Course Management · Tip
Four Habits for Winter Golf
Part of our course management programs for wind and weather. Build a program with it
Cold weather stiffens your body and your swing. Stretch for a few minutes before the first tee. It matters more in winter. Add layers, but avoid tight, heavy jackets that limit your turn. Walk if you can. It keeps you warm, and riding in a cart gets chilly. And keep your tempo steady and your balance solid. That's how you hit good shots when it's cold.
Step by step
- Stretch before you tee off.
- Layer without bulky jackets.
- Walk instead of riding.
- Keep a steady tempo.
- Stay balanced.
Why it works
Cold muscles move through a smaller range and react more slowly, so your turn shortens and your timing drifts. Stretching raises your body temperature and restores some range before the first swing. Light layers keep you warm without restricting rotation. A steady tempo and solid balance keep the club on its path when your body feels stiff.
Common mistakes
- You stretch for ten seconds and head straight to the first tee.Take a few full minutes to move your hips, shoulders, and back through easy turns until you feel loose.
- You wear one thick, tight jacket that blocks your shoulder turn.Wear several thin layers and make a full practice swing to confirm you can rotate freely.
- You swing harder to make up for lost distance in the cold.Take one more club and keep the same smooth tempo, since forcing the swing costs balance and contact.
How you'll know it's working
- Your practice swings finish in balance, and you can hold the finish for a second or two.
- You strike the ball in the center of the face, even if it flies a little shorter than usual.
- You feel warm and loose by the third or fourth hole, not stiff and hunched.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: Play a few holes on a mild day and focus on only one habit, such as a full warm-up before you tee off.
Harder: Apply all four habits in colder, windier conditions and hold your tempo and balance on every shot, including after long waits between shots.
Common questions
How long should I warm up before playing golf in cold weather?
A few minutes of stretching and easy swings is a good start. Keep going until your turn feels free and you are no longer stiff.
What should I wear to play golf in winter?
Wear several thin layers instead of one bulky jacket. Check that you can make a full backswing and follow-through without the clothing pulling or restricting you.
