How to Run in the Rain. A Tribute to the Rainy States.

March 27, 2012 — 2 Comments

No, you can’t run in rain boots, but I like the way you think.

I had been traveling back and forth from Buenos Aires, Argentina to Portland, Oregon for the last couple of years. The biggest difference is not the language, it is the weather. I am a native Oregonian and before I left I was a road running warrior, rain or shine. When I was in Buenos Aires I was blessed. The weather is beautiful and even the winter was full of sunny skies. Rain comes, but it leaves as fast as it arrives. Buenos Aires does have a tendency to get hot, but this simply means you adjust your workout schedule.

Moving back to Portland has given me some surprises. One of them is that I realized how much it rains. Ok ok, duh! I know. Of course I knew it rained allot, but before it was something I was accustomed to. Leaving and coming back has made some changes to my comfort levels.

In light of the fact it is almost April and mostly raining, I thought I would lend a helping hand to help you stay motivated with your fitness goals.

• Dress for success. This is obvious, but it is important to know that part of committing to getting in shape is being prepared. Living in a rainy state means you need to make an investment in your workout attire. There is allot of technology out there for outdoor performance gear and weather guarding. Remember to layer, once you get going you will find your layers need to be stripped. I like running in a tech shirt, a hoodie, and a running jacket. It’s not bad to sweat a little harder, but if I need to I can always remove a layer.

• Music. Look forward to your soundtrack. Spend some time ahead of your workout to put together a motivating playlist with songs you look forward to hearing. This helps me get out the door. Even better, put the music on as you’re getting ready…there is nothing wrong about getting your game face on while you are suiting up! If needed, make a special “get pumped up in the rain” playlist you can fall back onto.

• Buddy Up. accountability is an all weather condition. If you workout with a partner you are 30% more likely to not back out. Another good reason to have like-minded friends.

• Accessories. Head Lamp, gloves, scarf, knee high socks, hat, ear warmers, and tights. This is more than an opportunity to dress up like Batman, these are survive in the cold-rain accessories.

• Workout Plan. Have your whole plan drawn up in advance. This will ensure your chances of success. Having a goal is half the battle and will help you see you make the effort worth it.

• Variation. Have several different workout days for your week. A good mix of indoor activities and outdoor activities helps you quickly adjust your plan if the rain springs up on you at the last minute. Variety is good.

• Preheat your clothes. Cold and wet? Throw your cloths in the dryer for a few minutes to heat them up before you put them on. This is a nice way to at least start warm.

• Do a dynamic warm up. Before you run out the door, get the blood moving. The hardest part about working out in the rain is that you may find it takes longer to warm up. Do a dynamic warmup in advance to help you ease into it when you are in the slush.

These are some things that have helped me hit the wet concrete and I am sure you will find they will help you too.

Need advice? Just ask Coach!

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