Playing golf is undoubtedly one of the best ways to enjoy the weather, especially during the summer and fall months. It’s also a great way to get exercise in today’s pandemic environment where social distancing is a key concern. But when hitting the links to improve your health, you need to ensure you’re careful as not to endanger your health. From dehydration to heatstroke, there are plenty of risks you need to be aware of when playing golf out in the summer sun.
Today, we’re going to guide you through the 11 top tips you need to know to keep your cool and stay healthy, happy, and safe during your time on the green.
Avoid Carbs
Hot golfing weather usually means it’s time for perfect BBQ weather but loading up on carbs before heading out onto the green can be a big no-no. Heavy food like junk foods will only weigh you down, make you hotter, and sap your energy.
More Water, Less Beer
While drinking beer can be a great way to enhance your golfing experience, the truth is that beer is scientifically more dehydrating that water, as are sodas and coffee. While it may seem like you’re drinking a lot of liquids, it’s not as hydrating as water, so maybe think about saving the beer till you’re in the bar afterwards.
Use Sunscreen
By far one of the most important points you’ll need to think about, use water-resistant sunscreen, usually an SPF30 or above at least one hour before heading onto the green. Don’t forget to reapply every hour to keep up the screen to ensure the minimal chances that you’re going to burn.
Wear Accessories
Hats and sunglasses are always a go-to option you’ll want to think about wearing because it’s so effective at keeping the sun off your skin. You can really do whatever you want here, from moisture-wicking hats to your favorite baseball caps. As long as the sun isn’t on your skin, you’re doing well.
Use a Fan
There are plenty of portable fan options out there for you to choose from and most are super-affordable and will cost you under $20. Get yourself one online or in any kind of office or outdoor store, and you’ll feel the effects instantly.
Golf Early
Since the hottest times in the day are in the middle of the day, it can be best to golf early in the day when its cooler. This is during the mornings, or even in the late evenings, depending on where you are in the world.
Keep Your Shirt On
While you may want to show off your rocking bod, the truth is that baring all on the green is going to get you burned after long periods of time exposed to the sun. Instead, opt for breathable fabrics like cotton, or even specialist moisture-wicking fabric tops and shorts
Light Clothes Over Dark Clothes
Hand in hand with the point above, light-coloured clothes, like yellows and whites, are far more capable of reflecting heat and light from the sun than dark-coloured clothes, like dark blues and blacks, that will soak up the heat and make you feel far hotter.
Educate on Heat Symptoms
It’s a good idea to know all about the signs of dehydration so if you do get caught out, you know the signs and how to deal with them. If you start feeling weak, have a headache, light-headed, tired, rapid heartbeat, dry mouth, or nausea, go inside and look after yourself!
Seek medical assistance if you require it!
Take Some Time Up
While you’ll want to make the most of the summer sun and want to catch as many rays as you can, it’s important that you take the time to rest as much as you can when you need to. When you feel like you need a break, don’t be afraid to take one.
Stay Shaded
On any course throughout the world, they’ll be areas of shade all over the course, so make sure you’re standing in them! If you can’t access shade but need to, don’t be afraid to sit in the buggy and catch the shade here until it’s your turn to putt!