by Megan Hart
Though you may have spent the last few months fantasizing about your first tee time of the year, it’s still a good idea to do some prep before golf season arrives. Here are a few tips about how you can get ready for the most wonderful time of the year:
Keep it short
Start by working on your short game. Set up a makeshift putting green in your home or office (if you can get away with it), and take a few strokes whenever you have downtime. Putting aids are fairly inexpensive, but they can make a world of difference once you’re back on the course. Try taking your significant other for an evening of miniature golf, as well. They'll think you're being romantic, while you're actually working on your game.
Get a grip
Been a few months since you last used your clubs? Don’t run into a not-so-sticky situation come golf season. Before your first round, be sure to inspect your existing grips. If they’re in pretty good shape, you can likely get away with just giving them a soap and water wipe down. If your grips are dried, cracked or tackless, however, you probably need to replace them. It’s best to do this early in the season so that you’ve adapted to your new equipment by the time the heart of golf season rolls around.
Stretch it out
It’s no secret that flexibility is one of the most important factors when it comes success in golf. In addition to stretching before and after your regular workouts, consider adding yoga to your exercise repertoire. Start out with a class in Hatha Yoga, which is meant to enhance flexibility and encourage concentration. Hatha, or other gently styles of yoga, are great for beginners. Once you’re comfortable with the poses, branch out from there.
Take a hike
Doing cardio prior to golf season will help you maintain your stamina once you’re out on the links. If you’ve avoided the gym all winter, start small by taking walks. The most important thing is that you pick a workout regimen and stick to it. Like betting on the course? Try making a wager with yourself off of it by setting exercise goals. Every time you meet a milestone, reward yourself. If you miss one, pay up. You can even sign up for online services, likeStickK, that help ensure you’ll follow through with working out.
Make it fun
It can be difficult to get back into the swing of things after a long winter. Fortunately, golf entertainment complexes, like Topgolf, can make it fun and easy to shake the rust off your swing. Have a couple beers and a gourmet burger while you focus on the basics. Plenty of practice before you’re out on the course can go a long way … and it can be fun, too! If it doesn’t go too well your first time out, you can always blame it on the cocktail.
Try retail therapy
Golf is hard enough as it is, so there’s no need to make it more challenging by being uncomfortable while you play. Your golf clothes should feel good and offer you plenty of flexibility. If they don’t, it may be time to buy some new ones. It might surprise you what a big difference a new outfit can make. Plus, with stylish golfers lighting up the PGA Tour, there are plenty of cool new looks to try out. Warning: Rickie Fowler orange isn't for everyone.
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