Don’t let the weather “rain on your finish line parade.” You can still have a great race (Des Linden 2018 Boston) and go singing in the rain all the way to the finish
Running in the rain on race day can be a challenging experience for many runners. It’s easy to get worked up and psyched out looking at the forecast, especially on a destination race.
However, with the right mindset and preparation, it can also be rewarding and memorable. We are bringing it back to the foundation of our running, knowledge, and intuition to share our best tips and strategies to help you navigate running in the rain on race day.
- Tip #1: Stay focused on your goals
It’s easy to get distracted by the rain and lose focus on your goals. However, it’s important to stay focused and remember why you are running in the first place. Whether you are running for a personal record or for a charity, keep your mind focused on your goals and push through the rain. This is when our mantras, favorite quotes, and feel-good vibes really come in handy. When the times get tough, we get tougher.
- Tip #2: Dress appropriately
The first and most important tip for running in the rain is to dress appropriately. You want to make sure that you are comfortable and protected from the rain. This means wearing a waterproof jacket or a lightweight rain poncho, waterproof shoes or covers, and a hat or visor to keep the rain out of your face. It’s also a good idea to wear moisture-wicking clothing to help keep you dry. Your electronics and fuel may need to “dress appropriately” as well, as Florida-based runners and coaches, we have found there may be nothing better than Ziploc sandwich bags for your cell or pocket items.
PRO TIP: Even though the sun may not be out, a pair of sunglasses or cheap glasses with clear frames can help keep those small raindrops from getting in your eyes as well.
- Tip #3: Adjust your pace
Running in the rain can be slippery and more difficult than running in dry conditions. Therefore, it’s important to adjust your pace accordingly. Don’t push yourself too hard and risk injury. Instead, slow down and focus on maintaining a steady pace. Remember, it’s better to finish the race safely than to risk injury and not finish at all. With the opposite of dream race conditions, this may be a realistic time to move to your “B” goal and leave the PR attempt for another race.
- Tip #4: Stay positive
Running in the rain can be mentally challenging, but it’s important to stay positive. Instead of focusing on the negative aspects of the rain, focus on the positive. For example, the rain can help keep you cool and refreshed during the race. Also, remember that everyone is running in the same conditions, so you are not alone. Maybe even take a water break and snap one of your own Power Selfies!
- Tip #5: Embrace the experience
Finally, embrace the experience of running in the rain. Running in the rain can be a unique and memorable experience that you will remember for years to come. Take the time to appreciate the beauty of the rain and the unique atmosphere it creates during the race. Chat with your fellow runners, offer encouragement to one another, and get ready for one heck of a race day story.
By borrowing from the saying “Turn that frown upside down”, utilizing our tips above, and turning those rain clouds to create your own sunshine and rainbows, you can take a drab day and make it FAB!