REFUSE TO LET RAIN DOMINATE YOUR RUN

By K10 Patel / Dec 29th, 2023

It’s a cloudy day with rain, so I’m not going to step outside for my run. I have made this excuse many times during the onset of my running hobby. After I let rain delay or completely cancel my runs many times, I decided that I needed better resolve. Don’t let rain ruin or dictate your runs. Embrace the opportunity to run in the rain and let it make you stronger. Be better prepared for running in the rain by following these three tips:

image shows rain drops on the floor

1. Think of Wet Precipitation as a Positive

Rain is good weather. Rain is good weather. Just keep saying it repeatedly like a mantra. Maybe it will stick in your mind. Most people won’t say that rain is good weather, but I don’t mind rain. I grew up in both England and the Chicagoland area, where you get your fair share of cloudy days with a little bit of rain. I would rather run in a little bit of rain than when the sun is beating down on me. Running in the rain will build some toughness (mentally and physically). At a minimum, you need to be mentally prepared that a run in the rain will get you wet as opposed to a run in the sun.

this image shows a family running in the rain with rain jackets on

2. Dress Appropriately

Don’t put too many layers on just because it’s raining. You may sweat more than usual due to the heat caused by too many layers, however, you do need to layer up appropriately. 

It depends on how heavy the rain is and how windy it may be, but typically a base layer like a compression fit top with a long sleeve would be good with a rain jacket as an outer layer. If the rain is just a light drizzle, you may be able to get away with a compression base layer with a short sleeve top – No rain jacket needed. 

Anything more than a light drizzle, would warrant an outer layer that is waterproof and windproof. Regardless of the rain intensity, I always wear a moisture wicking headband with a hat. Remember not to wear cotton socks. I never wear cotton on my feet during a run regardless of weather, but especially during wet weather, the avoidance of cotton material on your feet is a must. If it’s dark, ensure to remain visible.

image shows a vaseline bottle which prevents chafing in the rain

3. Prevent Chafing

This can occur on any run regardless of weather, however, when you get wet, chafing can occur more easily. Ensure to put on Vaseline or Aquaphor on parts of your body where friction is most likely to occur.

If it’s absolutely pouring such that you cannot see very far or there are thunderstorms, you should stay indoors since the risks might not be worth the outdoor run.

Is It Safe to Run in the Rain?

Yes, it is perfectly safe if precautions are taken such as the three tips mentioned in this blog. Running in thunderstorms, hails or heavy downpours are not safe and should be avoided, otherwise, there are no negatives from running in light showers. It has been a popular myth that running in the rain can make you sick or that you get pneumonia when running in the rain. Both of these statements are far from the truth. You cannot catch a cold or get pneumonia from getting wet – It is the virus that is caught which can get your sick.

The only risk is your chance of slipping and falling. This can be mitigated by wearing good running footwear and not running in puddles of water.

Is It Better to Go Faster or Slower in Rainy Weather?

With good running shoes you will have good traction, there should not be any limitations on going fast or slow. Run at whatever pace feels comfortable. In light showers, there are no restrictions. Obviously, care should be taken on the running route which you picked so as not to step in any large puddles or icy areas if the temperatures are below freezing.

Bottom Line

Rain or shine, get through your run during the timeslot you initially scheduled your workout for. Being disciplined enough to go for a run in the rain takes a certain type of attitude. It is very easy to say that it’s raining, so the run is a no-go. Anybody can make excuses. Sometimes you need to just accept that the weather may not be ideal or that things may not be going your way, but that’s okay. 

Put on your rain jacket or your running clothes that don’t mind getting wet and get out there. Running won’t always feel great or be in dry conditions. You need to allow your clothes and shoes to get wet. They were intended to get wet. Running in the rain is good for you. You can always run indoors during rain, but what fun is that?

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