Running shoes? Check. Uniform? Check. Water? Plenty! So, today I have a cross country meet, and it is currently pouring down rain. This brought me to the perfect topic idea which is how to prepare for a run on a rainy day and what to do when you finish the run.

I am sure that you've all heard that running in the rain makes you sick. Well, that's a myth. The truth is that it is staying in wet clothing and getting a chill that makes you sick. So, to prepare for your run, you should just do what you normally do. Wear the same clothing that you normally would, although you might want to wear another layer. It is important, though, to not overdress. Run the same distance that you normally would. The only thing that you should do differently is to take a hot shower when you get home and get into warm dry clothing. This will help to keep you from getting sick.

I learned this lesson when I began cross country. Like most people, I was under the impression that if I ran in the rain, I would catch a cold. One morning, I went outside, and it was raining. I decided to get ready and go to practice, but I was sure we would be inside. When I showed up, the coach told us where we were going. I raised my hand and asked her if she was serious. She said,  "Yes."  I then said, "Well isn't this a good way to get sick?"

Our coach, a very experienced marathon runner, looked at us and said, "That is all a myth. The truth is that running in the rain and staying in wet clothing is what makes you sick." From that day forward, I ran in the rain without concerns but made sure to shower and bundle up as soon as I got home. So, if you feel like running today ,but the weather is turning you away,  get out there and run! Just remember to go home and shower and get into warm, dry clothes. Tell me about your experiences with the rain and if the advice worked for you. Thanks for reading!!


Pictures courtesy of:
http://www.livestrong.com/article/211495-the-best-hats-for-running-in-the-rain/
http://smashinguniverse.com/30-pictures-of-people-in-the-rain/