02/05/2025
As a physiotherapist managing two clinics, working within the NHS, and navigating life with our beautifully chaotic toddler, finding time to stay active has not been easy.
So, I suggested we get a running pram - not just to stay active, but to add another way to enjoy time together as a family. Since then, we have all been loving our runs (especially our toddler)
But here’s what I’ve noticed as a Physiotherapist:
✅ Posture - On our first few runs with the pram, I noticed we were leaning forward more than we should and rounding our shoulders (an easy habit to fall into when pushing a pram!). This aggravated an old shoulder issue I’ve had. To avoid aggravating it further and correct the issue i had to adjust my position by pulling my shoulders back and keeping a more upright stance. This small change has improved my discomfort noticeably.
✅ Muscle weakness - when you are holding onto the pram with both hands, you rotate less through the upper body. This means you have to stabilise more through the hips. Both of us experienced some discomfort in the glutes and outside of the hips. To fix this, use one hand so you still rotate through your upper body.
✅ Strength and stability - running with a pram is surprisingly challenging, especially for the lower body. Your calves and hamstrings have to work harder to push the extra weight forwards, strengthening these up will help with pushing the pram effectively, enhances joint stability, improved control and endurance and most importantly reduces the risk of overloading injuries.
✅ Take it slow, ease into running with a pram and gradually build up distance..This will help to reduce injuries!
✅ Have fun! Most importantly have fun with it. This should be a rewarding experience that not only supports your own wellbeing but also sets a great example of an active lifestyle for your baby.
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