Great news seniors! Golf season is here. The summer weather makes golfing more appealing than ever, so chances are you’re getting ready to swing. Yet, as a senior, the warmer weather increases health risks. As we get older, we become more susceptible to things like heat stroke and dehydration.
So, don’t rush into your game this summer without taking the right precautions. Here are some of the best tips not only to stay safe but also to have a great time on the green this summer.
Stretch!
Stretching is critical anytime you’re going to engage in physical activity. Even though golf may seem low impact, it’s still a sport. Your body is going to be dynamically in action for hours at a time. So, even though you might be getting around in a golf cart, it’s important that you stretch your body thoroughly. Warm up, stretch yourself out, and get your body ready to hit the green.
Hydrate
Depending on where you live, temperatures could be extremely high. Since you’ll be golfing outside, it’s important that you prepare for the heat. Carry around a bottle of water with you at all times. Rather than waiting until you’re quenched with thirst to chug a whole bottle, drink small sips throughout the day. Doing so will ensure you have a nice steady rate of hydration without risking something drastic like passing out.
Use The Right Equipment
Using the right equipment is critical when you’re a senior citizen playing golf. From your clubs to your golf balls, investing in quality equipment will significantly up your game. As a senior, you may not have as much upper body strength as your younger playmates. So consider opting for lighter golf clubs which will increase your swing speed and reduce your chances of fatigue.
Don’t Be Afraid to Modify
If you have certain physical limitations, don’t be afraid to modify your game. For example, if you have a bad shoulder, you may have trouble hitting long shots. So focus on your accuracy and playing strategic shots to make up for your lack of distance.
If senior tees are available then take advantage of them as they can make the course shorter and more manageable to take on. As much as you like to believe that you can golf the same way you did in your 20s, at some point you have to admit you’re getting older. The point of golf is to enjoy yourself not to injure yourself!
Protect Yourself From The Sun
The sun can be brutal in the summer, even if it seems like an overcast day. Wear the proper clothing like UV resistant t-shirts and visors. Above all make sure that you’re slathered in suncream to avoid your chances of sunburn. As you get older your chances of developing skin cancer increase significantly, so you want to take every precaution you can!