Pushing your jogging stroller uphill probably gets more thought than running downhill, but there are a couple important things to consider to run as quickly - and safely - as possible downhill.
How steep is the hill vs how heavy is your stroller? The first hill we go down at the start of our regular route is so steep that I actually walk backwards down it with the jogging stroller.
Generally, however, downhill is a great opportunity to cut a little time and to practice faster turnover (i.e. how quickly you put one foot in front of the other). This is just one of the reasons why jogging strollers have a hand brake and a runaway strap.
Even if it makes your arm get sweaty - ALWAYS USE YOUR RUNAWAY STRAP!
To use your hand brake effectively, you need to lean INTO it. As you squeeze the lever with your left hand, consider using only the palm of your right hand to push rather than gripping the handle which could inadvertently apply a downward force. This keeps the front wheel in contact with the ground (the only way the brake will work) plus it will put less pressure on your knees and keep your form better. You will maintain much more control than either trying to pull the stroller back or simply trying to run as fast as the stroller rolls.
seeMOMMYrun.com is a free service that help moms find other walking or running moms in their areas. The site helps the 'everyday athlete' in all of us stay motivated, set goals, and reach them.
3 comments:
I thought my first half marathon was tough last April but yours is even tougher. I had a lot of hills but you have even more hills and on trails. Good luck. You can do it. Just keep your eye on the prize and try not to think about it too much really. It gets overwhelming just take one it one week at a time and when the race gets here you will be ready! Thanks for commenting on my blog by the way...I am really enjoying the mornings.
Good info!
I've lucked out and haven't had to run hills with the stroller - but now with the move to a hilly town, I'll be using your advice.
Is this on the stroller instructions? It really should be (and if it is, well, yeah, I didn't read it very well).
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