Keeping cool on the golf course this summer is a daunting task. Here in Georgia for a week straight the temperatures have been between and 102 degrees. The die-hard golfers here still have been hitting the links. Even though we are still going to play golf during this time we need to keep cool. When temperatures reach record highs isn’t just about comfort. Dangerously high temperatures can result in heat-related illnesses ranging from heat cramps to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The following tips can help you keep cool all summer long while you are on the golf course.
1. If you are usually hitting the course during the high times during the day. Look at changing the time of day you go out. Take advantage of cooler times (early morning or late evening). If you can’t change the time of you play golf, split your play, play 9 holes rest at the club house for a while then finish your last 9 holes.
2. Wear loose-fitting clothing, preferably of a light color instead of the pants wear shorts.
3. Cotton clothing will keep you cooler than many synthetics. Nike and Adidas make great golf shirts that wick away moisture and keep you cool.
4. Fill a spray bottle with water and keep it in the refrigerator for a quick refreshing spray to your face after being on the golf course. Keep that in your bag or in a cooler on the back of your cart. Always keep your core temperature down.
5. Wear a hat - it keeps the burning sun off your head and protects your head too! If you find your hat makes your head hot then try pouring water in it before wearing it!
6. Use sunscreen to protect your skin.
7. Keep plastic bottles of water in the freezer; grab one when you’re ready to go course. As the ice melts, you’ll have a supply of cold water with you.
8. Some golfers swear by small, portable, battery-powered fans. We have seen some golfers with version that attaches to a water bottle that sprays a cooling mist.
9. Avoid caffeine and alcohol as these will promote dehydration.
10. If you are riding you can carry a cooler. Store some cool quick food. Cucumber is incredibly refreshing on a hot day, and so is melon, mango, banana and, of course, ice cream! On most course the food cart does not come by very often. So bring your food with you.
11. Many courses have cooling centers. Water jugs placed throughout the course to keep your-self cool and hydrated. USE THEM! Cooling centers are there for you on these sweltering days.
12. Finally, use common sense. If the heat is intolerable, stay indoors when you can and avoid activities in direct sunlight or on hot asphalt surfaces. Pay special attention to the elderly, infants, and anyone with a chronic illness, as they may dehydrate easily and be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Don’t forget that pets also need protection from dehydration and heat-related illnesses too.
