8 Reasons to Love Running in the Rain

This rainy spring has made it challenging to be an outdoor runner. We've had so much rain that I've had to make the tough decision of heading out into the rain, skipping my run, or taking it to the treadmill. On a cold, windy day, the decision is somewhat easier because running in the cold rain is really unpleasant. I've run in all conditions and a cold, rainy run is probably tops of my list of uncomfortable things I try to avoid.

Several times this month, I've been caught in a warm rain shower while running. Running in a warm rain is a completely different experience than a cold rain. As long as it's not pouring, which can be downright painful, running in the rain on a warm day can be wonderful.

Not so sure? Here are 8 reasons to love running in the rain.

Rain will cool you off. 
On a hot day, running in the rain will cool you off. You will be able to go farther, longer, and maybe even faster! I got caught in the rain while out on a run this week and had one of the best runs I've had in a long time.

Rain makes you tough.
Running in the rain can be mentally tougher than running on a nice day. If you've ever been caught in a downpour, which hurts a lot, or if you've run in a cold rain, you know what I am talking about.  Running in tough conditions prepares you for anything.

I ran this entire 10 miler in 40 degrees and rain.
What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, right?

Rain can help you burn fat.
You might burn more calories: Studies have shown that running in a cold rain requires more effort that can burn more fat. All that shivering.

Rain washes away the bugs.
On my run this week, I ran on the bike path and through multiple large clouds of gnats. Ick. Once it started raining, voila! no more gnats. Same goes for mosquitos. Have you ever been bitten by a yellow jacket on the run? I have and trust me when I tell you they don't hang around in the rain. It's all good.

Rain chases the cyclists away.
I do a lot of my runs on shared fitness paths. As we all know, cyclists can be a little cavalier, riding too fast or too close. Last week I had a close call on the path when I veered around a puddle to the middle of the path and was nearly taken down by a passing cyclist who failed to call out a warning to me. When it rains, the cyclists don't come out. Winning!

Rain is a free shower.
I know we all joke about this, but on a hot, humid run, nothing feels better than the rain washing away all the sweat and stink. Your running clothes will be cleaner too!

On a marathon training run in 2015. Cool and clean.

Rain washes away all your troubles.
There's something meditative about the sound of rain, isn't there? If you're running in the rain, turn off your music and listen to the raindrops hitting the ground. Rain is hypnotic and calming. You'll find yourself settling into a groove and relaxing into the run. Maybe we should listen to rain sounds all the time when we run!

Rain can be fun!
Instead of being annoyed by the rain, embrace it! Personally, I enjoy jumping over the puddles. I don't like getting my feet wet, so the challenge of leaping over the puddles is fun for me! You'll also use different muscles. If you're worried about getting your feet wet, wear wicking socks. I have plenty of recommendations for you...

What good is running in the rain? There are 8 things that I can think of! /via @oldrunningmom #runchat #running 

Do you like running in the rain or do you avoid it at all costs? 

I'm linking up with Fridays with Fairytales and Fitness.