How to Exercise in the Rain

When buying real estate, the saying goes: "location, location, location." When it comes to exercising in the rain, the key words are: "apparel, apparel, apparel." To get outside and get moving, follow these simple steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Waterproofing Products
• Dri-fit Sports Bras
• Long-sleeved Thermal Tops
• Microfiber Vests
• Polypropylene Socks
• Waterproof Hats
• Waterproof Rain Gears
• lightweight, waterproof athletic shoes
• jackets, breathable, reflective

1. Pay attention to the most important layer - the one closest to your body. Choose jog bras and underwear made with polypropylene, Dri-FIT, CoolMax or Gore-Tex fabrics, which wick water and sweat away from your skin.

2. Select clothing containing breathable fabrics to keep you dry and warm for your second layer - tights and tops - as well.

3. Choose a wind- and water-resistant jacket or vest for an outer layer, but avoid wearing a waterproof rain slicker, which will trap moisture and heat on the inside.

4. Go for an outer layer that's lightly colored or has reflective strips for added visibility, since running in the rain often means darker conditions.

5. Choose layered socks that contain the same moisture-transporting properties mentioned above.

6. Choose shoes with good traction, cushioning and, above all, waterproofing. You can buy shoes that are already waterproofed, or you can waterproof them yourself.

7. Look for the same breathable fabrics for your gloves and hat. Some exercisers prefer a hat with a bill (such as a baseball cap) to help keep the rain out of their eyes. Depending on the temperature, this can be a good option.

8. If you have to wait outside before the start of a race, a big trash bag with armholes cut out can help you stay dry before you exercise. Be sure to remove it once you begin.

Tips & Warnings

• Long-sleeved shirts or windbreakers are easy to tie around your waist. Vests can be unzipped if you become too hot.
• Do not exercise outside if the rain is accompanied by lightning or thunder.
• Always warm up before you head outdoors.
• Drink plenty of water; many people have a tendency to drink less than they should when it's raining.

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[kohuether]

on 4/18/2009 I had to train for a marathon in the middle of a rainy spring and summer. And I wanted to be regimented about my training! So I started to run in the rain. Great tips here. :)

[waheed1]

on 12/21/2008 I've found everything I needed at one place. I was fit for shoes and outfitted in really nice clothes that were pretty inexpensive. I thought i was going to be broke but I spent under two hundred dollars and was out in a half an hour. I'm not trying to promote any particular store, but for the same stuff i saved about 25% off everything and it was rite wear I work. the store is called RnJ discounters and is in downtown Bethesda.

[esoterica]

on 12/10/2008 Why is it that a waterproof jacket is bad but a garbage bag is ok? They both trap in heat and moisture!

on 8/8/2006 If you will be running in the rain or heavy fog/humidity, be sure to stretch thoroughly, especially being sure to reach your maximum range of motion. Be mindful not to readjust your clothes when you are done, unless they are markedly uncomfortable, at which point you should consider new exercise clothes. The reasoning behind this is that when you get outside and start moving, you will become wet (regardless of wearing special material/clothes or not) and your clothes will stick to you. If you stretch first, your clothes will already be in the places you need them to be so you can move as you want to.

on 6/30/2006 It is called the Sunshine Bra from Lululemon Athletica. It is great, it supports everything and keeps you in line. It is amazing. It even sops up sweat as soon as it hits your skin.