Playing golf during the Summer season.

When training for summer golf it is important everyone remembers to be as equally prepared for the hot weather as they are for the cold and wet winters.

Golfers these days tend to be much more “sun smart” and aware of the hazards of our Nation's harsh rays however sometimes they neglect to take care of the body’s inner needs.

Play Early 

If your schedule allows it, tee off early so that you can avoid having to golf during the highest temperatures of the day. The earlier you can start, the cooler the temperatures will be. Besides, who could say no to a little early-morning dew?

Another perk of hitting the course early is that there’s likely to be less people around, so you can take your time and really get a feel for the course.

Maintain Your Fluids 

• The main reason people collapse is because they do not drink enough water!!! 
• Always drink BEFORE you feel thirsty to prevent dehydration.
• 
Carry at least one large bottle of water, preferably with ice.
• 
Salt solutions may help to replace sweat and prevent muscle cramps.
• Maintaining your electrolyte levels is also important, so make sure you bring a sports drink with you as well. This way you can play your best and make the most of your time on the course.

 Do not drink alcohol during the game as this will promote dehydration 

Use Cooling Towels & Gels

Just as there is moisture-wicking clothing on the market, you’ll also find cooling products as well. During the summer days on the course, a cooling towel or two is a must. These towels are a great way to wick away sweat, or for placing on the back of your neck, on your upper back, or across your belly to lower your body temperature.

When you aren’t using your cooling towel, make sure it’s stored in a cold area.

Aside from a cooling towel, there are also cooling gels made just for golfers. Look for a gel that contains aloe and eucalyptus and apply it behind your ears as well as in the crooks of your elbows and knees. This will help to keep your core at a comfortable temperature for the upcoming 18 holes.

Hats and Clothing


Clothes should be:

• Loose to allow air evaporation and circulation 
• Lightweight material eg: cotton.
• 
Light in colour to reflect the sun’s rays

Your hat should have: 

A wide brim (wind permitting)

Training for Summer Golf. continued

A light coloured exterior surface to reflect light
Dark coloured lining to prevent reflection of light onto your face
Protect your neck from the sun to prevent sunburn and heat absorption Wear a shirt with a collar and use sun screens

Exposure to Heat and Light 

Apply 15+ sun screen before venturing onto the course.

• It is most effective if applied 15 minutes before going outside
•    Replace the sun screen during the game to ensure adequate 
coverage 

•    Acclimatize yourself to prepare your body for a game in the heat 

•    If you have not played for some time DO NOT play your first game in temperatures above 
of 32 degrees Centigrade 

•    Temperatures of 32 degrees are more dangerous because they are close to our body 
temperature and make the cooling process more difficult to achieve. (This risk is increased by higher humidity) 

• Try to stay in the shade as much as possible and walk on green grassy areas to minimize reflection of sunlight from the ground.

Keep Cool During the Game 

• It is important to keep your body temperature down
• 
Drink plenty of cool fluids

• Use a damp towel or water to keep your neck and head cool by promoting evaporation

Make Allowances for your Level of Fitness & Any Underlying Illness 

   If you have a heart or lung condition, remember to carry and use your medication. 


   It is worth carrying a record of your condition and or medication, so that if anything does 
happen to you, the people attending can be informed. 


First Aid Treatment for a Heat Affected Victim 

•    If you feel short of breath or have pain or burning in the
chest, arms, back or jaw, stop walking and rest (if possible in the shade) until help arrives To continue may be fatal! 

•    Lay the person down in the shade 

•    Remove excess clothing 

•    Cool the person by placing water or damp towels onto the skin 

•    If the person is not drowsy encourage them to drink small amounts of cool water often 

•    Encourage the person to return to the clubhouse immediately, to lie down, rest and 
replenish their fluids 

•    Remember it is dangerous to continue to play in hot conditions in a dehydrated state. 


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Take Up Indoor Golf

Sometimes, the heat can just be too much. On those days when the temperatures are unbearable, your best bet to be completely safe from the heat is indoor golf. By golfing indoors, you can enjoy being in a cool environment where weather isn’t a factor.

What’s even better is that you can enjoy indoor golf at your home with a high-quality golf simulator. Various facilities are available throughout Tokyo and regional locations. With virtual golf, you can continue to show your love of sport, without having to worry about the summer heat.

Additional details strategies

To stay cool while playing golf in hot climates, focus on hydration, appropriate clothing, and utilizing shade and cooling accessories. Hydrate with plenty of water and electrolytes, wear light-colored, breathable clothing, and seek shade during breaks. Consider early or late tee times to avoid the hottest part of the day.             Detailed Strategies:     

• Hydration: Drink water and electrolyte-rich beverages frequently throughout your round to replace fluids lost through sweat.

•  Appropriate Attire: Wear light-colored, loose-fitting, and moisture-wicking clothing to stay cool and comfortable.
•  Sun Protection: Use sunscreen with a high SPF, and reapply regularly, especially if sweating. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for added protection.
•  Utilize Shade: Take advantage of any shade available on the course, such as trees or golf cart shelters, to cool down during breaks.
•  Cooling Accessories: Consider using cooling towels or neck wraps, and keep them wet with cold water for a refreshing effect.
•  Tee Time Strategy: Schedule your tee time early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the peak heat of the day.
•  Pace of Play: Be mindful of your pace and avoid rushing, as this can increase sweating and heat build-up.
•  Listen to Your Body: Take breaks when needed and don't push yourself too hard in extreme heat. If you start to feel unwell, seek shade and hydrate immediately.
•  Personal Cooling: A personal fan or cooling towel can provide localized cooling relief during your round.
•  Electrolytes: Replenish electrolytes lost through sweat by drinking sports drinks or using electrolyte tablets.
•  Glove Management: Consider removing your golf glove between shots to allow your hand to cool down