Essential Safety Tips for Golfing in the Heat

Photo courtesy T. Schwabel

If you're looking for a laid-back and idyllic destination to unwind, Greater Palm Springs offers the perfect summer retreat. For golf enthusiasts, the summer heat doesn't have to be a deterrent from playing on the prestigious resort courses of PGA WEST®. With a few smart strategies, you can stay cool and enjoy your game.

Strategic Tee Times
Start your game early in the morning to take advantage of the cooler temperatures. With tee times at PGA WEST® beginning as early as 6:00 a.m., golfers can comfortably play 18 holes before the midday heat kicks in. Alternatively, the extended daylight hours in summer allow for late afternoon rounds when temperatures begin to drop, offering another comfortable playing window before sunset. Seek out shaded areas on the course whenever possible.

Stay Hydrated
Hydration is crucial in the summer heat. Drink plenty of fluids like water, Gatorade, Powerade, and unsweetened coconut water to replenish lost electrolytes. Avoid beverages with caffeine, alcohol, or high sugar content, as these can dehydrate you further. Remember, if you feel thirsty, you're likely already dehydrated, so drink fluids regularly. Save the celebratory beer for the air-conditioned comfort of the clubhouse after your round.

Smart Nutrition
Fuel your body with a light, nutritious meal before hitting the course. Opt for quality proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Bring along snacks to maintain your energy levels throughout your game. Choose healthy options like high-fiber fruits (apples, pears, bananas), nuts, trail mix, sunflower seeds, peanut butter on whole grain bread or crackers, and crunchy veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and celery sticks. These foods help keep you hydrated and provide essential nutrients.

Dress for Success
Wearing the right clothing can make a big difference. Choose lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting apparel made from breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics. Apply SPF 50 sunscreen before and during your game, and protect your eyes with sunglasses. A wide-brimmed hat is ideal for shielding your face, forehead, and neck. Cooling towels, which can stay cool for several hours after being activated with water, are also great for combating the heat. Rotating gloves every few holes can help keep your grip dry. The Golf Shops at PGA WEST® offer a variety of summer golf apparel and accessories to keep you comfortable.

Monitor Your Well-being
Be aware of the signs of heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Heat stroke is a medical emergency with symptoms including a very high body temperature (above 103°F), red, hot and dry skin with no sweating, rapid heartbeat, throbbing headache, dizziness, and nausea. Heat exhaustion is less severe but still serious, with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, light-headedness, muscle cramps, headache, rapid heartbeat, and shallow breathing. Always carry a cell phone for emergencies.

By taking these precautions, you can fully enjoy the exceptional golf experiences at PGA WEST® even during the peak of summer. Stay cool, stay safe, and enjoy your time on the greens!

Resort courses open for play this summer:

· PGA WEST® Pete Dye Mountain Course

· PGA WEST® Pete Dye Dunes Course

· PGA WEST® Nicklaus Tournament Course

· PGA WEST® Greg Norman Course

(The Stadium Course is undergoing a restoration project and will reopen in the fall.)

Book your PGA WEST® resort tee times here.