No matter where we live running in the rain is a fact of life. While Western Canada sees its share of the wet stuff, the east also experiences precipitation, although it invariably falls as snow in winter. But spring and summer across Canada will see rain in most provinces, so here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your rainy runs.
1. Choose appropriate gear
Wearing a hat with a brim and a waterproof jacket for your top layer will definitely make your rainy run much more comfortable. This will ensure that your face and your upper body stay dry. Depending on the temperature, you should also wear moisture-wicking shorts or leggings. Avoid wearing cotton on any parts of your body because it tends to absorb moisture rather than wicking it. Your shoes should have solid traction so that you don’t slip.
2. Adjust your training schedule to fit the weather
If you planned to do a hard interval workout, but the sky decided to open up, then it is best to reschedule that session for another day and opt for an easy run instead. Doing an easy run on a rainy day will help you keep the pressure off yourself and it will help prevent you from slipping on a wet surface. If you take it easy during a rainy day, you will get more out of your interval workout on a nicer day.
3. Wear bright, reflective clothing and be vigilant
Rain often makes it difficult for drivers, and even cyclists, to see runners. Therefore, it’s important to be seen from a distance. Additionally, you must also pay much more attention to what is going on around you and always assume that others do not see you. You may also want to wear a headlamp to further increase your visibility.
4. Builds Character
Although you may not be able to go as fast and running in the rain may not always be fun, you must understand that the challenging conditions will make you stronger. Being able to embrace running in the rain will ultimately give you the mental strength to do well in other areas of your life and in other challenging situations. Furthermore, it will prepare you for the bad weather you may encounter on race day.
5. Prevent Chafing
If you’re wet from the rain, you are more likely to chafe. Therefore, use Vaseline or Body Glide where you normally chafe, particularly if you are doing a longer run.
6. Bring extra socks if you’re doing a longer run
Put a dry pair of socks in a plastic bag and put them in your running belt. That way, you can change them if it stops raining.
7. Dry your shoes after a wet run
For your shoes to maintain their shape, you should stuff them with crumpled pieces of newspapers as opposed to putting them in the dryer or near a heater.
With a little bit of planning and some adjustments to your training schedule, rain shouldn’t derail your running. It is a matter of having the right gear and the mindset to get out and do it. After a while you may even get to like it!
Read this story in the digital edition of IMPACT Magazine.
IMPACT Magazine’s 2021 Running Issue
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