It can get pretty hot on the golf course, especially in the summer! If you’re like me, all that heat can really start to mess with your game after a while. Being dehydrated on the course lowers your energy levels and causes fatigue.
Here are my tips to stay hydrated and beat the heat out on the course:
1.Hydrate the night before
If the weather for your round plans on being toasty, drink plenty of water the night before you play.
2.Be Prepared
Bring your own water or stock up at the golf course pro shop or restaurant
3.Wear a Hat
Shield your face from the sun by wearing a hat on the course
4.Drinks with Electrolytes
When you start heavily sweating, your body needs to replenish itself with electrolytes. Find a low sugar, quality sports drink to fill the void
5.Wear Light Golf Shirts
Make sure you are wearing light, polyester shirts that wick away moisture
6.Avoid Diuretics
Yes, I know it’s nice to have a special drink on the course but drinks like alcohol, coffee and soda will only add to your dehydration
7.Bring a Wet Towel
Bring a towel to the course that you can pour water on and cool your body. It’s best to put in on your neck when waiting to take your next shot
8.Wear Sunscreen
Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by wearing sunscreen. By not absorbing all of the sun’s rays, you will be less likely to become dehydrated
9.Use Sunglasses
Sunglasses protect your eyes from the sun and help you see the course better. Deflecting sun-rays from your face will help keep you cool.
10.Drive a Golf Cart
While walking the golf course is great exercise, you can become overly dehydrated if walking on a hot day. Rent a golf cart instead so you can drive right up to your golf ball and not exert as much energy.
11.Locate the Beverage Cart
Most courses have a beverage cart that wanders the course on days that are overly hot. Be sure to purchase extra water or ice when they come around so that you can stay hydrated during the heat.
12.Swing Softer
If you are playing 18 holes in the sun, don’t over exert yourself! Save your energy by swinging softer on your shots.
13.Wait Under Shade
When waiting on a hole, make sure to hide under the shade of trees (if possible) to cool down from the sun.
14.Drink in Moderation
It’s best to sip your water rather than drink big gulps all at once. This keeps your body hydrated longer
15.Recover at the Turn
If you are playing 18 holes, take a break in the pro shop or restaurant to cool down your body. (Or stock up on some water)
Hopefully, this list gave you a few ideas! Learn how to play in the heat here!
Table of Contents