Piecing mojo-inducing snippets together from google to make running in the rain a pleasure to look forward to, not run away from.

The weather news draws a sad face among the runners. Most of the runners don't like running in the rain. Just fast forward to the end of the run and your mind is awash with imagery of the soggy socks, dirty shoes, flooded and slippery roads. It makes you cringe. Rain makes it harder to run and it lessens your mileage for the week. The increased possibility for rainy, wet conditions might make most runners take their routine indoors. However, with the right precautions, runners can keep up their outdoor running even on rainy days. They may even find the rain a refreshing change. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Create a natural moisture-wicking layer: Rub a bit of baby oil on your arms and legs to stop the water from sitting on you. This will help the water to rolls off instead.

• Choose your fabrics carefully: It's best to avoid cotton, it just soaks up the water. There are plenty of synthetic tops you can get that don't hold the water.

• Keep your feet dry: If your feet are prone to blisters or feeling cold in the rain, try lambswool socks. Your feet won't stay dry but they will be warm and the socks won't rub. Cotton socks are a no-no. Get yourself some waterproof trainers. If you don't want to buy a whole new pair, just use an old pair.
  
  
• Pop a hat on: Wear a head cover that will keep your head dry. A peaked hat is a good way to keep the water off your face but do buy a lightweight one. Try and look out for a waterproof top that has air vents built into it.
  
  
• Don't forget to safeguard your gadgets: If you carry a mobile phone then put it inside something waterproof like a zip food bag to protect it.
  
  
• Avoid puddles when possible: Stomping through standing water is fun but that puddle could be deeper than you think and a spraining an ankle is not much fun at all.
  
  
• Slow down your pace: When running in the rain you don't feel as hot which might tempt you to run hard. Don't. You drive more cautiously during a down pour. It's good to use the same judgement when running in the rain.
  
  
• Do not run fast against the wind: Be aware of how windy weather can affect your running. Slow down when running in a strong wind. You are spending six percent more oxygen than in ordinary conditions. Running slower while against the wind will give you the same benefits as when you run fast during normal conditions. When you begin your work out, try to run against the wind, so that during your return you have the wind to your back and are not fighting to run against it when you are more tired.
  
  
• Stay Hydrated: Despite the cold weather, you'll still heat up and lose fluids through sweat. Cold air also has a drying effect, which can increase the risk of dehydration. Make sure you drink water or a sports drink before, during, and after your run.
  
  

Run in rain just for the pure enjoyment of it! Everything sounds different in the rain. You will love the sound of rain hitting the canopy of trees. Things even smell different in the rain and they certainly feel different. It's OK to get soaked to the core. If you haven't done it, try it.

Happy quacks!

Thank you Ravish Taori!

Yes, you read that correct! Never think you know it all.
 I have been laid up on the sofa reading Runners World and all manner of running books. Bit of a tease especially as I can't get out there!

It is also now 5 days before the Shinfield 10km and I still have lungs full of sand, and a throat full of feathers. It would be a suicide mission to run it, especially as it is for Ged and the The British Heart Foundation. A poorly body doesn't need the extra strain on the heart for a run! So eat my words and practise what I preach. It's a no show.

Plus I do already have a condition that doesn't lend itself to extra strain on the body - High Blood Pressure - the silent killer. Medication helps it but I shouldn't abuse that saving grace.

Another good reason to make sure I recover is I have the Forces March in 21 days! That's 5 marathons in 5 days!

So, reminders -

Running is good because -

Whatever your age: exercise is good for you. Regular exercise gives you the following benefits:

• # You will have more energy
• # You will decrease your chances of getting a heart disease
• # You will decrease your chances of getting cancer
• # You will sleep better and feel more alert
  
• #You will lose weight
  

Before you start your running program, visit the doctor. This is always a good idea, but especially in case of the following conditions:

• # Overweight
• # Heart problems
• # Completely untrained
• # Breathing problems
• # Chronic fatigue
• # Age over forty

Hey, better safe than sorry !

Know your goals, keep a running diary, start slow, listen to your body. If you feel dizzy, tired or hungry STOP! Remember to REST and RECOVER!

Never be afraid to ask for help. Find a running a programme to suit you and your goals.
Make every step count; if you aren't smiling then you aren't getting the buzz. If you aren't sweating you aren't making the effort. Why not run with a buddy or a club. Always good for comradery, advice and helping you improve your technique.

But above all switch the running around. Try new routes and different terrains. Get proper fitted trainers and trainers suitable for the terrain. Remember to cross train - swim, dance, row, cycle, walk .. you wouldn't eat the same meal over and over!

A good compliment to this running and training is to eat a healthy diet. Runners can only lose weight if they don't keep carbing up ;0)