Top Tips for Running with Jogging Stroller

Top Tips for Running with Jogging Stroller

It can be difficult keeping up with your running schedule when your baby arrives. If you like to run, a jogging stroller may be the answer. It will give you the freedom to continue with your running, without the need to arrange a babysitter. Making your baby or toddler part of your workout, can be fun for both of you and will help to strengthen your bond. It will also expose your child to a healthy lifestyle at a young age.

Follow our top tips to ensure your stroller jogging is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable.

1. Baby’s Age

If you intend to go jogging with a newborn baby, you will need to ensure your stroller can recline fully. A newborn has little head control as the neck muscles are not yet fully developed. Newborns are unable to hold themselves in an upright position. An upright jogging stroller could, therefore, cause injury.

Jogging strollers that remain in an upright position carry a manufacturer’s guide age of around six to eight months. However, this will depend on your child’s development and will differ from child to child. If you are unsure, check with your pediatrician.

2. Safety First

Never be tempted to go jogging with a standard stroller. They are not built with this in mind. The wheels are not designed for faster speeds, and they could easily tip. Jogging with a stroller requires a smooth and stable ride. Using a regular stroller for this purpose could cause injury to you and your child.

The safety of you and your child is of the utmost importance. When purchasing your jogging stroller, ensure that it is JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association) certified. This will ensure that it meets the highest quality and safety standards.

Other things to check for are:​

• A fixed or lockable front wheel
• A 5-point safety harness
• Well-inflated tyres
• Effective shock absorbers which will ensure a smooth ride
• Handbrakes
• Weather canopy
• Adjustable handle if you and your partner are different heights
• Basket/compartments for storage
• The ability to fold it away for storage
• Back Wheel Lock

A jogging stroller differs from standard strollers in several ways. Some strollers have a fixed front wheel and others allow you to lock the wheel into position when needed. This feature will prevent the stroller from swivelling suddenly and causing you to fall.

If you intend to use the stroller for other purposes, as well as jogging, it is useful to be able to control the front wheel. While a fixed position is essential for running, a swivel wheel is more comfortable when walking. It makes it much easier to manoeuvre around the grocery store, etc.​

A 5-point harness will ensure your baby is secured safely within the stroller. It will provide padding and hold him/her in place to avoid being shaken as you jog. A harness will also prevent them from reaching out and getting their fingers caught in the wheels. Make sure the buckle is closed firmly before you set off.

Like a bike, a handbrake will allow you to control the stroller as you run. Some strollers include wrist straps for added safety. It will prevent the stroller from rolling away from you. This is useful, especially in hilly areas. In a worst case scenario and the stroller gets away from you, it will still be attached by the wrist strap.​

Many strollers have a back wheel lock feature. If it has, then make sure you use it. These strollers are designed to glide effortlessly. If you stop for any reason and need to let go of the stroller, make sure this feature is in place.

This is not strictly a safety feature, though it certainly has some implications. You may have to transport your stroller in a small vehicle, or you may be short on storage space at home. If this is the case then being able to fold your stroller flat will be an advantage. The ability to fold it down on your own is another bonus. This will become clear when you only have one hand free, as the other is holding your child.

A stroller is a little like a bike and needs to be maintained. This will enable it to perform at its best and ensure everyone’s safety. Make sure you keep it in optimum condition. Inspect your tyres before every run to check they have enough air. It’s a good idea to top them up regularly, depending on the frequency of your runs. Check for other issues at the same time, such as loose screws, etc. Keep it lubricated and oiled.

If you go for a run in muddy conditions, clean the stroller as soon as you get home.

Never run with your headphones on. When running with a baby or small child, you need to be extra vigilant. So save the headphones for solo runs.​

3. Dressing For The Weather

As you’re running, you will feel warmer. This will not be the case for your child and so make sure they are dressed appropriately. Use the weather shield in cold or hot conditions. If you’re running in warm weather, then ensure your child wears sunblock. This is in addition to the weather shield.

It is important that you also are prepared for the weather conditions. Your safety is also important. Make sure you dress according to the weather and protect yourself from the elements.

Opt for a stroller with an adjustable weather canopy. This will allow maximum comfort, wherever the sun is positioned.

Cut your run short on hot or very cold days. Or, consider running solo in these conditions.

4. Choose A Safe Route

Avoid running near cars as much as possible. Busy roads don’t make the best running conditions. And it is even more of a safety hazard when you’re running with a stroller and a precious cargo. Find a route that you feel comfortable with. If you’re new to this, avoid hilly areas. You will find that running with a stroller is a lot different to running without one. The added weight of the stroller and baby takes some getting used to. So opt for simple routes first.

Avoid running near cars as much as possible. Busy roads don’t make the best running conditions. And it is even more of a safety hazard when you’re running with a stroller and a precious cargo. Find a route that you feel comfortable with. If you’re new to this, avoid hilly areas. You will find that running with a stroller is a lot different to running without one. The added weight of the stroller and baby takes some getting used to. So opt for simple routes first.

Plan your route ahead so you can let young children know how long you’re going to be. Depending on age, they are likely to ask. Combine it with some play time. For example, you could run to the park and allow your child to play on the swings for a while before you head back. This will make it fun for everyone and provide an incentive for them to be patient. You could also take along some snacks.

Avoid running in crowded areas. Remember, you’re running with the front wheel fixed into position. Therefore, weaving in and out of people is difficult and frustrating. Paved trails are the ideal choice.

As the popularity of jogging strollers has grown, more stroller-friendly areas are cropping up. You will also become aware of races which allow for runners with strollers. These can be fun events, where you get to know other parents. If you do get involved in a race, it is important that you’re aware of the rules. Some races require that you start at the back and don’t get in the way of other runners. This is fine, as you will be running at a slower pace.

5. When To Run

When to run is down to you and your child’s schedule. You may have to experiment a little to find the best time. It’s not advisable to run just before your child's mealtime. They will be feeling hungry and impatient. Some runners find that jogging before nap time is a good idea. The motion of the buggy will rock them gently to sleep. Many children sleep through the majority of the run.

It’s useful to remember that this will be a new experience for your child. They will also need to adjust. It’s worth setting up a routine around your runs. You could begin by each of you getting ready for the run and allowing them to choose a toy. If they are old enough, talk to them about where you’re going and how long it is likely to take. Talk to them about what they will see.

6. What To Bring

Bring as little as you can get away with. The weight of your child and your stroller will be more than you’re used to. Adding to this with unnecessary items will only add to your burden. So only bring the essentials. This might be diapers, wipes, water, milk, snacks, etc. It may also be useful to provide a couple of toys to keep your child occupied.

Most strollers have a basket and a few compartments for packing.

7. Starting Slow And Building Up

If running with a stroller is new to you, it is advisable to start slowly. You will need to run in a different way, which will put a strain on different areas of the body. It will be a completely different experience to running solo. Avoid injury by taking it steady and building up over time.

8. Technique

If you have a stroller with an adjustable handle height, find the correct height for you. Your arms will already be restricted by the stroller. Ensure your comfort by setting the handle at the correct height.

Make sure you keep your elbows bent so that the stroller is closer to your body. Running with straight arms will cause you to stoop, which could cause pain and injury. It is tempting to lean into the stroller towards the end of the run when you’re getting tired. Avoid doing this as it can cause back pain and injury.

Always keep your toes pointing forward. When running up an incline, you may naturally turn your feet sideways to help take the strain. However, this will place undue strain on your body. Remember, you’re already taking the strain with the additional weight. Don’t add to this by overcompensating. So, check that your feet are in the correct position. If they’re not, correct them.

If you need to slow down, then do so. It’s better to take it slowly in the early stages. Jogging with a stroller takes a lot of getting used to. You’re still burning calories, even though you’re running slower. And don’t forget that you are working much harder by pushing the buggy.

9. Stay In Control Of The Stoller

It is important to stay in control of the stroller at all times. Never be tempted to remove your hands, even if just for a few seconds. To work on your momentum, it’s fine to run with one hand, unless you have a wide stroller. But never be tempted to push and then remove your hands.

It is important to stay in control of the stroller at all times. Never be tempted to remove your hands, even if just for a few seconds. To work on your momentum, it’s fine to run with one hand, unless you have a wide stroller. But never be tempted to push and then remove your hands.

10. Have Fun

There are lots of reasons to run. Before your child came along these may have included keeping fit, maintaining a healthy weight, stress relief, enjoyment, etc. Now that your child is here, you have another reason to run. This is a precious time that you can spend together doing something that is enjoyable to both of you. It’s something you can look back on when they have grown out of the stroller. It may even create a spark in them to be outdoors and exercise.

Having fun is important for both of you. If your child becomes bored, things will get difficult. As you head off, keep him/her entertained with chatting and songs. Point out things along the way. Make them laugh. Play games such as hide and seek. If you get the start right, this should set the mood for the rest of the journey. Making it a fun and enjoyable experience will increase the likelihood of a successful run.

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32 Weeks Pregnant – What Should You Feel?

32 Weeks Pregnant – What Should You Feel?

Pregnancy is perceived by many as a life-changing experience. Think about the significant role of giving life to another being. Some say this is a woman’s ultimate purpose in her existence. As from a woman’s perspective, women look at motherhood as the best expression of selfless love. It is like giving saving the best piece of the cake for someone special instead of eating it.

However, pregnancy is not an easy feat. An expectant mom will be challenged in every aspect of her being. It is important for a mom-to-be to be supported by her family and friends through this journey.

Can you actually prepare yourself for motherhood? Of course! Even nature has its own way of preparing a woman’s body to motherhood. Remember the day you had your period and puberty rolled out? As time passes, you learned the ins and out of life. Soon after, you make the decisions for your future.

Then, one day, you confirmed the news about your pregnancy. Symptoms will hit you hard during the first trimester. You will wake up in the morning feeling nauseous and running to the bathroom to vomit. The cells that consist the fertilized ovum inside your body will rapidly multiply. Pregnancy hormones will make an appearance and will cause the many changes in your body. See that changing color of your nipples plus the sensitivity of your breasts? These signs are part of the masterplan to prep your body to become the sole producer of milk for your baby.

The first trimester lasts until the 13th week of pregnancy. Next in line is the second trimester. Your little one is called a fetus at this stage. Some of the symptoms mellowed a bit but there will be more back pains as the muscles are stretched to give room to the growing baby. Baby’s vital organs like the heart, kidney, and lungs are fast developing. Facial features plus the limbs are also becoming distinct.​

At week 29, you are on your way to your third trimester. You will just have to count a few more months until your due date. This part of your pregnancy can be considered remarkable especially at around 32 weeks. What are the important events that take place at week 32? Read on and know the things to expect.​

The baby at 32 weeks is almost 4 pounds heavy and 17 inches long. This means the child is occupying a lot of space inside your belly. As week 32 arrives, you will feel the baby squirming instead of the usual rocking movements. It is between weeks 32 and 38 that your baby will “drop” and settle head down near your pubic bone.

The term “drop” or “lightening” is one of the signs that due date is just around the corner. You will not be able to clearly see this but you will hear the people around you comment about this occurrence. It is impossible to accurately point out the day when the baby descend down the mother’s pelvis.

It is easier during vaginal delivery if the baby’s head comes out of the birth canal first. But this is not always the case, if the baby is positioned bottom down, the condition is referred to as ‘breech’. Breech babies are often delivered via cesarean section in the event that baby does not flip down days before the delivery.

You will notice by week 32 that you are gaining more weight. Half of this pregnancy weight goes to the baby as he or she doubles in size in time for completing the full term.

To support the growing baby inside of you, the body has pushed to blood volume up by 40 to 50 percent. Your expanding uterus is colliding with the other organs which causes frequent heartburn and shortness of breath.

The stretching of the ligaments and muscles on your lower body can lead to back aches. The added weight also contributes to this muscle strain. These backaches can make difficult for you to bend plus sit and stand for long hours. Lower back pains are normal but be sure to notify your doctor for severe pains as it may be a sign of preterm labor.​

Have you heard about Braxton Hicks contractions? These are intermittent and mild contractions that often take place during the third trimester. This condition was first reported by an English physician named Braxton Hicks. Let’s look into the difference between Braxton Hicks and true labor contractions.​

Braxton Hicks contractions:​

• Are not very frequent
• Are not intense
• Will stop once you change position
• Last for less than a minute
• Unpredictable

True labor contractions:

• More intense
• Happen in regular and rhythmic pattern
• Induce more pain
• More frequent and can happen at least four times in an hour

The third trimester is a crucial period as you are near yet so far from due date. If you encounter any of these symptoms, immediately let your doctor know as these situations raise red flags to a pregnancy:

• Severe abdominal cramps
• Severe bleeding
• Rapid vomiting
• Frequent dizziness
• Extreme pain during urination

Nevertheless, if possible, you will need to move and stay active for the remaining three months into your pregnancy. Morning walks are highly recommended for expectant moms. If you have more time and resources to spare, you can enroll to a birthing class, prenatal yoga, aqua yoga and pilates.

You can also devote some of your time to write your to-do list. Here are a few reminders you can include in your notes:​

• Think about your birth plan and strategize how will you execute your plans on the actual day of delivery. Indicate the items you want to pack in your hospital bag and how would your travel from your home to the hospital. You can also identify the people you want to be with as you give birth.
• At 32 to 36 weeks, you should see your obstetrician every two weeks and adjust this schedule to once a week until you deliver your baby.
• Familiarize yourself with the techniques of proper latching as you can already breastfeed your baby a few hours after birth.
• Set up baby’s bed a few days before your due date. There must be no obstruction in places near you and the baby especially when you need to breastfeed your child at night.
• Always practice safe co-sleeping. It is advisable to let baby sleep in a crib or a bassinet that is within your arm’s reach than on the bed where his or her parents sleep. This will reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
• Choose wisely the pediatrician who will check on your baby’s health. Seek the advice of family, friends, or even co-workers. Pick a doctor that has a clinic that is easily accessible and accepts the terms of your health insurance.

A baby is almost full term when you are 32 weeks pregnant. The baby is practically perfect, he has grown eyebrows, lashes and hair. The full languors hair begins to fall off and the babies weight should be around 4 pounds or 1800 grams. Even if born at this time, the baby's chances of survival are much higher than at any other previous time. In fact some babies are already in their birthing position with their head down and chin placed on their chest.

High Blood Pressure

At 32 weeks pregnant you may be getting tired of being pregnant. It is normal for you to constantly feel fatigued and some women can experience high blood pressure. At this point your prenatal doctor will constantly check your blood pressure. Still you should take note of headaches, any swelling of the hands and face or large weight gains. All of these can indicate problems with blood pressure. Keep track of any changes in your body which might indicate preeclamsia, the condition that triggers high blood pressure. Preeclampsia could endanger both the mother and baby's life.

Lower Back Pain

Back pain is another symptom that occurs at 32 weeks pregnant. It is common to experience strong lower back pain which can extend to the buttocks. At this point the mother´s center of gravity changes, so she must be extremely cautious of falls or accidents.

Constipation

Constipation and hemorrhoids may be a real problem at 32 weeks pregnant. As the uterus presses up against the intestines causing problems. To prevent constipation from causing severe hemorrhoids you should eat fruits and vegetables high in fiber and drink lots of nourishing liquids.

Frequent Urination

If you did not experience frequent urination during early pregnancy you will experience it at this point. In fact, there will be moments when you must run to the nearest restroom. At times you may even feel this symptom and realize you don’t need to urinate. This is another symptom at 32 weeks pregnant which occurs from the baby pressing on the bladder.

Anemia

Many women experience anemia or a low iron content in their blood. This causes extreme fatigue and a constant feeling of being tired. Even lots of rest may not relieve the feelings of tiredness.

At 32 weeks pregnant a woman's uterus is almost full size and may even be full size, especially if she is expecting twins. This increase in uterus size may also cause heartburn and indigestion. You may also feel moment of breathlessness. To reduce these feelings you should drink large amounts of water and foods high in fiber.

Being 32 weeks pregnant is going to be tiring and uncomfortable. But just think, you only have a few more weeks to go. In just a few more weeks you will have a beautiful new addition to your family.

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Best Eye Creams for Dark Circles Buying Guide

Best Eye Creams for Dark Circles Buying Guide

When you were young, were you ever taught how to draw a teddy bear by just using the very basic shape of a circle? They even had a song for you to sing while drawing it. Small circle, small circle… big circle. Does it ring a bell? It all seemed so fun then, those circles. Now that you’ve grown, have you ever looked at yourself in the mirror in the morning and saw dark circles, dark circles… dark circles? Now those circles are no fun at all. Drawing teddy bears was fun. Looking like a panda? Definitely not.

It’s not fun when we look tired all the time, even when we are not. It’s not fun when we look older than we actually are. Heck, sometimes we don’t even want to look our age. We want to look younger. Fresh. We want to look lively and healthy.

Dark circles, amongst other things stand in our way to becoming and looking our best version.

What are dark circles and why do they exist?

Dark circles under the eyes are exactly how they sound. Scientifically speaking, they are called periorbital dark circles. While it has been common to blame lack of sleep and stress for those unrelentless dark circles, they actually have a number of different causes. Let us talk about some of the causes of periorbital dark circles.

• Heredity is one of these causes. Yes, dark circles can actually be an inherited trait and can appear as early as childhood. Some children outgrow it whilst others, do not. People are often quick to blame the parents for letting their children stay up too late, when really, nothing could be done about it. It’s part of the child’s genetic design.
• Allergies may also be a factor. Allergic reactions such as nasal congestion can cause the dilation of the blood vessels around the area of the eyes. These dilated vessels are what causes the darkening.
• Sleep deprivation is one of the leading cause of dark circles. Surprisingly, even oversleeping can result to those unforgiving dark circles. Both of these activities can cause stress to your eyes and may result to eye puffiness.
• Stress. Overfatigue means your body is at its weakest. If it is weak, it will be unable to recuperate properly. Your bodily functions may falter, including your skin’s ability to regenerate. Your skin will show signs of aging, and guess which skin area is the first to exhibit this? Yes, your face. Specifically, the skin under your eyes.
• Basically engaging or taking in anything that is harmful to your body will damage your skin. Cigarette smoking, drinking alcohol, and taking prohibited drugs affect not only affects your health, they affect your appearance as well. These activities accelerate your cell’s lifespans and age your body prematurely. We cannot stress enough how your eyes are always the first to show those dreaded signs of aging.
• Skin pigmentation abnormalities such as overproduction of melanin is cited as one factor for dark circles. Melanin is the pigment that darkens the skin. The skin under the eyes is usually one of the first areas to be affected.
• Aging is definitely a cause for dark circles under the eyes. Our skin loses its elasticity as we age, making our skin thinner in general. When this happens, the blood vessels under our eyes become more visible.
• Excessive exposure to the sun, which causes the body to produce more melanin. On top of that, sun exposure contributes to your skin’s aging process.

What to do with dark circles

Naturally, we would want to get rid of those dark circles. To properly handle dark circles, it is helpful to know what is causing them. For more serious cases of dark circles, it may be helpful to go see a doctor and ask for professional advise. They may advise you to get dermatological procedures done such as laser therapy or chemical peeling. In worst cases, laser surgery may be advised.

Sounds scary and expensive, yes? Don’t panic. There are simpler and easier ways to remedy dark circles, of course. Before you make that appointment with your doctor, try practical home remedies first.

You could apply cold compress to your eyes. Cold compress will ease your over dilated vessels and will help relax your eyes. A cold washcloth or ice bag may be used. Cucumber slices could be used over the days for its cooling effect, too.

Start living healthy. Get the right amount of sleep. Sleep with your head elevated by an extra pillow. The elevation will help minimize fluid pooling beneath your eyes. Protect your skin and avoid excessive sun exposure.

For an instant fix, you could conceal those dark circles under your eyes with makeup. Concealers and foundations can work wonders.​

One popular way of treating dark circles is using eye creams. Applying eye cream on your dark circles sounds less expensive and less painful than surgery, now, doesn’t it? Unlike with concealers and foundations, eye creams provide a more permanent remedy instead of just an instant fix. Its long term benefits on your skin may someday deem your use of concealers unnecessary. Doesn’t that sound promising? We are sure it does. Don’t get too excited, though, as most eye creams in the market today declare sweet promises that don’t actually follow through. You must be able to choose wisely.​

We are here to help you choose the best eye cream by providing you with a buying guide that we have come up with. We will discuss with you what to look for in eye creams, what to expect from eye creams, and how to maximize the benefits that eye creams offer. Get ready to erase some dark circles because here we go.​

What is an eye cream?

Eye creams are very light lotions or gels applied on skin under the eyes to reduce dark circles and puffiness. The difference of eye creams from your usual facial moisturizers is that eye creams are gentler. The skin under the eyes are thinner and more sensitive than the rest of your facial skin, and therefore requires a different kind of moisturizer. Eye creams can also reduce the puffiness around the eye area, caused by irritation and sun damage, by providing soothing effects the skin and reducing the inflammation.

What should you look for in an eye cream?

Good eye creams have a gentle formulation infused with antioxidants, cell-regenerating ingredients, and skin-repairing components that will bring back the skin’s elasticity.

There may be two types of eye creams: day eye cream and night eye cream. For day eye creams, it is important that is has SPF content to protect that sensitive skin under your eyes from being further damaged by the sun. While a day eye cream usually has a light and non greasy texture, a night eye cream has a heavier consistency. Day creams are designed to be worn under makeup, thus they need to feel light on the skin. Our skin, like the rest of our bodily functions, regenerates as we sleep. It is when we are resting that our skin does its restoration. Night eye creams are formulated specifically to do some heavy lifting during this time. Night eye creams are focused on providing recovery. They are infused with slow-absorbing moistures that are meant for deep penetration for the whole duration of our resting period. They have no SPF content and contains higher concentrations of anti-aging ingredients including retinol and hyaluronic acid, ingredients which would otherwise be interfered with by sunscreen.

Let’s talk about some of the ingredients found in most eye creams. Retinol is a vitamin A derivative. It strengthens the skin and reduces fine lines by stimulating collagen production. Hyaluronic acid keeps the skin hydrated by drawing moisture from the air. Neuropeptides function pretty much like retinol and stimulates collagen production, except they are much gentler on the dermis. Eye creams using neuropeptides instead of retinol are most suitable for people with sensitive skin. Vitamin C also aid in the production of collagen. Vitamin E aids in the regeneration of skin cells. It serves to soothe and protect.

Whether you’re getting a day eye cream or a night eye cream, get an eye cream that has melanin-inhibiting ingredients that will aid in lightening the darkened skin under the eyes.​

When do you need an eye cream?

Facial moisturizers can usually suffice in providing your needed moisture, that is if the skin under your eyes is the same type as the skin on the rest of your face. This is, however, rarely the case. Especially as you age and get more exposed to harsh elements. So if you’re looking to care and nourish your skin, the answer would be now and for always.

How to choose an eye cream

The skin around the eyes, as we have mentioned, is considerably drier and thinner than the rest of the face. The best eye creams are those that have very emollient formulations.

Choose an eye cream with SPF content for your use during day time. Choose an eye cream that offers deep moisturization for your night eye cream. We recommend that you get both to get the maximum benefits of eye creams as each type caters to different needs. Be sure to check whether the formulation includes the ingredients that we have mentioned which work against the aging of the skin.

Do away with eye creams that have fragrances, as these may only irritate your eyes and skin, especially if you have sensitive skin. Choose eye creams that come in light-sensitive and air-sensitive packaging materials. You would want to make sure the integrity of your eye cream is maintained and that it remains effective. The antioxidants in the formulation are light and air sensitive, you wouldn’t want to render them useless.

A number of eye creams are available in the market. Read up on top-rated eye creams. Compare their features and drawbacks. Rank them according to your preference. Research on the cost, as well, and choose the eye cream that fits into your budget while still maintaining a good reputation among consumers. Ask a professional’s opinion if you can. Eye creams recommended by dermatologists stand to prove their effectivity. They are recommended for a good reason.​

Helpful tips to keep in mind

• As much as you can, know the underlying cause for your dark circles. This will help you address it properly and accordingly.
• If your eye cream for daytime use has no SPF content, apply a reasonable amount of sunscreen on your face together with you eye cream. Remember that during the day, SPF means everything!
• Be wary of products that promise an instant lift. Cosmetic products can only do so much. Sure, they can tighten, firm and lighten the skin, but only to a certain extent. The only way to get that instant lift is through a surgical procedure.
• If you think you have a more serious case of dark circles than most, it is best that you consult with a doctor. Eye creams are awesome, but they can only go so far. They are not miracle workers. Your case might need a more aggressive approach than just dabbing eye cream on your eyes.
• The best thing you can do for yourself is to prevent dark circles instead of waiting until you have no choice but to remedy it. Eye creams are still the key for prevention. Keep in mind that they serve to soothe and moisturize the skin. These are essential aspects of keeping the skin looking and feeling healthy.

Our Recommendation

We here at ParentsNeed HQ know how grueling it is to look for an eye cream that will work best for oneself. This is the reason we have gone on ahead and tested out a number of products available in the market. We have narrowed down the list of eye creams that performed well and have come up with our Top 5 Best Eye Cream for Dark Circles. Click here and find out what is so special about Tarte Maracuja C-brighter Eye Treatment that it made our top 1.

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Top 5 Best Above Ground Pool for Your Family | 2017 Reviews

Summer reminds us of trips to the beach, water activities and endless fun. These things could also be done almost every day when you have a pool in your own backyard; unfortunately, this may not be the case for everyone because it could be very expensive to build and maintain a pool. Do not worry, because you still have the option to enjoy these things if you choose to get an above ground pool. What is this exactly?

These are portable pools that could be easily set up absolutely anywhere, also very affordable and highly practical in terms of value because it will provide the same enjoyment as an in ground pool. Now you have to remember that not all above ground pools are the same, you have to of course get the bang for your buck and only get the highest quality above ground pools for your family to use.

Quick Navigation

Quick Comparison Table

Intex Ultra Frame Pool Set

Bestway Steel Pro Round Frame Pool Set

Intex Metal Frame Pool Set

Bestway Fast Set Round Pool

Intex Easy Set Pool

Conclusion

Your top choices should be:

• Made with quality materials. Whether you choose aluminum, plastic or steel you have to be on the lookout for the quality. If it’s made with aluminum or steel, does it have anti-oxidation layer to prevent corrosion over time? And while plastic is essentially the ideal way to go since it is not a heat conductor, if it’s not quality plastic then it can easily break with frequent use.
• Features such as covers, pumps and other add-ons that will either prolong the life of your above ground pool or make it easier to maintain.

After much deliberation, and a few dips on several above ground pools, we came up with our top 5 choices, which could help you in finding the right one that would fit your family’s needs.

Quick Comparison Table

Intex Ultra Frame Pool Set	Bestway Steel Pro Round Pool Set	Intex Metal Frame Pool Set	Bestway Fast Set Round Pool	Intex Easy Set Pool
$$$	$$$	$$$	$$$	$$$
16 ft x 48 in	12 ft x 30 in	12 ft x 30 in	15 ft x 36 in	12 ft x 30 in
8+ people	4-7 people	4-7 people	6-8 people	4-7 people
5,061 gallons	1,710 gallons	1,718 gallons	2,689 gallons	1,780 gallons

Intex Ultra Frame Pool Set

What is the best above ground pool? We have every reason to believe that it is the Intex Ultra Frame Pool Set. You will surely have a great time lounging in the pool instead more than the time spent in setting this up. Simply watch and follow carefully the instructions provided in the DVD and everything should be a walk in the park, or rather a dip in the pool! This Intex pool could have ample space to accommodate 8 or more people, perfect if your child would want to host a pool party with his friends.

There is no worry if the kids would get rowdy and splash waters to and fro, the frame is made with durable steel frames. These frames are protected by a lawyer of powder which prevents it from accumulating rust with continued use. The sidewalls are also strong enough to handle the weight because they are laminated, and backed up by a band to keep its legs and overall frame in place.

If you worry about contamination, and your kids accidentally drinking pool water, the dual suction outlet fittings effectively circulate it and the salt water generator works at its best in keeping the water clear. All that is left for you to do is make sure that the ground you are putting the pool into is properly levelled and free from stones and other elements, you could even set up a deck around it for the kids to jump from and you are all set. When it comes to changing the water, the drain plug can easily connect to a garden hose, so you will not have a problem with this.

After all the things that we found out about the Intex Ultra Frame Set, we believe that it is a great family inflatable pool, with no fuss set up or clean up. But a little warning, because once this is set up on your lawn or backyard, it could be difficult to keep your kids away from it.

Details of the Intex Ultra Frame Pool Set
Size	16 ft x 48 in
Number of People	8 or more
Dimension	16 x 48 x 48 in
Water Capacity	(90-percent) 5,061 gallons
Filter Pump	1,200 gallon per hour flow

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Bestway Steel Pro Round Frame Pool Set

The Bestway Steel Pro Round Frame Pool Set is one of the nice looking above ground pools in the market today. The pool is round with simple but sturdy steel frames that are easy to set up making the assembly easier than most pools. The instructional DVD is very informative that the pool setup is a breeze, but this does not include the work you need to put in to make sure that the ground is levelled enough to put it in. We believe that this additional step is important to note when setting up any kind of above ground pool, you have allow ample time for the ground levelling part to exercise the full use of your chosen above ground pool setup. It has the capacity to contain at least 4 to 7 persons in it with about 1,710 gallons of water, ideal for small families who just want to lounge around a pool or to cool off in a summer day. Since the pool is not that deep, it is perfect for smaller kids who like to enjoy the water or learn basic swimming techniques, just remember that even if this is the case, we still highly recommend for you to keep an eye on them at all times because accidents could happen even in the safest environments.

The size is also great for families who have smaller yards; it would not eat up a huge amount of space. The pool set includes a 330 gallon filter pump which you could run for longer periods of time to compensate for the time you are using the pool. If you need to drain the pool for safekeeping or to clean the pool, the flow control drain valve is very useful and will enable you to do it faster.

The frames are made with rust-resistant steel and the connectors around the pool are designed to prevent it from moving around when in use, which we really couldn’t help once the kids get excited. Should the pool accidentally be punctured, you do not need to worry because a heavy duty PVC repair patch kit is also included to solve this problem immediately. It’s not our top choice because we can’t have a party if it only fits 4 to 7 people at a time.

Details of the Bestway Steel Pro Round Frame Pool Set
Size	12 ft x 30 in
Number of People	4 to 7
Dimension	32 x 144 x 144 in
Water Capacity	1,710 gallons
Filter Pump	330 Gallon

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Intex Metal Frame Pool Set

The attraction to water is very basic, once you see a pool whether an in ground or above ground type you get sucked in. You either want to jump in and dive or just splash the water with your feet. Another Intex pool on our list is the12 feet by 30 inch metal frame pool set, where you could easily beat the summer heat with. Similar to the first two on our list, this also has the signature metal frame that is highly used for its strength and durability. This comes in handy when the kids or kids at heart are getting a little bit excited and the water activities physical. The sidewalls are laminated and reinforced by an all-around band basically to make sure that the frame withstands all the activities happening inside.

This is one of our favorites because it definitely fits what we believe to be the standard above ground pool sizes. It could handle 4 to 7 persons, a family pool party with probably Grandma and Grandpa, totally awesome. The instructional DVD included in the kit is easy to understand and follow, just make sure that once you receive this item you arrange and check all the parts.

The Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter pump makes sure that the water in the pool is clean and safe to enjoy. We are also happy about the added safety that the ground fault circuit interrupter brings; this triggers the pump to shut down when exposed to water. This feature is wonderful because safety should always be our top priority. Since this is Intex, it has the same drain plug system wherein once connected to a house is available for easy draining, and the sidewalls are laminated and are break proof.

All in all, this is a great pool to buy; you could fence it and secure the area for additional safety or modify the ladder to get the platform you require. However, the filter may not be capable of clearing all the other debris that may fall into your pool so it would be best to get a skimmer to handle that. Otherwise, still one of the best above ground pools we have today.

Details of the Intex Metal Frame Pool Set
Size	12 ft x 30 in
Number of People	4 to 7
Dimension	30 x 144 x 144 in
Water Capacity	(90-percent) 1,718 gallons
Filter Pump	530 gallon per hour flow rate

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Bestway Fast Set Round Pool

We believe that the Bestway Fast Set round pool is the one of the easiest to set up backyard above ground pools. Why do we say so? All you have to do to set this baby up is to choose a location where you want it erected, inflate the top ring and fill with water. And in just three easy steps, you have a pool that would fit around 6 to 8 people, oh what fun! If you still have difficulty setting the pool up, no worries, you could always watch the instructional video to make things easily understandable.

This Bestway pool is also not too deep, great for little children who are usually the audience for this kind of recreation. Once the pool is filled with water which is also easy because the pool set comes with a 530 gallon filter pump; you could sit back, relax and just wait for the fun to start, which we’re pretty sure won’t take that long. The pool wall is made of heavy duty PVC and polyester, which guarantees durability. This is also one of the great inflatable pools for adults who don’t have the budget and time to get an inground pool or are not exactly keen on inflatables that have tons of parts to mind. Although the 3-ply wall is durable, you still need to be mindful of other materials that could accidentally cause leakage or holes such as sharp objects.

If you encounter a leak or the pool is punctured, you have the heavy duty repair patch to get it done. The flow control drain valve also makes it easy to drain the pool in no time, attach it your hose and let it do all the work. This above ground pool, comes with a filter pump and cartridge, cover, ground cloth and a ladder, basically all the things you need to set up when you want to have tons of awesome water fun.

Despite all the wonders of this pool, it could be a little difficult to find a replacement filter cartridge, and although the pump’s cord is long it has to be plugged to an outlet directly, so setting it up far away from an outlet is not a great idea.

Details of the Bestway Fast Set Round Pool
Size	15 ft x 36 in
Number of People	6 to 8
Dimension	36 x 180 x 180 in
Water Capacity	(80-percent) 2,689 gallons
Filter Pump	530 Gallon

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Intex Easy Set Pool

This is another one of the easy set up above ground pools that we love, very easy to assemble and store when not in use. It is also affordable depending on the time of purchase, of course these goes on sale when the summer is over. If you have not yet decided if you really want to have a pool in your backyard, this is an option, to gauge the maintenance, size of pool you prefer or even how frequent your family would use the pool.

It comes with a 110-120 Volt Filter pump which you could easily hook up to the pool to provide clean and clear water, the amount of time spent on filling it with water may actually vary depending on the water pressure of your area. Similar to the previous easy set up pool, you just need to inflate the top ring and fill this pool with water to enjoy it. Once you decide to disassemble it, you could rely on the drain plug that fits a garden hose to help you get rid of the water.

Despite the ease of assembling and disassembling of this product, it may not be wise to store it, as it could take up a lot of space in your garage or storage area. Plus the fact that there are no frames that could support it during usage, it would be best if you could fence it in or add support to maximize the usage. All the pools need to be in a levelled surface, but we have to stress it out for this one, since it could topple over easily which may result to injury if the ground is uneven.

You would still get the value for your money once you see your little ones excited over your new Intex pool, definitely graduating from the one person swimming pool they could previously have. More exciting water activities surely await your whole family for the whole summer long, pool party anyone?

Details of the Intex Easy Set Pool
Size	12 ft x 30 in
Number of People	4 to 7
Dimension	30 x 144 x 144 in
Filter Pump	530 gallon per hour flow rate

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Conclusion

Once you finally set up one of this high quality above ground pools it will automatically fulfill their purpose and that is to provide a fun and exciting water experience for you and your family. Prepare for massive amount of love and splashes of water coming your way. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.

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