Daily wisdom: run in the rain

According to a recent survey conducted by Running USA, 35 percent of runners decide against hitting the pavement when it's "too rainy."

Those 35 percent should toughen up. Even running in a downpour isn’t a no-go*, says New York City-based running coach Melanie Kann. Consider adjusting your workout rather than skipping it. For example, if you're training for an event like a marathon, it’s fine to swap in an easy day for a harder workout when it’s raining, she says. Also, there's no guarantee of perfect weather on race day, so running in the rain could be good practice. Some advice from Kann to make the experience a little more comfortable:

1. Wear moisture-wicking materials close to your skin.
2. Skip the waterproof rain jacket; it will hold in your sweat and potentially make you feel even soggier.
3. Use a lubricating substance like Body Glide, as you may experience more chafing than usual due to wet garments.
4. Wear a hat or visor to keep water out of your eyes.
5. Seal your cell phone in a plastic sandwich bag.
6. If it’s raining on race day, try bagging your feet in plastic shopping bags until just before the gun, so you’re not standing around with damp feet in the corral.

*Here’s when you should stay indoors: "When rain is combined with thunder, lightning, or excessive winds, it’s too unsafe to run out there,” Kann cautions. Also, “If you find yourself altering your gait in any way to handle slippery surfaces or dodge puddles, then it’s best to scrap the workout [or get on the treadmill],” she says.

Unless there’s a major storm, Kann recommends going with the old “you’re not going to melt” mindset and sticking to your outdoor running plans.