11 Tips for Running in the Rain
For some runners, rain is not a good friend, but for others, it's an extra motivation to go out and train.
Rain brings with it the fresh scent of wet earth, a natural perfume that conveys calm and serenity. Every stride will immerse you in this fragrance, creating a unique and enriching experience. It renews the environment and creates a special connection with nature. Running in the rain allows you to be part of this process, giving you a unique perspective of the world around you. Additionally, it adds a challenging element to your workouts. Overcoming the mental and physical resistance involved in running in wet conditions will help you strengthen yourself both mentally and physically. It helps you break the monotony of your daily workouts, as running in the rain is an excellent way to challenge your limits and add an exciting touch to your sessions. Rain can be liberating and empowering.
Four reasons to go for a run in the rain
It smells of grass and wet earth
Rain can cause many effects, but the most frequent is the pleasant smell of wet earth that it creates after a good downpour. This pleasant smell brings tranquility and its intensity increases the longer it has been since it rained, or if the downpour is heavy. We want to smell that and have each of our strides dry up the puddles that may have formed in their wake. Is there a better feeling than that?
We've all experienced it at some point, and it's hard to explain. But our question is always the same: Is it going to rain for a long time, or will it stop after the shower?
We start to feel "anxious" and we already see that if the rain doesn't stop, we're going to miss today's training. And we're hoping it's just a few drops.
We are overcome by the feeling of being "trapped" and that there is something we cannot control. The training time is approaching and fortunately, even though it was more than just a light rain, it finally stopped.
The sky clears up
So if it rains, you can wait for it to stop, as usually a great day follows, with a clean and clear sky.
Because it's raining, I'm going for a run.
Yes, there are also those for whom water is an incentive. They are so brave that not even the rain stops them. Running in the rain is one of the pleasures we should not give up. In Ramón Oliu's book, L'essència del Córrer, written in 1979 and a pioneer in running literature, the author says that "running in the rain is just another phase in the training of any avid runner."
Feeling the rain directly on your skin can be very pleasant, so it's recommended not to cover up too much, though the clothes you wear should be appropriate. Check out these 11 tips that might be useful.
11 Tips for Running in the Rain
1.- If you live in a place where it rains a lot, you should know that, as everything has evolved, we now have shoes with specific water-repellent technologies.
Our feet will be protected and dry, making it even more satisfying to go for a run after it has rained. If you're concerned about slipping, Adidas, Mizuno, and Asics brands have outsoles that perform very well on wet surfaces.
When you go to buy them, look for the Continental outsole on Adidas or the Ahar+ on Asics.
2.- Don't forget to hydrate. Your body needs a minimum amount of water when exercising, whether it's raining, cold or not.
3.- Warm up at home or find shelter. Don't skip your warm-up just because it's raining; in fact, you might need to spend a little more time on the exercises you usually do. Keep in mind that a humid and cold environment can increase the risk of muscle injuries.
4.- On a rainy day, it's better to forget about intervals or turning the session into an intense workout. Adjust your plan with the idea of enjoying yourself while exercising in a more relaxed way. High intensity in the rain can be "very costly" due to the risk of injuries, slips, etc.
5.- Make sure the route you choose today will be free of delicate or problematic areas. Rain can wreak havoc, and you must ensure you run without risks. Avoid areas that might be slippery due to mud or heavily covered in water.
6.- Equip yourself with technical running apparel that repels water and also breathes.
If you train in absorbent fabric (like cotton)
- You'll be more uncomfortable.
- The garment's weight will increase.
- It will cause chafing in sensitive areas.
If you opt for a waterproof garment, make sure it's not just a simple plastic. Today we have garments available that repel water and also offer great breathability to avoid running "inside a sauna."
If, despite appropriate clothing, you tend to experience chafing, rain can increase that possibility. Therefore, use petroleum jelly in sensitive areas and/or where you have experienced it before.
7.- Keep in mind that visibility is significantly reduced in rainy conditions. It's not so much about you seeing well, but about being seen by others. Equip yourself with brightly colored clothing, and if it also has reflective elements, even better...
Find caps and visors at BeUrbanRunning
8.- If it's one of those days where the rain is accompanied by wind, you might want to grab a garment with a hood. Failing that, a snugly fitting cap with a visor that covers your face will also protect you.
9.- If you normally use your phone or gadgets on your runs, store them inside waterproof garments to prevent possible damage.
10.- Back to the beginning. Find cover to stretch at the end of your workout and don't let your body get too cold. A shower with contrasting temperatures is one of the best ways to end your run today.
11.- Finally, remember to wash your clothes and dry your shoes as soon as possible so they are ready for the next day. Putting "kitchen" paper or similar inside helps to remove moisture from within more quickly.
Don't let the rain stop you! Change your perspective and turn every drop into a reason to enjoy your running sessions even more. Experience nature in its purest state, challenge your limits, and feel how each step brings you closer to your strongest and most resilient self. Are you ready to make rain your ally with every stride? Go run in the rain, it's been said!
· You might be interested in: Top 8 Trail Running Shoes – Be Urban Running Blog
