By Kerry, Owner of Polka Dot Races
It’s February, it’s dark, it’s grey… and yes, it’s raining again, seriously it’s been raining every day so far in 2026 – We have to love the UK weather.
Do I love running in the rain? Love might be a strong word. But do I feel smugly invincible afterwards? Absolutely.
There’s something about getting out there when it would be far easier to stay under a blanket with a cuppa and cake watching Netflix!
The rain tapping on the window, and your trainers look at you like, “Surely not today?” Not another day of dirt and wet….. and yet… you go.
Admittedly, Merlot needing his walk is a huge motivator. He does not care that it’s sideways rain most of the time, he does not care that it’s February.
Those big “let’s go!” eyes are surprisingly persuasive and the zoomies when he see my trainers…never see such excitement for a run ha, sometimes I think he’s my personal accountability coach… just with muddier paws.
Here are a few more motivators that get me out:
Run with friends
Once you’ve committed to meet someone, staying home feels impossible. Misery in the rain is way more fun with company — and bonus: you can complain together and boy we do
Don’t put pressure on the run
You don’t need a PB. Tell yourself it’s just 20 minutes, steady pace, once you’re out, you’ll probably do more and quicker as lets face it you want to get home again.
Wear the right gear.
Waterproofs, layers, a cap for your face. Cold and soggy is optional — looking like you actually planned this run is mandatory, however I always end up de-layering – anyone else?
Enjoy the kudos.
That post-run buzz, the rosy cheeks, the satisfaction of knowing you actually did it — pure gold. Trust me, your future self (and your hot shower) will thank you.
Lastly, just enjoy those puddles, the likeliness is that you are going to get wet and dirty so you may as well splash in those puddles and enjoy that moment of carefree fun.
Winter wet miles build toughness, make spring races glorious, and give you stories to tell. So lace up, grab a friend (or Merlot equivalent), and show the rain who’s boss.
Kerry x
