Golfers heading to the Gulf Coast during the summer months will know that the searing hot temperatures can create a challenging experience for every standard. While Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer 32 miles of pristine beaches that may seem like a preferable location to relax during these summer months, the golf course remains a popular spot because of the longer days and desire to take advantage of the perfect weather.
Whether you plan on taking advantage of the idyllic conditions or simply prefer to stay cool and head directly to the 19th hole, there are several ways you can maximize your summer golf vacation. You'll also ensure you take advantage of the awesome courses available along this stretch of Alabama coastline.
Drink plenty of fluids.
It may seem obvious, but your energy levels will drop quickly when you are on the golf course in the middle of summer. It’s critical to stay hydrated to not only enhance your on-course performance but also so you can remain in peak physical condition.
While you may be tempted to drink your favorite soda or even an alcoholic beverage, you are better saving these for the 19th hole experience after the round. Focus on drinking plenty of water and energy drinks. You may be surprised at how this positively impacts your performance and ensures you can remain fully energized for the remainder of the round.
Golf is primarily a game of skill, but if your focus and concentration levels drop, your performance on the course will suffer. When temperatures are rising, you are at a much higher risk of suffering heat exhaustion, and subsequently, your game will reflect this. As your body perspires, you are not only losing water but also electrolytes that are needed to maintain fluid balance and muscle contractions, hence the need to have energy drinks or nutrition bars and fruit.
A general rule of thumb to follow regarding how much you should drink is to follow the philosophy of 8-16 ounces every 30 minutes. For a 4-hour round, that would be a minimum of 64-128 ounces.
4. Manage your golf schedule.
Heading to the Gulf Coast with your golfing buddies in the middle of summer and raring to create an action-packed itinerary full of golf? While that sounds awesome, careful planning of your golfing itinerary will ensure you maximize your experience in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
If you take advantage of the early start vs. twilight hours approach, you can maximize your schedule by playing early one day and then late the next day. This will give your body the most time to recover and re-energize to ensure both your performance levels and health are not impacted as you play the plethora of excellent courses on the Gulf Coast.