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:: Perfect pushing posture
by Jennifer Murray

Strollers are a part of parenthood. We use them at the mall, the park, the airport, everywhere. After a few hours of lifting the stroller in and out of the car and pushing the stroller, many moms experience lower back pain, tendonitis in the elbows, and even carpal tunnel syndrome. Because strollers are so convenient to use in our busy lives, it is essential to use perfect pushing posture to prevent various aches and pains.

Here are some things to keep in mind while pushing your stroller:

  • Keep your shoulders relaxed and down.
  • Your chest should be lifted.
  • Pull in your abdominals. Imagine pulling your button in to your spine. If you have recently given birth, then your abdominals are already weak. Keeping your abs pulled in is the one of the best ways to prevent lower back aches.
  • Keep your hips square to the stroller. Most moms favor one side of their bodies for carrying the baby, the diaper bag, etc. Your body will eventually grow stronger on the more frequently used side, creating a muscular imbalance. Remember to use the less favored side by alternating the heavy loads that you carry.
  • Point both the knees and the toes straight ahead.
  • Many moms suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome. Be sure to keep your hands relaxed and your wrists straight. It is very easy to bend your wrists on the handlebar, resulting in tendonitis of the wrists and elbows. Also, keep your grip soft on the handlebar.
  • Lift your chin and keep your neck straight. This helps to create a neutral spine, which is necessary for good posture.

Be especially aware of your posture when pushing an umbrella stroller since the handles are typically lower, and we tend to hunch over while pushing them. These guidelines apply to both leisure strolls at the mall and to running at the track. Good posture is essential for all moms since we do so much lifting, bending, catching, reaching, and so on. Your body will be grateful for the effort.

Happy strolling, Jenn.


 Jennifer is the mother of two daughters, Morgan (6) and Molly (3). She is a personal trainer and a pre/postnatal fitness instructor. You can reach Jennifer at jmurray@optimomfitness.com