Tips for keeping cool on the golf course

Acting like a hothead on the golf course isn’t exactly synonymous with rising temperatures. Sure, excessive heat can certainly instigate a few summertime temper tantrums during a round, which in turn could result in a world of problems for a golfer’s score. But when the effects of rising temperatures on the body are left unchecked, they can cause even more damage to the actual golfer.

While watching heated golfers throw their clubs into the nearest pond or wooded area might warrant a chuckle or two, overheating on the golf course is no laughing matter. If you want to play better golf in challenging temperatures – all while remaining upright and healthy through your round – then consider these effective ways to help you stay cool this summer on the golf course.

1. Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated on the golf course can’t be stressed enough, making the intake of plenty of fluids the best way to beat the heat this summer. And by fluids, we don’t mean caffeinated or alcoholic beverages. Maintaining proper hydration ensures your body is performing at optimal levels throughout your round. If you want to play your best this summer, make sure you are drinking at least 64 ounces of water a day at a minimum, on top of drinking water or sports drinks when you can between holes. We suggest bringing a cooler onto the course to keep drinks cold and you hydrated.
2. Reduce exposure to harmful UV rays. There’s not much you can do about high temperatures on a given day, but there are ways to keep the sweltering summer sun from sapping every bit of energy from your exposed skin. Make sure to keep plenty of sunblock in your golf bag, and to reapply it at least once during your round. Using sunscreen with other sun blockers such as a wide-brim golf hat or golf cap will further keep harmful UV rays at bay. UV rays can also be harmful to the eyes, and a glaring guestimate into the blinding distance is the last thing your game needs, so make sure to bring your vented sunglasses, too.
3. Wear loose-fitting clothing. Loose-fitting clothing is essential to staying comfortable in the summer heat. Making sure that occasional winds and air can circulate between you and your clothes will help keep you dry. If you’re looking for even more cool clothing options, consider purchasing golf apparel with moisture-wicking technology. These garments help to remove the moisture and sweat from your body as you play, which will keep you from getting bogged down by heavy, sweaty clothing during your round.
4. Conserve your energy. If you’re playing golf in triple-digit temperatures, then you’re going to need every bit of energy you can muster. That’s why it’s crucial you don’t overdo it on the golf course. Concentrate on saving your energy for your swings, chips, and putts, while avoiding rushing around to get from hole to hole. Walk slowly, take your time, and you’ll endure the summer sun just fine.
5. Stay in the shade. Okay, we know that’s easier said than done, but it’s worth keeping in mind on sweltering days on the course. Every second of exposure to the sun further drains your body of vital fluids and energy, so treat the act of finding shade on the course like a game. If you’re riding in a cart, you’ve got plenty of shade to sit in while you wait for others, and if you’re on the cart path, then you should have no trouble parking under the shade of fairway trees. You came to play golf, no doubt, so you can’t spend all day away from the sun. Just remember if you’re feeling dizzy or lightheaded, taking a break with some water under the pines while others play through is a smart idea.

If you’re going to stay cool in the heat this summer, you’re going to need to remember some basics: drink plenty of water, wear loose-fitting clothing, stock up on sunscreen and avoid alcohol. Getting in a round when the mercury’s rising can be an enjoyable experience, but can also be dangerous if not taken seriously. Make sure you’re hydrated, shaded, and mentally prepared for a hot day on the course, and you’ll have no trouble heating up your game, all without breaking a sweat.