There’s no better way to prepare for Trials & Tribulations than by embracing the rain!
Walking in the rain can be an excellent way to get used to the elements, the mud, and the unpredictability of an outdoor challenge. Plus, there’s something beautifully peaceful about stepping outside when the world is tucked away indoors.
Here’s why deliberately walking in the rain—and through puddles—can be the perfect preparation for your challenge.
Get comfortable with mud and puddles
Trials & Tribulations is all about muddy trails, wet feet, and wading through ditches, so why not get used to it by seeking out rainy weather? When it rains, go for a walk and take every opportunity to step through puddles and muddy paths. It may feel unusual at first, but walking through wet and uneven ground helps you get a feel for the conditions you’ll face on the course.
Tip: Wear old trainers
Save your best shoes and instead wear a pair of old trainers that you don’t mind getting dirty. Not only will they get you used to the feel of wet, muddy shoes, but you’ll also be able to relax and focus on the experience without worrying about mess.
Enjoy the peace and quiet
One of the best things about going out in the rain is the quiet. Most people avoid being outdoors when it’s wet, which means you’ll likely have the path all to yourself. Walking in the rain is a unique chance to enjoy some peace and solitude, perfect for clearing your mind and focusing on your training goals. It’s a great time to build mental resilience, too, which will come in handy during the mud run.
Tip: Plan your walks around the forecast
Rainy days aren’t always frequent, so keep an eye on the weather forecast and look for days when rain is expected. Plan ahead and try to make the most of these wet-weather opportunities. Embracing the rain can be a fun challenge, and the novelty of it makes the experience even more enjoyable!
Boost your balance and strength
Walking through wet, slippery paths can help strengthen your balance and muscles. The ground is often uneven and muddy after rain, making each step a little more challenging. You’ll find that your legs have to work harder to keep you steady, and this is great training for the unpredictable terrain of your Trials & Tribulations adventure.
Tip: Seek out different terrains
If you can, look for a walking route with a mix of terrains, like grassy paths, muddy trails, or small hills. This variety will give you even better practice for the variety of surfaces in the Trials & Tribulations challenge. The more types of ground you experience, the more prepared you’ll be on the day.
Build resilience and enjoy the adventure
Going for a walk in the rain is about more than just physical training; it’s also a mental challenge. Stepping outside into less-than-ideal weather shows that you’re willing to embrace discomfort, an important part of completing your Trials & Tribulations challenge. The rain, the mud, and the puddles may feel challenging at first, but they’re also fun, especially with the right mindset.
Tip: Have a walking companion
Training is often more enjoyable with company, so consider inviting friends or your husband along for the walk. You’ll have some laughs as you splash through puddles together, and it’s a wonderful way to make memories and bond over a shared goal. The support and encouragement from each other will make the experience even more rewarding.
Health benefits of walking in the rain
Rainy-day walks aren’t just good for challenge training; they have physical and mental benefits too.
- Improved lung health: rain cleans the air of dust and pollen, making it fresh and easier to breathe, which can be especially nice for anyone with asthma or allergies.
- Increased calorie burn: walking in wet conditions takes a little more effort, meaning you burn more calories than you would on a dry day.
- Reduced stress: the sound of rain and the cool air can be surprisingly calming, helping to lower stress and clear your mind.
- Better skin hydration: the air is more humid when it rains, which can be soothing and hydrating for your skin.
Embrace the journey
Walking in the rain is an opportunity to fully embrace the Trials & Tribulations mindset before the big day. It allows you to step outside, face the elements, and prepare yourself mentally and physically for the adventure ahead. With each wet, muddy step, you’re building resilience, gaining confidence, and getting one step closer to feeling ready for the challenge.
So, next time you see rain on the forecast, grab your old trainers, and step outside. Each puddle and muddy path is a step toward the Trials & Tribulations finish line—so enjoy the journey, rain and all!