Running Strollers Recommendations

Now that Fall is here (in Central Florida at least, is it, though? I see you mid-80s), what better time to lace up your running shoes and hit the pavement or local trail?

If you’re a new parent or new mom, you may want to return to a favorite pastime with your little one, so that begs the question — which of all the running strollers should you get? You might have already invested in the travel stroller system, crib, nursery setup, breastfeeding, and bottle supplies. Now, do you have more equipment? Aka, more money?!

To find out what moms are using on the pavement and trails, I contacted my local women’s fitness group — Flock Fitness, a community of moms & women who want to be and stay healthy for themselves and their families. They meet early mornings during the day and have evening classes combining HITT and strength training, run training, and they engage in our community here in Central Florida. They offer an entire week free of classes to see if this is the right fit for you!

I also chatted with Rebecca Brown, a local mom of two boys, certified fitness instructor, run coach, and team member of Flock Fitness, to learn more helpful tips for running with a stroller (and kids!). 

“Start easy,” Rebecca advises. “You’re pushing more weight and adding resistance, affecting your running form.” A tip I agree with for all female runners, especially with a stroller, is “to gently lean forwards to engage your glutes just as you would without the stroller,” she says. Your running form doesn’t need to change much. That being said, Rebecca notes, “push running strollers alternating with one arm at a time, but go up hills or make turns with both hands on the handles.”

The Top 2 Running Strollers

Thule Urban Glide

It can be pricey but lightweight and well-built. It offers good customer service on its warranties, parts, and replacements as needed. The single option holds 75 lbs, and the Double option holds 100 lbs (50 lbs per seat). 

Bob (single or double) Jogging Strollers

These are great for local brick streets like Winter Park and College Park while providing a smooth ride for the kids. The single option holds 75 lbs, and the Double options hold 100 lbs (50 lbs per seat). 

Hands-free running strollers option

The KidRunner RUN is the option for you! Fitting a lot like a rickshaw for our daily runs gives the runner a hands-free option for kids up to 50 lbs. Not as many of these pop up on the marketplace or locally used selling sites, so you might have to pay the total price for this option, which can be an investment. They will soon have a multisport option for Run, Ski, and Bike attachment options (which I need to mention is snow ski — not water ski, my Floridians!)

Best Budget Running Strollers

Baby Trend Range Jogging Stroller 

You can find this for under $100 on Amazon, which can hold 50 lbs. 

Here are other things to consider when shopping for a multi-use and/or run stroller. 

Does it have a fixed or non-fixed front wheel?

A wheel that can move is essential when navigating crowds at a local farmers market or theme park or walking on uneven terrain. However, when you’re running or moving fast while pushing weight, having a fixed wheel that does not spin is essential for the safety of you and your passengers when negotiating potholes, uneven terrain, curbs, bricks, and grasses. 

How easily does it fold, and how much does it weigh?

Aka, where will this thing go or be stored? If you’re keeping this stroller in your garage or apartment, ensuring it fits easily in an accessible place is critical to maintaining a good running program. But also, if you’re driving to trails or other spots to jog/run, make sure it’s easily foldable, lightweight for transfer, and takes up the space you have for it before purchasing. 

Can I buy it used?

YES! You might not get the benefits of certain warranties, but if you’re unsure which one to get and a friend has one, ask to try it! Or better yet, ask on your next group run if you could push their stroller (and kids) for a bit. Facebook Marketplace and other local community groups often have several options — that might go fast! — when you search for them. This could be the cheapest option if you’re not particular about a specific color. 

For beginner joggers/runners or those just looking to get more steps in throughout the day, your basic utility stroller should be fine! Many ‘routine’ strollers have wheels that can be fixed or stay mobile depending on your terrain. Either way, don’t let your gear dictate if you can start a couch-to-5k program! If it’s a personal goal, go after it! Get moving, Be happy, Stay Healthy!