Chris Brook is an International Golf Coach specialising in coaching professionals on tours including the European and US PGA.

chrisbrook.co.uk

In his first weekly blog, Chris talks about how the cold autumn weather slows your body, and offers tips to prepare for a chill free round.

If you are adequately prepared you can prevent injuries and discomfort, allowing you to reach your full golfing potential.

What happens when your body is exposed to cold?

1. Heart rate and blood volume decreases.
2. Decreased blood supply to extremities. So less oxygen is supplied to the muscles, nerves and skin.
3. Increased stiffness of the joints and tightening of the muscles.
4. Slower conduction of nerve impulses to the muscles and organs.
5. Decreased sensation especially in the hands and feet mean loss of “feel” especially in the short game.
6. Shivering.

Who is at risk in the cold?

1. Old and young people.
2. People with low body fat.
3. Anyone improperly dressed for the cold climate.
4. People suffering from illness or injury.

How will the cold climate affect my golf?

1. It will reduce concentration.
2. Cold hands will reduce feel for the clubhead and increase discomfort on miss hits.
3. Tight joints and muscles will affect fluency in the swing.
4. Cold feet will affect balance and commitment to a shot.

How do I prepare?

A. Wear four layers of warm but flexible clothing.

1. Clothing closest to the skin should be tight and flexible. Thermal underlay material is perfect for trapping heat and allowing perspiration to move away.
2. The next layer should be cotton acrylic and the third layer, wool.
3. The outer layer should be waterproof and windproof.
4. Wear good waterproof shoes with a thermal insole, and thermal socks.
5. Wear a woollen hat and a waterproof rain hat if it starts raining.
6. Wear mittens on your hands.

B. Eat and drink.

1. Eat a light meal and drink about fluids prior to golf.
2. Fluid intake is just as important in cold as in hot weather.

C. Prepare your body.

1. Perform golf specific stretches in a warm environment prior to training.
2. Stretch every 10 minutes whe n you’re on the course.
3. Don’t swing the club before stretching and warming up.