Looking for an activity that mum and bubba can enjoy? Multi-terrain trail walking boasts benefits for all the family. Head off the beaten track with our expert buggy strolling advice, courtesy of iCandy.
It’s easy to shrug off strolling as being too gentle to boast any real fitness rewards, but regular trail walking is a great addition to any exercise plan. Walking for just 30 minutes a day could up cardiovascular fitness, strengthen bones, increase muscle power and boost endurance – and just 10 minutes is enough to lift your spirits.
The best bit is that it doesn’t have to stop when a baby arrives. Want to up the benefits? Shun the pavements for more undulating paths and you’ll not only burn extra energy with every footstep, but also work your core and leg muscles super hard. All the while, little ones reap the rewards of being outside – better mood, improved co-ordination, balance and stamina, plus the opportunity to build relationships and adapt to challenges such as toddling through muddy puddles. The benefits are big, but you’ll need a fit-for-purpose buggy and our top tips to all-terrain trail walking before you set off!
1. Get the gear
Is your buggy up to the job? For off-road jaunts, you’ll need grippy wheels, good suspension and a lightweight but sturdy design. ‘The right wheels will go over grass, roots, stones and very uneven surfaces,’ says personal trainer and mum-of-three Sarah Campus, founder of LDN Mums Fitness (ldnmumsfitness.com). ‘Make sure it has good brakes for down hills, plus isn’t too heavy should you need to lift it [up steps, over logs or rocks].’ The new iCandy Peach 7 All-Terrain Bundle (£1,648, icandyworld.com) has been built to conquer all off-road terrain and comes with a bundle of handy kit such as the All-Terrain Changing Bag.
2. Be prepared
Failing to prepare is preparing to fail – and this is certainly true of outdoor adventures with toddlers. Don’t risk being caught short without a nappy, and pack snacks to keep energy high. ‘Check the forecast,’ adds Campus. ‘You might need to pack the buggy raincover. Is it going to be extra sloppy and will the wheels you’re using have enough grip? If it’s going to be sunny, you might need a sun shade, suncream and sun hat.’ Made-to-fit weatherproof additions such as iCandy’s Black Parasol are very secure and wobble-free on bumpy, undulating terrain.
3. Map your route
Don’t hit the trails without knowing where you’re going! ‘Take the time to plan your route carefully to find a safe, secure and sign-posted course that is suitable for all abilities and, of course, a buggy,’ advises Campus. ‘Include stops, such as parks or somewhere to have a snack and a stretch.’ Start with a manageable local route to see how baby and buggy get on, then you can go further afield as your experience and confidence grows. If you don’t know where to go, get inspired by iCandy’s list of 20 pram-friendly UK walks, as collated from the top 100 most reviewed ones on AllTrails (visit alltrails.com).
4. Take your time
A route that takes 30 minutes to walk alone could take hours with a little one, so allow ample time. ‘Babies can become restless if confined for too long, so schedule regular pauses to let your little one stretch, explore and enjoy the surroundings,’ says Campus. ‘These breaks also provide an opportunity for feeding or changing nappies, and for you to rest and refuel, because pushing a baby on a hike is no easy task!’
Trail running tips for beginners
5. Have fun!
Above all else, enjoy the time you spend together among nature. ‘Turn it into adventure,’ raves Campus. ‘Talk about what you see and hear; chat about the sights, sounds and smells of nature. Little ones’ wonder and curiosity can make even the simplest hike an extraordinary experience!’
‘The right buggy makes all the difference!’
Women’s Fitness editor-in-chief Sarah Sellens says comfort, good grip and weatherproof fabrics are a must-have for trail strollers:
‘With three children and a penchant for outdoor activity, I’ve tried more multi-terrain buggies than I can remember. And while I love a backpack, I’ll opt for four wheels and extra storage over the weight on my shoulders every time.
‘From ploughed fields to sandy beaches, up hills and down forest tracks, I’ve tackled every type of terrain. And the one thing I’ve learnt is that comfort reigns supreme. Fortunately, that’s something the iCandy Peach 7 All-Terrain buggy has in spades. Sleek, luxe and practical, with rear-wheel suspension for the ultimate in comfort over logs, rocks and big puddles, it will take bubba from birth (with carrycot) to 25kg. And if you’re already an iCandy owner, it comes with car seat adaptors that attach to an iCandy Cocoon Car Seat – something you’ll love if you’re moving from car to park path!
‘My one-year-old was a keen tester of the pushchair, which has the most cosy and cushioned seat I’ve come across (although I can vouch that the fleece-lined carrycot looks super snug, too). It was almost impossible for her to resist snoozing, and many lengthy naps ensued thanks to the recline-to-flat function – one of four positions, with the upright stance being a favourite for having a look around! The water-repellent and UPF 50+ canopy swished away more water than expected, but the raincover is easy to fit should you get caught in a downpour. Choose from three wheels at a super lightweight 9.4kg for great manoeuvrability, or stick with four wheels for daily adventures. I’ve pushed this along the blustery beach, around heritage walks, plus across park paths and fields – it coped with it all!’
