Learn how to stay safe and keep your swing steady during hot summer rounds
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Heated by
TIFFANY LUKK
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Learn how to stay safe and keep your swing steady during hot summer rounds
WHEN SUMMER IS IN FULL SWING, some of the physical signs of overheating are obvious: You sweat more, you feel fatigued more easily, and you can start to cramp up. But there are a few less obvious ones as well— and they can have a huge impact on your golf game.
FEELING THE HEAT While golfing in high temperatures may feel unpleasant, it’ s more than just your comfort that’ s at stake. When you become dehydrated, blood flow slows down and your muscles receive less oxygen. This can impact both strength and flexibility. Naturally, your golf swing may not be quite up to par in that state.
Fatigue can also affect the mechanics of your game. As you get increasingly tired, you may start to overswing, lose your posture, or just struggle to finish a round.
And while the physical effects of heat are often discussed, the mental toll can easily be overlooked. Mental fog can creep in, making it more difficult to calculate distance and plan your next swing. Many golfers have learned hot weather can also lead to shorter tempers and more frustration on the course.
EFFECT ON EQUIPMENT Summer temperatures are hard on both golfers and their equipment. Golf balls don’ t behave the same in extreme heat— lower air density can allow them to travel slightly farther, while the internal materials may also expand, subtly affecting feel and compression.
Those warnings to store your golf balls in a cool dry place are there for a reason!
The metal in golf clubs will also expand slightly, affecting the stiffness and how your swing feels. That said, if you notice that your ball isn’ t going as far or your performance drops, the cause is more likely tied to dehydration or fatigue than any meaningful equipment change.
PLAYING IT SAFE On the next page, you’ ll find some classic warm-ups that won’ t wear you out before your game even starts. They’ ll help you maintain balance and power in your swing through the high-temperature days. But all the strength and flexibility in the world won’ t make a difference if you ignore heat-related safety concerns during your game.
Before you hit the green, check the heat index. A heat index of 80 or above calls for caution. Once it hits 90, the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke climbs much higher.
When possible, golfers should tee up in the morning or evening, avoiding peak afternoon heat between noon and 4 p. m. Make sure to stay hydrated throughout the day, not just the round. As your body sweats, you’ ll lose electrolytes, so it’ s smart to bring electrolyte tablets or sports drinks.
Wearing light, breathable clothing, applying sunscreen, and taking regular breaks in the shade will also help golfers stay safer and more comfortable during hot summer rounds.
36 V IRGINIA G OLFER | J u ly / A u g u s t 2026 vsga. org