Can You Handle a Summer of Golf?

Making the Most of Your Summer Golf

Summer is usually when we play the most golf. A few extra rounds after work, 36 holes over the weekend, a golf trip with friends, or simply trying to make the most of the good weather.

The trouble can be if you suddenly increase the amount of golf you’re playing, your body doesn’t necessarily adapt as quickly as your diary does! If you’re playing more golf than usual, you’ll need some good recovery strategies in place to help reduce the risk of injuries and to optimise recovery and performance.

Fitness

Muscular strength and endurance help you walk 18+ holes repeatedly without feeling like your legs have disappeared by the back nine. More importantly, maintaining strength when you’re tired can help you continue making good swings late in the round.

Nutrition

Summer golf can mean long days, missed meals and a few more beers than usual. Try to keep things simple. Get some carbohydrates in before and during your round for energy, protein (where possible during) or at least afterwards for recovery and plenty of fluids (water is usually the best option) throughout the day.

You don’t need a perfect diet—you just need to avoid running on empty.

Sleep & Recovery

It’s easy to squeeze in another round, stay up late after a few drinks and then do it all again the next evening. But your body still needs time to recover.

Good quality sleep is one of the simplest ways to keep your energy, concentration and physical performance where you want them.

And don’t forget the little things. If you’re playing several rounds in a few days, a few minutes of mobility, some light movement and a proper warm-up before you tee off can make a big difference.

Prepare Before Your Golf Trip

It’s usually worth thinking about this before the golf trip or busy period starts. Building a good level of strength and fitness takes time. You can’t really cram months of preparation into the week before your holiday!

Although, it's never too late to make a start. And not to late to make some small but impactful changes to diets/diet habits (such as planning food and snacks in advance).

Enjoy Your Golf

You could even enjoy the golf more and hopefully still have something left in the tank when you reach the final hole!