Chris Blattman

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Is it better to walk or run in the rain?

I have actually wondered this many times. Now I have the scientifically-supported answer:

(Corrected the embedded video)

From the excellent Minute Physics.

22 Responses

  1. Long time ago I read a study where researchers were trying to answer this question by weighing their clothes after running or walking in the rain. They concluded running was better.

  2. In theory, yes this is true. But in practice? This video is assuming that the shape of your body does not change between walking and running. However, it may be possible that while running, your legs extend further in front and behind you, and so more “vertical” rain falls on them. I can think of other potentially confounding factors too. It’ll take more than this thought experiment to convince me!

  3. But if you run you’ll likely kick up more rain from puddles which will make the bottom of your trousers wet….if you’re wearing trousers.

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