Four Tips to Overcoming Bad Weather
Bad weather in golf is a real challenge. It adds an extra element to an already difficult sport. It taxes your creativity, imagination, and fortitude. And it tests your playing skills. But if you live in an area that’s not conducive to golf year round, playing in bad weather is the only way you can extend the season. The goal is not to let the bad weather affect your scores or you golf handicap.
Check The Weather Report
This seems like an obvious thing to do, but you really need to know what to expect out there. Is it going to rain? When, and how hard? Is it going to be windy? How hard will it be blowing and from what direction? It helps you make a game plan.
Stay Dry in the Rain
Staying dry is mandatory in the rain. Make sure you dress the proper way for a bad weather day, such as packing umbrellas, raincoats, towels, etc.
Remember, your feet will sink into the ground when it’s wet, so expect to feel cramped at address. Choke down on the club to compensate. On full shots, think carry not distance. The rain reduces distance, especially off the tee. On the green, wet grass is slower than dry. Hit putts harder and figure on less break.
Maintain Stability In The Wind
Maintaining stability is the secret to playing in the wind. Widening your stance in the wind improves stability and balance, even when putting. On approach shots, move the ball back in your stance for better contact. Also, swing harder in downwind. Allow for more wind than you think and always play two shots ahead. Remember, the wind affects short shots, too. Adjust accordingly.
Stay Warm In The Cold
Staying warm in the cold is very important because if you are cold while playing, you’re going to have a difficult time concentrating on your shots and enjoying your time on course. So, to avoid this, stretch before you play. Stretching loosens and warms you. Use long johns under your pants, and wear a turtleneck, a sweater, a wind shirt, and/or a rain jacket. You can lose a lot of heat through your head, so maybe wear a hat, too. Also, walk whenever you can. It keeps you warmer. Above all, keep your hands warm. As for making contact, you lose about two yards for every 10-degree drop in temperature. Adjust for the loss.
Playing in bad weather is never fun, but for those who live in seasonal areas, it’s the only way to extend the season and keep in practice. To beat bad weather, develop a game plan and execute your short game. Also, stay dry in the rain, warm in the cold, and stable on windy days. These are the four important things to remember, and if you follow these tips, you’ll be sure to lower your handicap and have a great time on course.