RUNNING IN THE RAIN – 8 STRATEGIES FOR A BAD WEATHER RACE
By Jessica Bissot, Running Karma
Are you a sunshine runner? Well, waiting for the perfect running weather may just get you no where. May not even get you started at all.
Yes, admittedly running in the rain doesn’t make it pretty, but once you’re warmed up and you’re sloshing your way on wet pavement, it actually makes you feel alive and hard-core. Totally badass feeling included.
There’s no need to be scared when facing a race in horrid weather conditions (unless there’s lightning then don’t run). It just makes you a strong athlete. But also the strongest athletes need to be prepared for a wet and cold race. So here are some helpful tips and tricks that will get you through the miles:
1. USE VASELINE
Yes, that’s right! Spread vaseline on your exposed skin areas to protect against the wind and the cold. Most exposed areas to cover with vaseline are face, ears, hands. It almost feels like a second skin layer.
2. KEEP YOUR CORE WARM
Focus on your core. Don’t worry too much about your hands and feet. They may be cold and frozen, which is normal, but the main focus should be to keep your core warm, the other body parts will warm up eventually.
3. RUN IN LAYERS
If it’s really cold and rainy, think in layers. Cold and wet weather conditions combined with strong winds, tend to cool your body down rather quickly. For a marathon distance, you may be cold for quite a while. To avoid the chill and freeze, consider 2 layers for the upper body, short sleeve plus a lightweight jacket. You may also consider a transparent trash bag to throw over like a poncho, doesn’t weight much and is easy to dispose when it gets too warm after all. But don’t overdress either.
4. LISTEN TO YOUR BODY
Most importantly, stay safe. Whatever the weather conditions, listen to your body. Know the physical signals when facing hypothermia. Know what to do and when to act, be prepared to stop, warm up or even drop out. Your health and safety should always come first.
5. RACE OUTFIT SMART
It’s never easy to choose the most appropriate running attire. Especially if the weather conditions are predicted to be rainy and cold. Runners gotta be smart about their race outfit.
Best thing to wear is moisture wicking apparel. Avoid cotton based fabrics as they soak up which can get really uncomfortable and an additional heavy load.
Also, consider your outfit to be form fitting. The tighter the better as this may also prevent chafing.
6. WEAR A HAT AND SHADES
A hat with a visor helps to keep the rain out of your face, unless the rain hits from the front. Wear shades, though there’s no sun. Wind and rain in the eyes will make your vision blurry and can be a huge distraction.
7. CHANGE OUT OF WET CLOTHES RIGHT AFTER THE RUN
Right after you cross the finish line, try to get into dry clothes as soon as possible. The moment you stop moving, your body cools down quickly. Combined with wet clothes, you’ll start shivering with immediate effect. If you cannot change right after the race, try to grab a warming cape, at least this may help for a short while.
8. EMBRACE THE RAIN
It’s simple: It’s time to play. So have fun in the rain, feel it and enjoy it!
Originally posted and used by permission by http://www.runningkarma.com
