AJGA

It is very important to understand the benefits of drinking water on the golf course this summer. As of Thursday, June 24 the Atlanta area had seen its fourteenth straight day of above 90 degree temperatures. During the summertime, your body needs additional water in hot or humid weather to help lower your body temperature and to replace the fluid you lose through sweat. We would like to highlight some general guidelines for liquid intake while playing golf.

        1.  Before your round you should drink about 15-20 ounces of liquid, two to three hours in advance.

        2.  During your round you should drink 8-10 ounces of liquid, every 10-20 minutes.

        3.  After your round you should drink 10-24 ounces of liquid for every pound of fluid lost during exercise.

Inadequate fluid replacement before, during and after exercise may lead to excessive dehydration which can result in heat exhaustion or heat stroke. If you feel thirsty the dehydration process has already started.

Water vs. Sports Drinks: The general guidelines state that if you exercise for less than an hour, water is a sufficient source or rehydration. However, if your exercise lasts longer that an hour or you are in extremely hot conditions (i.e. golf tournaments) a sports drink can help replace electrolytes lost during longer activities. 

What you can do to be prepared at Atlanta Junior Golf tournaments: Bring a water bottle or sports drink with you to the golf course.  You will see Atlanta Junior Golf staff members on the course with water coolers so make sure you fill up your water bottle every time you see a staff member while you are on the golf course, even if your bottle isn’t completely empty yet!