Staying cool is vital to a successful golf outing.
Golf In Bluffton is fun because of the game—it is social and it is outdoors. However, the outdoor part can mean hot temperatures and ruin your game, as well as your fun. Here are 18 tips to help you keep your cool during 18 holes and maybe lower your score, as well.
1. Golf carts have coolers on them. Items to put in the cart include:
Drinks with energy, electrolytes and vitamins
Small, damp towels that can be used to wipe your skin or place on your neck and face
Lotions and bug spray
A spray bottle with water for a quick refreshing spray
2. Wear loose-fitting clothing, preferably light in color. Long-sleeved shirts are a good idea.
3. Sunscreen applied before and during the round will protect and cool your skin.
4. Take your shoes off occasionally and wipe your feet down with the cool towel.
The cooling effect goes through the skin into your arteries and veins cooling blood circulating to other areas.
5. Hit the ball into the shady areas.
Oh, wait! Most of you already do that.
6. Wear a hat with a wide brim.
Some hats can be soaked in cool water without losing their shape.
7. Avoid caffeine and alcohol while on the course, as these will promote dehydration.
8. Bring a fan.
OK, I am joking. Consider the moving cart a fan with gentle breezes to keep you cool.
9. Eat a smart meal before the game.
10. During the round, enjoy small snacks of cold fruit or low-fat dairy products.
11. Play early.
There are tee times available at 6:45 a.m. allowing you to finish 18 holes by 10:45 a.m.
12. Golf is much more fun as a family or with a group of friends.
I suggest making lunch your big group meal. It is indoors, food digests better during the day and it allows for an early or late round of golf.
13. Play late.
Tee off between 4-5 p.m. to finish between 8-9 p.m.
14. Less is more.
Wear little to no makeup, accessories or jewelry and don’t forget to tie your hair up.
15. Wear golf shoes designed like sandals.
16. Wear sunglasses.
17. Play good golf!When playing well your emotions are calm which allows you to stay cool.
18. If your play makes you mad, then call a pro for golf lesson.
You will play better and keep you cool.
Remember golf is a skill. Apply these tips and have more fun!
Written by former PGA Touring Pro, Doug Weaver, the Director of Instruction at the Palmetto Dunes Golf Academy. He conducts “Where Does the Power Come From?,” a free hands-on interactive clinic and demonstration, every Monday at 4 p.m. For more information, call (843) 785-1138, (800) 827-3006 or go to palmettodunes.com.