5 Tips for Summertime Golf
Summertime golf is the best and I’m sure I’m not the only one who thinks so…longer days, warmer temperatures, and lots of lush greenery surrounding us…it truly is the season of growth. If you’re a gardener in the Northeast, this is the season of growth and harvest. It’s a wonderful time for golfers to grow and see the fruits of their labor as well! All summer dreaminess aside, golfing in the summer needs to be treated seriously because it’s an outdoor sport that requires the attention and care of other outdoor sports. Even if you’re riding in a golf cart and don’t feel like you’re exerting yourself as much as a golfer walking the course, you most certainly are. Here are 5 tips for staying cool, safe, and healthy during summertime golf.
Stay hydrated: bring plenty of water with you, whether your practicing or out on the course. Consider bringing hydration products like Nuun or Liquid IV to replace electrolytes throughout your time out in the sun. Take sips of your water or hydration drink even if you don't feel thirsty. I can NOT stress this enough. Even if you are not thirsty, you must KEEP DRINKING!
Protect Yourself from the Sun: The sun can be intense during the summer months, so take measures to protect yourself. Wear sunscreen with a high SPF, wear a hat or visor to shield your face, and consider wearing lightweight, breathable clothing that covers your skin to prevent sunburn. You may start your round really early in the morning and not think of bringing sunscreen because it’s cool and the heat of the day hasn’t hit the course yet, but it will and you’ll need to be ready.
Time Your Rounds: Try to schedule your tee times for early mornings or late afternoons when temperatures are generally cooler. Avoid playing during the peak heat hours of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., to minimize exposure to extreme heat.
Adjust Your Game: Hot weather can impact your golf game. Take into account that the ball may travel farther in hot conditions due to reduced air density. Adjust your club selection accordingly and be mindful of the impact on distance and shot trajectory. Additionally, hot weather can make the greens faster, so adapt your putting stroke and pace accordingly.
Stay Cool and Comfortable: Dress in lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing to help you stay cool and comfortable on the course. Consider using cooling towels or accessories that provide relief from the heat. Take breaks in the shade when needed to cool down and rest between shots. Shade is very underestimated by too many golfers, ask your friends in southern regions about the benefits of shade.
If you’ve got any other tips you’d like to share with our golf community, please share them below!
Fore the love of golf,
Ryan
