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Alan L. Hammond, GolfersMD News
May 24, 2010
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Ah, spring. The time of year when a young man’s fancy turns to…golf.
The gray, cold days of winter are fading away, and the warm spring days are here. The greens are getting greener, the fairways are becoming lush, and the rough is once again something to be avoided. But soon, the comfortable spring days will give way to the heat and humidity of the summer. What to do? You still have to play, right? Here are some tips from professionals with the English Ladies Golf Association on how to stay cool in the heat.
Hydration (play video)
• The number one rule when dealing with heat on the golf course is stay hydrated.
• Always keep a water bottle with you and fill it up at the various water cooler stations located around the course.
• Water and sports drinks are best, try to avoid sugary soft drinks that contain caffeine.
• Start hydrating before you head to the course.
• If you are prone to heavy perspiration, you may lose too much sodium. Add a little extra sodium (don’t go overboard) to your meals prior to your round.
• Make sure you keep drinking throughout your round.
• Avoid alcohol – beer and liquor will only contribute to your dehydration.
The Sun
• The sun is a wonderful thing, but it can cause lots of damage, too.
• Always apply a high-factor, non-oily sunscreen before your round, and keep applying it during your round.
• Wear sunglasses that provide protection against UV rays.
• Wear a hat.
• Flip your collar up to protect the back of your neck. Ignore your playing partners when they call you “The Fonz.”
Cool Down
• Take a cold shower before and after your round.
• Keep a cold towel on hand to use on your face and neck during your round.
• Pace yourself – keep your movements slow and measured.
Watch for Dehydration – Signs include:
• Headache
• Weakness
• Light-Headedness
• Irritability
• Thirst
• Muscle cramps
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of mental sharpness (Or: You just tried to hit your driver out of a bunker)
• Excessive heat on your head and neck
• A sharp decrease in your level of play
• If you see any of these signs, head for the clubhouse and cool off.
So, a hot day doesn’t mean you have to stay inside and play Tiger Woods on the PlayStation. Follow the advice above, and you’ll be having fun all summer long.
Source: English Ladies Golf Association (Englishladiesgolf.org).
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