Since jogging strollers were developed in 1983, their popularity among parents has increased dramatically.

Today, jogging strollers come in a variety of shapes and sizes to match almost anyone’s needs, including parents with twins or children with physical disabilities.

“Jogging strollers are great for parents and children,” says Patti Rhynders, manager of injury prevention education and outreach at Children’s Medical Center of Dallas. “Parents benefit from a healthy lifestyle, and children learn early in life that exercise is a good thing.”

The American College of Sports Medicine emphasizes the importance of using a jogging stroller safely. Parents should remember these safety tips:

• Use the parking brake when helping a child into and out of the stroller.
  
• Use the stroller only for walking or jogging, and not with in-line skates.
  
• Use a wide, gentle arc when turning.
  
• Remind older children not to put their hands and feet near the wheels or spokes.

Be mindful of your child’s comfort, too. Your temperature will rise during exercise, but your child’s temperature will stay the same or may even fall when facing into the wind. Dress your child appropriately and attach a light blanket or towel to the canopy to protect your child. In warm weather, be sure to provide fluids.

“Children should wear helmets if the parent is jogging with the stroller. Helmets are available for children ages 1 year and older, and should be certified by CPSC,” Rhynders advises. “Parents should select a well-constructed, light-weight stroller for better stability and control,” says Rhynders. She also recommends choosing a stroller with sealed bearings, which roll smoother and make turning easier. All jogging strollers should be equipped with standard safety features, such as a deep seat with a seat belt, a locking brake and a safety wrist strap. Use the wrist strap to stay connected to the stroller. Prices for a single stroller range from $99 to $250. Double strollers and those with special equipment are priced higher. Rhynders encourages families to develop a network to let others know when they are done using their strollers, so parents can purchase used strollers at a reasonable price.