Just for Fun: 10 Reasons to Run in the Rain

 
The rainiest March on record for New York City has inspired me to come up with ten awesome reasons to run in the rain. So without further delay, here they are:

1.      You can run for miles and miles and have most of the road/trail to yourself.
2.      When you come back covered in mud you feel even more hard core than you would after a dry run.
3.      When you tell people (specifically non-runners) that you went for a run in bad weather (bonus points if the wind gusts were over 40mph or there were significant downpours) they think you are really committed and even more awesome. They could also just think you're crazy... but that's OK too.
4.      You get to puddle jump like when you were a kid… you’re already wet anyway, right?
5.      Sweat, what sweat? It's just rain water! ;-)
6.      The road has an odd mirrored effect which makes your shadow/reflection look pretty cool.
7.      When you do pass the occasional runner or cyclist there is a good chance they will smile at you and you might even get the occasional thumbs up or “Way to go!”
8.      You won’t get overheated like your would on a dry day and no need to carry water, just open your mouth towards the sky.
9.      You are never tempted to start walking or slow down just to “take a break for a minute”-- You will get to your warm, dry home faster if you speed up (read: brand new personal record).
10.  When you get home you have never been happier to have a nice, long, hot shower. 

Bonus Reason: You are NOT on the treadmill!*

So get outside, even if it is raining. In fact, enjoy all your outdoor activities in the rain, be they hiking, soccer, baseball, running or just a nice trip outside for puddle jumping. 

*Many thanks to Chris M. for the bonus reason!