Summer in Florida can get hot and if one of your favorite hobbies is golf, you're probably thinking about how to enjoy the game without getting sunburned, dehydrated, or even overheated. To help keep you healthy and safe, we've rounded up five tips to keep you cool this summer on the golf course.
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1. Tee Up Early
An average round of golf for four players is estimated to take approximately four hours. The sun is the strongest between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., so limiting your time outdoors during this time is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself. Scheduling an early tee time is a great way to get most of your game completed before the heat sets in. If you have a 7:30 a.m. tee time, for instance, you should have over half of your game played before it starts to get too hot, and you'll be finished in time to clean up before lunch.
2. Dress Appropriately
During the summer, you can dress for the weather and still be within the dress code at any club. You should wear loose-fitting, lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes in breathable fabrics. Choose lighter colors like white or pastels, instead of dark colors. You can also find clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) for additional sun protection. Make sure you don't forget to put on sunscreen and lip balm before you head out and reapply as often as necessary.
3. Keep Cooling Accessories on Hand
There are a few accessories that can help protect you from UV rays or help you feel cooler. The great thing is they work for other outdoor activities like art walks and nature hikes as well, but will make your next round of golf more comfortable.
- Wide-brimmed hat or visor will help protect your face and eyes
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Cooling towels soaked in water, wrung out and worn around your neck for a cooling effect
- Personal fans will help you feel cooler, and many even have built-in misters
4. Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is key to avoiding heat exhaustion and fatigue. You should start drinking water before you hit the golf course, and continue throughout the game, and afterward. Drinking cool water helps regulate your body temperature and replace fluids that are lost from sweating. While you should try to avoid caffeine and alcohol, you can include fresh fruits like watermelon, peaches, and berries when you get to lunch because they are high in water.
5. Know the Warning Signs
Even if you are taking all precautions to protect yourself from the heat and sun, it's still important to recognize the warning signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion. If you and your golfing partners keep an eye on each other, you can act preemptively at the first signs of heat-related illness.
Common signs of heat exhaustion include:
- pale or clammy skin
- headache
- nausea
- muscle cramps
- dizziness or headache
If you notice these or any other signs of illness, it is important to seek shade or go indoors to a cool place, place wet clothes on your body, and sip water. Take time to rest and rehydrate before resuming any activities.
Moorings Park Communities is a luxurious active retirement community in Naples, Florida. With over 90 golf courses in Naples, you'll have plenty of courses to keep you busy. Naples is also known for its arts and culture, sophisticated dining, and of course, its warm gulf waters. Whether you want to spend the day exploring Naples, strolling the beach, taking one of our enrichment classes, or relaxing at home with new friends, there's always something to do, so contact us today to learn more about living in Naples. 
