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Running / Jogging Blog

By Christine Luff, About.com Guide to Running / Jogging

Can I Run a Race With My Jogging Stroller?

Saturday July 11, 2009
I'm a huge fan of jogging strollers, but when a running mom recently asked about running a race with her jogging stroller, I had to tell her it was a bad idea. I know race directors will agree with me and totally appreciate this PSA because they sometimes have a tough time enforcing jogging stroller bans in their races.

What's wrong with jogging strollers in races? Well, if you've ever run in a crowded race, you know how tough and exhausting it can be to try to maneuver around runners. When someone is pushing a stroller, it's even harder to work your way around them, and it's not fair to other runners to make them have to slow down.

It can also be unsafe for someone pushing a jogging stroller to try to move around other runners. Because most jogging strollers have a stationary front wheel, they can be difficult and awkward to turn. When trying to maneuver them in tight spaces, it's easy to clip someone or unknowingly cut someone off and cause a fall. It's also much harder to stop quickly when you're pushing a jogging stroller, so you run the risk of hitting into someone if they suddenly stop short in front of you.

Make it easier on yourself and run races stroller-free -- you'll definitely run faster. And if you really want to do a race with your little one, look for a walking event that is stroller-friendly.

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Comments
July 13, 2009 at 10:20 am
(1) Christie says:

Thank you for posting this! I have run several “stroller friendly” races and each one states that all strollers should start at the back of the pack. It’s very clear that this is for the safety of all runners, but there are always those who start right up front with their stroller and get in everyone’s way. My opinion…keep the babies at home!!

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