Stay Hydrated On The Course

Monday, March 13th, 2023
Stay hydrated on the golf course
No matter your experience or level of skill, being dehydrated on the golf course can seriously impact your game. Temperatures can creep up when lugging your clubs around 18 holes in the middle of the day, so be sure to stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids. Keep reading to learn how to stay hydrated on the golf course. 

How Much Water Should I Drink on the Golf Course?

Staying hydrated while playing golf is essential. Not only does it keep your body functioning effectively, but it can also help to improve your performance on the course. While the amount of water needed will vary depending on many factors such as temperature and activity level, a good starting point is to drink 8-10 ounces of water for every hour you are on the golf course. 

Do I Have to Drink Water?

Sugary beverages like soda and energy drinks might make you feel more alert and energetic on the course, but they can only do so much to combat dehydration. The high sugar content in juices and sodas might give you a quick burst of energy but can cause a sugar crash later. Soda and energy drinks also have caffeine, which is a diuretic that can cause dehydration if you consume a lot of it.  Many people like to sip on a beer or a cocktail while on the course. Although drinking alcohol and golfing can be fun, alcohol is also a diuretic that can make dehydration worse if you drink large amounts. Alcohol also causes cognitive and motor impairments, which will negatively affect your game.  Some sports drinks, like Gatorade or Powerade, have electrolytes in them that water does not. Combining water and a sports drink with additional electrolytes can help you get the most out of your hydration efforts. Just be aware of the sugar content in whichever sports drink you choose. 

Signs of Dehydration on the Golf Course

When you are wrapped up in the game, it is easy to forget to drink enough fluids. Your body will start to show warning signs that you are becoming dehydrated.  Below are some of the most common signs of dehydration on the course: 
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Lethargy and tiredness
  • Headaches
  • Difficulties concentrating
  • Dry mouth, eyes, and lips
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should take a break from the course to drink some water and get out of the sun. Resting out of the sun will help your body acclimate faster.  SIGN UP FOR GOLF SCHOOL! To learn more about golfing or to take a class, visit the Academy of Golf Dynamics at 1700 Kahala Sunset Drive in Spicewood, Texas. You can reach us at (512) 261-3300 or send us an email for more information!