How to Trail Run in the Rain

A little wet weather is no reason to stay inside. If you dress right and watch your step, the trail is yours.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Trail Running Shorts
• Trail Running Socks
• Trail-running Shoes
• Running Foods (gels And Bars)

1. Wear appropriate wet-weather clothing, including waterproof gloves, a hat and a waterproof shell. Choose high-tech fabrics instead of cotton, which retains moisture. Wear layers, and adjust your level of insulation according to your increasing body heat.

2. Wear heavy-traction trail-running shoes, which have the gripping power necessary for clinging to slippery trails. Regular road shoes are not appropriate.

3. Try to choose trails with no stream crossings. Even if the streams don't flood, they may prove difficult to cross.

4. Drink water or sports drinks as you run, to avoid becoming dehydrated.

5. Take care when running up or down steep hills. Rain can make an otherwise easy ascent or descent slippery and dangerous.

6. Slow down on muddy or slippery sections.

7. Beware of slick rocks, roots and grassy sections of the trail.

8. Stay on the trail, even if it's muddy. Straying from the trail leads to unnecessary erosion and injures vegetation.

9. Dry off immediately after your run. Put on warm, dry clothes before your body chills.

Tips & Warnings

• Budget more time when you run a trail in the rain. Your pace will be slower if the trail is muddy or slick.
• Trail running is a physically demanding sport. If you have any condition that would impair or limit your ability to engage in physical activity, please consult a physician before attempting this activity. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Tired of Being Tired? Fight Fatigue and Try FRS for FREE!