

Re: Running with a stroller question

thanks girls...just trying to decide if I want to invest in a double jogger, right now I have the city mini. i guess ill try a few short run/walks alone to see if its worth buying
thanks again!

Re: Running with a stroller question

much harder!!

imagine running without moving your arms. much rougher on the legs!

and your arms will get a good workout too.

I run a lot slower with the stroller (whether its the single, double, especially triple) and really dont go more than 3 miles with the stroller. I will tell you this - if you get used to running with a stroller, when yourun without the stroller you will be so much faster and go so much longer.

Re: Running with a stroller question

Running with a stroller is actually more harmful

You are unable to keep your natural form so you really would just be setting yourself up for injury.

Did the doctor give you back strengthening exercises? I agree that brisk walking may be your better choice.

Good luck!

Re: Running with a stroller question

I can't see it being less impact. I only really hold onto the handle when going up an incline or descending a decline. If I am flat, I will push it ahead of me and catch up. But like Julz said, you go slower and I don't really run more than 5 miles (with a double - not a triple like julz )

just FYI - the city mini is NOT a jogging stroller. A good jogger will make a difference though. I would rather take my BOB duallie with 115 pounds of kids than my baby trend single with 55 pound kid.

Re: Running with a stroller question

Re: Running with a stroller question

Thanks! I guess my best bet is to try running alone a few times and see how I do with my back and if all is good then invest in a jogger. I know I can't run with my city mini