Why you should be running in the rain

You’ve planned a run and are all set to go when you realize it’s raining. The easy thing to do is stay inside, maybe even get back under the covers. We’ve all done it haven’t we? We want the weather for our run to be perfect, but running in the rain doesn’t have to be miserable. It can even be nice and refreshing at times, you just need to know how to prepare.

There are a few reasons to run in the rain, but a note of safety first. Don’t go out for a run if there is thunder or lightning, or extreme wind. Also avoid hail storms or an extreme downpour that will prevent you from seeing where you are going. Light to moderate rain, however is perfectly fine as long as you’re careful.

You can’t predict the weather on race day

If you’re training for a race, you can’t rule out the possibility that it might rain. If you’re not accustomed to running under adverse conditions it could make the experience miserable. Knowing what to expect and how to handle it can make all the difference. Maybe this could be you?

Running in the rain can boost confidence

Running in the rain, especially if the temps are a little cooler can really make for a nice run. Having a nice mist to cool you off can do wonders for performance and tromping through a puddle with rain dripping down your face can honestly make you feel like kind of a bad ass.

You could be missing out

Depending on where you live, you could be sitting it out or hitting the treadmill quite a bit during the rainy season and missing out on some great runs. Ok, the treadmill isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but if you’re training for a road or trail race you want to spend as much time outside as possible.

Dos and Don’ts

There are a few things that can make running in the rain a better experience.

DON’T

• Wear your favorite shoes – I always avoid taking my faves out to get water logged and wear another pair instead. Speaking of getting water logged, make sure you dry them out afterwards. Stuffing with newspaper is a great absorbent…absorber…method of absorbing water.
• Overdress – the more you wear, the more gets wet and soggy. keep it simple with light layers.
• Wear your mom’s rain jacket – If it’s cold and you need a jacket, make sure it’s moisture wicking and appropriate for activities like running. Regular rain jackets are designed to keep the water out, but also to keep the heat in. Not what you want during a run.
• Wear dark or muted clothing – like running in the dark, running in the rain makes it harder for people and cars to see you. Keep things bright and visible.

DO

• Wear a hat or visor with a brim – a nice brim will help to keep the rain off your face and out of your eyes.
• Protect your electronics – Get a water proof pouch for your phone, or put it in a Ziploc bag to keep it from getting wet.
• Lube up – Chafing and blisters can happen much more often in the rain. Make sure you use an anti-friction stick, or whatever it is you like to use to keep the chafe at bay.
• Watch your step – keep your eyes peeled for slick parts of the road, such as paint or reflective areas. Once wet, these can easily cause a slip and fall if you’re not careful.
• Avoid storms – again in case you missed it, don’t get yourself caught in a dangerous storm situation like a thunder or lightning storm!

Ok now you’re prepared so give it a go next time it rains. You may love it, you may hate it, but trust me that if you’re serious about this running thing you need to get used to it or at least know how to tackle it. If you see someone else out there, give them a knowing nod. Hello, fellow rockstar.