Over the last three years my youngest daughter Gabby and I have enjoyed the wonder that is a running stroller.  Our runs together are a time when we get to share sights and sounds, talk, laugh and make memories.  What I did not anticipate is that our runs to and from the park have turned into an excellent total body workout for me.

Between the running, pushing a forty pound child up hills and holding the stroller on the down hills I get home completely pumped and looking forward to another run together.  Here's some tips to help you and your little one enjoy your time on the road together.

Assure that your baby is old enough - it's not safe if the baby is under six month old in a jogging stroller, except for the stroller that contains a car seat adapter. With a jogging stroller that has car seat, the head and the neck of the baby will be steady preventing your baby from bouncing too much.

Locking the front wheel - various jogging strollers consist of a front wheel that is not fixed. When you run with a stroller, it is best for safety if you lock the front wheel in place. This will help prevent the stroller from rotating unexpectedly which could cause you to lose control.

Pack sensibly - most jogging strollers have a container under and other holders. Never forget the diapers, water for both of you, wipes, snacks and a toy for your child to be entertained.  Gabby has an MP3 player with lots of songs from her favorite movies.

Protect your child for harmful elements - bear I mind that when you run, you will feel warm but your child may not. Cover your baby during the cooler weather, if it's cold or windy, you may consider using a weather shield made for the stroller. During the warm season, do not over dress your child and protect her/him with stroller's sun visor along with the sunscreen.

Strap the child with the full harness - Most strollers come with a four point harness designed to protect your child from getting shaken or falling out of the stroller.

Never lose contact with the stroller - the stroller is designed to roll freely so make sure that you use the wrist strap which is designed to keep the stroller and your child from getting away from you in case of a fall or trip.  By the way, the break on the stroller can be use effectively if you choose to go rollerblading.  I've used it and it works well.

Give your child some payoff - try to construct your runs so that somewhere in the middle your child has a chance to get out and stretch his or her legs.  In my runs with my daughter we always stop at a beautiful playground or park so she can play and then stop close to home for a "Treat".  This is my way of saying "Thank you" for keeping me company.  The picture on the right is from this years Run for the Red 5K.