TIPS WHEN RUNNING IN THE RAIN

I did running in the rain a couple of times after the Rock and Run Race that turned into "ROCK, RUN & RAIN" incident (view my prevoius blog: Rock and Run 2010---I ROCKED running in the rain!). Here are some tips when running in the rain:

1.    Make sure your wearing a polyester (dri fit/climacool) fabric which will wick water and sweat away from your body. Cotton shirts are a big no-no. This will absorb water and will weigh you down as you run. Wearing layers of clothing wouldn't help to keep you dry (unless you are running with an umbrella over your head). Dress as if it is a dry day.

2.    A cap would come in handy. It will keep the rain off your face.

3.    Since running in the rain often means poor visibility, select an outer layer that has reflective strips on it. You can also wear bright colored outfits.

4.    If you have to wait outside in the rain before the start of a race, a big trash bag with armholes and a neck hole cut out can help you stay dry. You can take it off and throw it to the side once you get moving.

5.    If you are running a race, keep your race shoes and socks in a plastic bag while waiting at the start. You can put on your race shoes and socks right before you head to the starting line. If it has stopped raining by then, you'll be able to run the race in dry shoes and socks.

6.    If you are running long, you can apply Vaseline on parts of your body where you would normally chafe or get blisters -- such as your feet, inner thighs, underarms, sports bra lines (women), and nipples (men).

7.    Store electronics, such as your cell phone and iPod, in a ziplock bag or a water-proof carrier.

8.    When you get back from a wet run, take off your running shoes and stuff them with crumpled balls of newspaper. This helps the shoes keep their shape, and the paper draws moisture away from the shoes.

Photo credit: brokenheartedrunner.wordpress.com

Remember that the hardest part of running in the rain is often just getting you started. But once you started running and you were able to warm up, you will find yourself enjoying it. Running in the rain will also help you prepare in case you have to run a race in the rain.