It's easy to hide indoors when it's raining outside, but if you're planning an outdoor workout, consider braving the weather and doing it anyway. For starters, running around in the rain is really fun—see Drew Barrymore for proof—and can boost your endorphins and sense of wonder. (It also looks badass on social media—again, see Drew Barrymore for proof.)
Working out while it's raining can also be good for your health. An MIT study shows the air is cleaner just after rainfall, and also helps clear pollen that may trigger allergens. Rain can keep you from overheating in warmer temperatures, and it can even help you "lock into" an exercise rhythm or pace, thanks to rain's function as nature's "white noise."
Here's how to exercise in the rain safely, and have the absolute most fun when you do it.
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CHECK THE WEATHER REPORT FIRST
Working out during a rainy or snowy day is fun. Working out during a thunderstorm or wind storm is dangerous. Before heading out for a jog or power walk, check the weather to make sure you'll be safe, -
KNOW WHERE YOU'RE GOING
A rainy day isn't ideal for a long, meandering route. Stick to sidewalks and trails you know well, and stay in areas with good cell phone reception so you can call for a lift back home if needed. -
CONSIDER A BASEBALL HAT
Keep your visibility strong with a hat that keeps raindrops out of your eyes. (It can also help protect your earbuds from getting waterlogged!) -
WEAR TIGHT CLOTHES
Rain can make baggier clothes heavy, and also more likely to chafe. Stick with tighter fits like yoga shorts and performance sports bras to minimize skin discomfort. (Basically, if it passed your high school dress code, you probably don't want to wear it on this workout 😉 ) -
KEEP HYDRATING
It might feel like you're getting enough water because you're surrounded by rain, but guess what? You've still gotta drink before and after your workout to maintain healthy hydration. -
TREAD HEAVILY
Have a look at your sneaker soles. They should have raised ridges to ensure traction, even in wet dirt and on slick sidewalks. Otherwise, you might be prone to slipping, in which case, stay inside until conditions improve. -
GET DRY FAST
Working up a sweat in the rain is so fun, but once you're back indoors, change into dry clothes, socks, and underwear ASAP to fend off the chill and protect your skin from bacteria. You can also place balls of dry newspaper into your sneakers to help them dry faster, without using the energy of a clothing dryer!
