Warmth and Safety First, Stretching Is a Cure-All
Swing Compactly, Be Lenient with Rules: 'Winter Rule'
[Asia Economy Reporter No Woo-rae] ‘Winter.’ It is an unwelcome season for golfers. As temperatures drop sharply, playing a round becomes challenging. Still, golf courses remain bustling. Most golf courses stay open throughout the winter except for short closure periods, reflecting the strong passion for golf. It is a country where people enjoy golf regardless of frozen fairways and greens.
However, most domestic golf courses are located in mountainous areas where temperatures are 3 to 5 degrees Celsius lower than in urban areas. When the wind blows, the perceived temperature drops significantly. Yet, golfers cannot give up their rounds. For passionate golfers, the cold is just a minor inconvenience. They cannot be satisfied with just indoor practice ranges and screen golf. Here are some essential tips to know for winter rounds.
◆Multiple thin layers rather than one thick layer = The most important thing in winter golf is keeping warm. Shivering from the cold causes the body to tense up, ruining shots. However, wearing a thick sweater or jumper can interfere with the swing. The solution is layering clothes. Start with thermal underwear, then a turtleneck, fleece material, and finally a windbreaker or padded vest. In extreme cold, finish with windproof wear. Goose down pants are sufficient.
Body heat usually escapes most from the neck and head. Accessories such as wool hats, winter thermal gloves, and neck warmers should be kept in the golf bag. Slightly thick synthetic leather gloves are suitable for winter. Inserting two heat packs on both sides of the waist belt provides a ‘heater effect’ throughout the round. They must be attached over the innerwear. Direct contact with the skin can cause burns. Alcohol consumption is prohibited as it actually lowers body temperature.
◆Warm up sufficiently = Cold tightens muscles, increasing the risk of injury. Arrive early at the golf course and use the driving range if possible. Start lightly with short clubs, then increase swing intensity with longer clubs. This helps prevent sudden muscle injuries during actual play. Stretching during the round is also beneficial. Maintain body temperature by walking briskly and frequently stretch to improve flexibility. For the first 2 to 3 holes, it is better to walk instead of riding in the cart.
Make your swing simpler than usual. This reduces mishits and prevents injuries. Since the grass is frozen and roll increases, a three-quarter swing is enough to secure distance. It is also advisable to use one club longer than usual. On the fairway, use a sweeping swing. Hitting frozen ground can cause injury. In the short game, it is wiser to roll the ball using pitching wedges rather than lofting it to take advantage of the roll. On the green, focus less on the lie and stroke more firmly.
◆Don’t be obsessed with scores, apply the ‘Winter Rule’ = Winter golf prioritizes atmosphere over scores. Agree with your playing partners to apply the ‘Winter Rule.’ When normal play is impossible due to mud on the ball, divots, or footprints in bunkers, allow ‘no penalty drops’ as a gesture of mutual consideration.
Shots on frozen areas or slopes near water hazards are dangerous. Even if ponds are frozen, entry is strictly prohibited. The best winter golf is injury-free golf.
Especially, many fall accidents during winter golf occur on stairs or cart paths. Slipping accidents happen frequently when rushing. Avoid running or hurrying. It is also better to avoid spike-less golf shoes.
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