Since golf is a warm weather sport – and often a hot weather sport – ensuring that you are properly hydrated is essential. If you don’t drink enough water, your body is not going to perform as well as it should and your golf game is sure to suffer.
Rather than loading up at infrequent golf course drink stations, you are better off drinking smaller amounts regularly. In order to do this, you should carry a water bottle or two with you. Continue to sip away at them, and refill them as needed when you do reach water stations. A good rule of thumb is to drink eight ounces of fluid before you even tee off, then continue to drink four to eight ounces every 15 minutes of play.
If you are playing a long round and will miss a meal, you may want to consider bringing a meal replacement drink. This is generally a dry powder mixed with water that can be used in the absence of a meal or to replace fluids. These will keep you hydrated, and help keep your blood sugar level in check.
Many recreational golfers have a beer or two on the course. Keep in mind that alcohol dehydrates you; it does not count as drinking fluids to keep you hydrated. If you do choose to drink any alcohol while playing, be sure that you limit your consumption and include non-alcoholic beverages as well.
Don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink, because at this point your body is already dehydrated. Drink before heading out and continue to drink through your entire round. Dehydration creates fatigue, makes you uncomfortable and can cause you to lose your mental focus – an important element in the game of golf.
Diet and nutrition are just as important as fitness when it comes to creating a body that is optimized for a great game of golf. Be sure you keep hydration in mind each time you play.
