Thailand Golf: Sports Drink or Water? Hydration Strategy
The surprising dilemma of "what to drink" during golf in Thailand
When golfing in Thailand,
Have you ever wondered:
"Are sports drinks good?"
"Is water alone not enough?"
"How much should I drink?"
Thailand experiences high temperatures year-round, and it's not uncommon for temperatures to exceed 35℃, especially during the hot season.
Therefore, hydration during golf is crucial not only for your score but also for managing your physical condition.
Why hydration is important for golf in Thailand
Golf is often not considered an intense sport, but an 18-hole round takes about 4 to 5 hours.
During that time, your body continuously sweats due to:
- High temperatures
- Strong UV radiation
- Prolonged outdoor activity
As mentioned in the previous article, you lose more fluids than you might imagine when golfing in Thailand.
Therefore, "frequent replenishment" is more important than "what to drink."
The difference between water and sports drinks
Characteristics of water
Water is a simple way to hydrate.
It's suitable for daily hydration because you don't have to worry about calories or sugar.
Being easy to drink continuously is also an important point, especially during long rounds.
Characteristics of sports drinks
Sports drinks contain sugar and electrolytes.
While they can be helpful when you sweat a lot, some products contain a high amount of sugar.
Therefore, it's important to choose one that suits your activity level and physical condition.
Is it okay to only drink sports drinks during golf?
Some people drink large quantities of only sports drinks, but this isn't always the best option.
Since golf in Thailand involves playing for 4 to 5 hours,
- Water
- Sports drinks
Many people incorporate both, depending on the situation.
The key is to find what is easy for you to drink and can be replenished continuously.
Recommended hydration timing for golf in Thailand
For hydration,
"Before you feel thirsty"
is the key.
Recommended timings are:
Before starting
Hydrate sufficiently before the round.
During the round
Drink small amounts every 3-4 holes.
At lunchtime
Rehydrate in preparation for the back nine.
After the round
Replenish lost fluids.
This is the flow.
Choosing easy-to-drink water is also important
For long rounds, ease of drinking is also important.
Many people find that "they drink less in the latter half of the round."
Therefore, choosing water that you can comfortably continue to drink is also a key point for hydration.
ONSENSUI99 is natural alkaline mineral water sourced from Tarumizu City, Kagoshima Prefecture.
It is ultra-soft water with a hardness of 1.7 mg/L, characterized by a smooth taste.
It's a natural water that's easy to incorporate as drinking water during prolonged outdoor activities like golf and walking.
Are there any drinks to avoid for golf in Thailand?
Many people enjoy coffee and alcohol, but it's important to prioritize hydration during golf.
Especially in Thailand's hot environment, we recommend ensuring adequate hydration first, and then enjoying these beverages.
Summary
For golf in Thailand,
- Water
- Sports drinks
Neither one is absolutely superior.
What's important is:
- To drink frequently
- To choose drinks that suit you
- To hydrate before you feel thirsty
Why not make hydration a conscious effort to enjoy golf comfortably even in Thailand's hot climate?
FAQ
Is it okay to only drink water during golf?
It depends on your activity level and physical condition, but continuous hydration is important.
Are sports drinks always necessary?
Not necessarily. It's important to choose according to the situation.
How much should I drink when golfing in Thailand?
It varies depending on the temperature and your perspiration amount, but try to hydrate frequently.
Is it okay to drink coffee during golf?
There's no problem with enjoying it, but it's important to also be mindful of hydration.
