If there’s one thing all runners can agree on, it’s the pivotal role weather can play. Sure, temperature and humidity matter during a run; after all, the cooler it is, the faster we can go. But today I’m talking about the tangible gifts Mother Nature showers us with, quite literally. I’m speaking of heavy rain, snow, and winds; often times referred to by runners (ok, just me) as the “triple threats of bad running weather.” That really doesn’t roll off the tongue, does it?
They’re the weather conditions we dread, from the moment we see them in the forecast to the second we spot them outside our window. Sometimes, inclement weather is so daunting, it makes us even rethink taking that first step outside. Runners are some of the toughest people, mentally and physically, but in poor running weather conditions, we’re never weaker.
Storm in a teacup
In unpleasant running weather, the running experience starts long before we leave the comfort of our home. In the minutes, often hours, leading up to the run, we’re bargaining with ourselves, looking for a way to skip the run when staying on the couch or in bed seems like the only acceptable option.
After all, how can we be expected to handle getting rained on when we’re already going to be soaked from our beads of sweat? And we couldn’t possibly be expected to bear wind gusts when we’re busy dealing with unruly drivers, aggressive bicyclists, and oblivious pedestrians on the wrong side of the road. What’s more, how could we feasibly run through snow when we’re already traversing cracked concrete, potholes, mud, technical trails, and uneven terrain?
“Runners are some of the toughest people, mentally and physically, but in poor running weather conditions, we’re never weaker.”
The sunny side of things
Despite all the complaining, second-guessing, and stressing we do about something we can’t control, ironically, we can sometimes end up feeling happier and more fulfilled after these runs. Chalk it up to exceeding lowered expectations, perhaps. Or maybe it stems from the greater sense of accomplishment we feel after exerting more energy to overcome an obstacle. But, in the voice of the narrator of ESPN’s 30 for 30 documentary series: “What if I told you, that with a simple change of perspective, you could feel good during and after most bad-weather runs.” The key is to accept Mother Nature’s gracious gifts with open arms.
Consider this: Snow-covered terrain is our art canvas. Rainwater is our cleanser and puddles are our mirrors. And the leaves on tree branches waving in the wind are our crowd support, cheering us on as we face those nasty headwinds. Who needs tailwinds, anyway?
Accept the winds of change
Skip the urge to drop your head to avoid the cold winds hitting your face; instead, pick your head up with a smile and wave to your gracious tree-spectators. They’re out there braving the cold too. With nasty 30 mph winds, it may seem like the leaves on the branches are giving you the middle finger, but it’s actually just their index finger signifying that “you’re number 1!” And, sure, these heavy wind gusts will make it feel like you’re running in place, but at least you’re moving! Plus, you’re getting in some nice wind-resistance training; you never know how blustery it’ll be on race day.
“Sure, the 30 mph wind gusts will make it feel like you’re running in place, but at least you’re moving!”
The perfect (snow)storm
Instead of cursing out the snow for altering your running form due to decreased traction, praise its beauty and create an artform — turn the road or trail into your running portrait with each footprint as your brushstroke. Not the artsy type? Be a trailblazer and create your own path for other runners to literally follow in your footsteps; they’ll be thankful for the “beaten path.” If nothing else, the fluffy white stuff will make for a pretty photo on your Instagram profile. No one has to know you were absolutely miserable on the run.
Don’t take a rain check
The next time you’re trying to dodge a puddle of rain, take a second or two to observe the puddle’s reflections of the trees, sky, and even your own killer outfit — after all, you dawdled long enough selecting the right attire and getting dressed in all those layers!
In the summer, cool off from the disgusting humidity with delightful drops from nature’s shower. Didn’t get a chance to do laundry this week? Everyone knows fresh rainwater is the most natural (and sustainable) way of cleaning your clothes. Ok, it might not clean them, but at least it will get out all those nasty stains — blood, sweat, and tears included. Hopefully you experience neither the former nor latter of those on your runs. (What’s the term for the middle item in a series of three things?)
No chasing rainbows
Of course, just like with everything in life, there are exceptions. While the odds of winning the lottery and getting hit by lightning are often closely associated, you’re far more likely to get struck than to strike Powerball gold. Leave the lightning bolts to your speed.
Oh, and when it comes to frozen roads, there’s really no running shoe (trail shoes included) with the right tread for ice. Tread forward on the treadmill.
“The odds of winning the lottery and getting hit by lightning are often closely linked, but you’re likelier to get “struck” than strike Powerball gold. Leave the lightning bolts to your speed.”
Just as a basketball player uses the triple threat position to attack a defender, a runner can use an open mind to attack the “triple threats of bad running weather.” I’ve really got to work on a catchier phrase for that.
So, how will you make the best of Mother Nature’s worst? Go check the forecast!
