Why does the front wheel of my jogging stroller shimmy while I run? This is a question often asked by both experienced and new stroller runners. As a disclaimer, most jogging stroller companies suggest locking the front wheel of a jogging stroller when running for safety purposes; however, we all have our personal preferences. There are a few points to consider when running with a stroller that will help prevent the front wheel from wobbling.
1). Pressure
The handlebar of the jogging stroller is not meant to offer support to the upper body while running. On many occasions, I see stroller runners gripping the handle of the jogging stroller with both hands and slightly pressing down. Even the slightest application of pressure will lift the stroller’s front wheel off the ground and cause the front wheel to shake— this could cause the stroller to either tip, or it might force the runner to come to a complete stop to fix the wheel. Every runner runs differently, especially when pushing a stroller; I personally prefer placing one hand on the stroller handle, using the other hand as a directional guide, and utilizing my body’s force and momentum to generate forward movement.
2). Hardware
Always check the hardware of the stroller for loose screws or parts. Sometimes the culprit of a rickety front wheel is a loose screw. During a past Stroller Warriors workout, one member had a shaky front wheel that eventually fell off mid-run! The quick-release lever attaching the front wheel to the stroller was open and unlocked. Many of us load our stroller in and out of the car for workouts as we are often distracted by kids or setting-up quickly to start the run on time— however, taking a few seconds to check the wheels can prevent a stroller accident caused by loose or faulty hardware.
1). Pressure
The handlebar of the jogging stroller is not meant to offer support to the upper body while running. On many occasions, I see stroller runners gripping the handle of the jogging stroller with both hands and slightly pressing down. Even the slightest application of pressure will lift the stroller’s front wheel off the ground and cause the front wheel to shake— this could cause the stroller to either tip, or it might force the runner to come to a complete stop to fix the wheel. Every runner runs differently, especially when pushing a stroller; I personally prefer placing one hand on the stroller handle, using the other hand as a directional guide, and utilizing my body’s force and momentum to generate forward movement.
2). Hardware
Always check the hardware of the stroller for loose screws or parts. Sometimes the culprit of a rickety front wheel is a loose screw. During a past Stroller Warriors workout, one member had a shaky front wheel that eventually fell off mid-run! The quick-release lever attaching the front wheel to the stroller was open and unlocked. Many of us load our stroller in and out of the car for workouts as we are often distracted by kids or setting-up quickly to start the run on time— however, taking a few seconds to check the wheels can prevent a stroller accident caused by loose or faulty hardware.
Quick release lever on the front wheel of the BOB stroller. Make sure the lever is in the closed position.
3). Rocky course
Trail running is my favorite type of running and I love taking my jogging stroller off-road! When running on a trail, even with gravel, it is best to lock the wheel for more stability and to prevent swiveling caused by a rock, tiny pothole, or when catching a branch in the wheel.
Hopefully, the above tips will aid with smoother stroller running!
Happy Running,
Rose
Trail running is my favorite type of running and I love taking my jogging stroller off-road! When running on a trail, even with gravel, it is best to lock the wheel for more stability and to prevent swiveling caused by a rock, tiny pothole, or when catching a branch in the wheel.
Hopefully, the above tips will aid with smoother stroller running!
Happy Running,
Rose
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