Staying cool is vital to a successful golf outing.
Golf on Hilton Head Island 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. Bring a cool towel.
- Take your shoes off occasionally and wipe your feet down with the cool towel in the same way you wipe your hands, arms and neck.
- 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.
6. Wear a hat.
- A wide brim one is optimal.
- Some hats can be soaked in cool water without losing their shape.
7. Stay dehydrated.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
9. Eat a smart meal before the game.
- During the round, enjoy small snacks of cold fruit or low-fat dairy products.
11. Play early.
- If you tee off by 6:45 a.m., you can finish 18 holes by 10:45 a.m.
12. Golf is much more fun as a family or with a group of friends.
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
- Forget the accessories or jewelry
- 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.
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 www.palmettodunes.com.
