With the copious amounts of rainfall we have been getting across the country this spring, there is a good chance you will be running in the rain at some point. Inclement weather does not mean you have to run indoors on a treadmill. And most races are not cancelled because of rain. So instead of heading indoors, try these tips to make sure you’re prepared for running in the rain:
Wear appropriate clothing/layers
If it’s very cold and rainy, you may need to wear a couple of layers. The most important layer is the one closest to your body. Make sure it’s a technical fabric such as polypropylene or CoolMax, which wick water and sweat away from your skin. Your outer layer should be a wind and water resistant jacket or vest. Don’t wear a waterproof rain slicker because it will trap moisture and heat. Over-dressing because of rain, will just lead you to perspire more, again defeating the goal. This is one of the biggest mistakes runners make when heading out for a rainy run. Wearing more layers does not mean you will stay dry; it may mean that you will be wearing unnecessary heavy and wet clothes. Be sure and bring an extra set of dry clothing after you have completed the run. Be sure to wear moisture wicking socks. It is pretty much inevitable that you will end up stepping in a puddle during your run, and cotton socks will get soggy, squishy, and stretched, leading to blisters.
Wear a brimmed hat
Ever wished glasses had windshield wipers? Since that is not invented yet, a hat will do. A hat with a brim can be your best friend during a rainy run. It will keep the rain off your face, so you can see, even in a downpour.
Wear visible clothing
Safety is always a foremost priority. Select an outer layer that’s light-colored or has reflective strips, since running in the rain often means poor visibility. Wearing reflective material or a lighter-colored shirt will increase your visibility. You may even consider supplementing your clothing with LED lights. Wearing reflective material or a lighter colored shirt will increase your visibility and keep you safe while you run in the rain.
Protect your electronics
I don’t need to tell you that your electronics are too expensive to risk being damaged. Keep your cellphone, MP3 players, and GPS units in a ziplock bag or water proof container. Most touch screens on these units are accessible through plastic.
Prevent chafing
Use products such as Body Glide or Vaseline on parts of your body where you would normally chafe or get blisters such as your feet, inner thighs, and underarms. Body Glide isn’t just for perspiration. When you are wet, places likely to cause friction and rub will create chafing.
Accept the fact that you are going to get wet, stay safe, and keep running! #RunToSucceed
