Tried & Tested Tips for Running in the Rain
When you take up running, you understand that it'll often involve getting out and about in all weathers. From the summer heat to near freezing temperatures, we often have to adapt how we go about running in accordance with what the weather is doing and that also goes for when it rains. Regardless of weather you set off in it or get caught in it, here are a few tips for jogging in the rain :)
Do not run during a thunderstorm
If a thunderstorm is forecast or if one is currently in progress, don't think about going out and running it in, as thrilling as it might be. It can in fact be quite dangerous and so you'd be much better off staying in until it passes.
If one happens to occur whilst you're already out, then perhaps seek shelter until it finishes or give someone a ring to come and get you in the car, if you carry a phone on you. But if the weather is set to be bad, then take it as a rest day and go out running another day.
If there are strong winds, forget it
Much like running in a thunderstorm, this is dangerous. Trees could blow over and other, larger pieces of debris could get blown into you or into your path, causing you to take evasive action.
You could also get blown about if the wind really is very strong, together with passing cyclists who could end up crashing into you if you're unlucky enough to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. If the wind is strong, put the run off until the wind has died down.
Wear a hat with a brim
If you're adamant that you're going to go out running in the rain, you'll need a cap of some sort to help keep the water out of your face. I ended up getting caught in heavy rain on a run before and that, together with the wind, actually made my eyes quite sore.
It's also incredibly distracting having water running in your eyes and, believe it or not, up your nose. If I spot some rain clouds in the distance, I'll definitely be grabbing a cap to avoid being blasted in the face by cold, fat drops of rain water.
Put a couple of layers on, if it's chilly
If it's chilly, then invest in a lightweight, waterproof jacket specifically made for running/exercise as it'll be breathable and, in some cases, windproof. If it's warm out and it's set to rain, then you won't actually need too many layers.
In the summer, I always go out running in tank tops/vests to keep as cool as possible, so if it rains, I'm not wearing an entire T-shirt that'll get soaked and heavy when wet. Also, if it's just a shower and the sun comes out in the summer months, you'll be dry again in no time.
Stand out from the crowd with high-visibility accessories
Always opt for bright, eye-catching colours if it's grey and miserable. Better still, buy some reflective gear such as wrist bands, ankle bands, belts or even stickers. If being seen is something you're especially bothered about, then you can even purchase head lights as they aren't just for use in the dark/at night.
Protect your electronic devices
If you like to track your fitness using a watch or Fitbit, then it'll be a bit harder for you to protect from the rain. But if, like me, you use your phone to track your runs, then you can buy waterproof cases quite easily, and affordably, from places like Amazon.
There are a number of different makes and sizes available, so no matter what phone you have, there's an arm band, or even a lightweight vest, on the market that'll house and protect your mobile device from the rain.
Have your wits about you
Running in the rain poses extra risks and gives us more things to factor into our surroundings. Puddles, excessive pooling water, overflowing drains and slippery surfaces are just some of the additional risks we have to think about when the rain comes pouring down.
For example, if the puddles are deep, refrain from stepping into them as there could be anything at the bottom. If there's water pooling in the road,near the pavement up ahead, then cross the road so you don't get soaked by the traffic. If a certain pavement is slabbed, then be careful as the water could make the surface slippy.
Whip off your wet clothes ASAP, behind closed doors
As soon as you get home, make sure you get out of those sodden clothes so as to avoid becoming too cold. You should have a shower and get into some clean, dry clothes as soon as possible. It's such a great feeling when you finally sit down and chill out after a good run and a hot shower.
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I hope you enjoyed this blog post! Let me know in the comments how you like to get through running in the rain or if you have any more tips for braving the wet weather. I'll see you again very soon with a brand new blog post.
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I did 18km last week in drizzle that turned heavy 5km from home. I'd luckily brought my rain jacket tied round my waist (it's hi viz yellow too) so pulled it on over the top of my camel back so my phone and so one stayed dry too. The rain doesn't bother me too much, it can be quite cooling - unless it's coming in sideways and freezing. That's pretty unpleasant.
ReplyDeleteSome excellent tips here. High Viz is a great call and a rest day if it's chucking it down is always the way I work things. Not a fan of running in high wind either.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing.