Many people believe autumn is the best time of the year to be outside. The weather isn’t too hot or too cold, and the changing scenery gives way to some pretty breathtaking views. Plenty of runners use this time to prepare for marathons or simply squeeze in as many outdoor workouts as possible before the snow starts falling.
Although the cooler temperatures make for a more pleasant running experience, it also brings with it an increased likelihood of rain. Some people hate running in the rain, while other love splashing along through the puddles as they run. Getting your workout in during bad weather is fun, but you also need to take some extra precautions to make sure you don’t get hurt because of the sloppy weather. Below, we discuss six ways to stay safe during a run in the rain.
1. Wear shoes with tread – Most running shoes are designed to grip the pavement, but if you’ve had your shoes for a long time the tread may be worn down. Avoid running in an old pair of tennis shoes – in fact, avoid using any shoe that isn’t specifically made for running.
2. Run on the sidewalk – The sidewalk is usually home to dog walkers and the occasional biker, but you won’t find many of them outdoors on a rainy day. Use that to your advantage and run on the sidewalk. Not only will this keep you safe from cars that may have trouble seeing you in the adverse conditions, but your shoes will also maintain a good grip with the sidewalk’s coarse surface. Painted lines on the street or bike path can become slippery when wet.
3. Wear layers – Make sure you wear a few layers so you stay warm during your run. Consider investing in a lightweight rain jacket or poncho to dispel the rain. If you don’t have a rain jacket, you can assemble a makeshift one with a trash bag and a pair of scissors. And don’t forget about your legs. Leggings or long johns should be worn underneath athletic pants or shorts.
4. Be visible – Donning a garbage bag to block the rain may keep you warm, but when paired with a pair of black pants, you can become virtually invisible to passing motorists. Even though you’ll be on the sidewalk, odds are you’ll have to cross a few intersections throughout your run. Wear brightly colored pants or long sleeve shirts so you stay visible to drivers, and put some reflective tape or lights on your front and back to alert others of your presence.
5. Lube up – With wetness comes chaffing, so you’ll want to put some Vaseline on your body to reduce friction. Put it on any area of your body that might rub, like between your thighs or underneath your arms. Nobody wants to cut a run short because it becomes too uncomfortable to continue.
6. Don a hat – Wearing a hat with a brim will help keep water off your face and out of your eyes. Getting water in your eyes can sting and impact your visibility, and you’ll want to make sure you can see every step you take when the ground is wet.
Post-Run Follow Up Tip – Once your run is over, hang up your wet clothes so they can dry before being tossed in the hamper. Take off your shoes and loosen the laces to help the shoes breathe. Crumple up some newspaper and stuff it inside your shoes to help remove moisture. Then, reward yourself with either a warm shower or cup of hot coffee, or both!