Golf, especially at the competitive level, is by nature an individual sport. While many play recreationally and socially with friends or colleagues as they get older, it remains a game that you control every time you take a swing. When it comes to safety on the golf course, however, it takes the collective effort of everyone in your foursome, as well as all others on the course, to minimize risk and avoid injury. There are a number of things to keep in mind during your golf training that will allow you to stay safe at all times on the course, relating to both the game itself and how you prepare yourself for the round.
Be Ready for the Round
Taking care of yourself before and during your day at the course can help keep you safe so you avoid injury. A full 18 holes can take a few hours to complete and being outside exerting energy for that long can be grueling. Make sure to protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and a hat. Be sure to bring water or energy drinks and snacks with you so you can refuel as necessary.
Hydrating along the course is essential for keeping your energy level up and your risk of injury down. Before you head out to tee off on the first hole, you will want to stretch out your legs and back and get your heart rate going. This allows you to keep from overexerting and pulling a muscle when taking a swing. The day is long, and making sure you can keep your mechanical approach strong throughout the round will take both physical and mental energy from start to finish.
Awareness on the Course
Safety also involves being aware of fellow golfers in your group, as well as those who are playing ahead, behind, and on holes to either side. Make sure that nobody is close by when you are taking practice swings or getting ready to hit your shot. At the same time, remain focused when others in your group are getting ready to hit their ball, so you do not get hit by the club during the swing or the ball. When it is your turn, pay attention to the group ahead of you and wait until they are a safe distance away. If your ball should happen to veer toward another golfer or group, yell “Fore” to alert them.
It is also important to obey all rules related to golf carts and to practice basic driving safety. For example, only drive straight up and down hills, and slow the cart when approaching a cart intersection or turn. Pay attention to the weather so you do not get caught in rain or a thunderstorm while out on the course. If lightning is imminent, many courses have a warning system that will allow you to seek shelter when needed. If this happens, you should drop your clubs, leave the course, and head for the clubhouse or other suitable shelter.
You can learn more about safety tips and how to make the most of your golf training regimen by contacting the team at the International Junior Golf Academy (IJGA) today at (888) 452-6642.
