Golf is a fantastic sport for senior citizens. Not only can it allow them to get some fresh air and sunshine, but they also get one heck of a work out! They can reduce the chances of experiencing negative health effects by ensuring that they do not get too hot. However, this is one of the largest concerns of senior citizens out on the golf course, is being able to make sure they are sufficiently hydrated!
Safety precautions for seniors
- Be sure to hydrate! It is very easy for a senior citizen to become dehydrated while at the course, so be sure to stay hydrated! Also, remember water doesn’t count as vitamins and minerals so it might also be wise to choose a drink with some electrolytes, to keep you fully hydrated and feeling your best while out on the course!
- Be sure to watch out for the heat. Most courses offer a shaded area near the course where you can take regular breaks to rest and cool down, so be sure not to stay too long in direct sunlight at any given time, even if it seems like “overdressing” for the weather conditions while on the course!
Heat stroke can really have a large impact on a person. This includes the elderly and senior citizens. In some climates it is extremely easy to overheat and end up with heat stroke which can be quite dangerous. When golfing as a senior citizen be sure to take in the weather considerations depending on what time of day you choose to play golf for your safety. The temperatures can be extreme in some golfing locations.
The temperature changes when the sun shines on it and the heat bounces back up at you especially if you are over a body of water which adds to the warming effect. Shade cloths, hats and umbrellas or walking clubs can help reduce heating problems but only to an extent.
The best prevention is hydration and finding shaded covers or going into AC for a while until the major heat passes. Don’t be afraid to get out of that heat and finish your round of golf later in the day when the sun is not directly overhead!
Why is golf a good sport for senior citizens?
Seniors love this game and it’s no wonder why. It is a fairly easy sport to learn, you can play for as long as you want in many places and the cost of equipment has dropped tremendously. The internet has made everything available so if there is specific information like discounts for seniors, online would be the place to look!
Download this ebook to improve your golf game today..
What potential dangers are on the course?
The golf course and especially greens can be quite sloped. Slanting of the ground can cause loss of balance or cause falls. If you are walking or riding in a cart, make sure your foot wear is appropriate for this activity. Golf shoes with plenty of grip and leather soles will help save a fall if you lose your footing or slip.
What safety precautions should I consider before teaching a senior to play golf?
What safety precautions should I consider when training senior citizens how to play golf? If you are going to train an older person, or a beginner , it is important that they have the strength and stamina to keep up with you through the whole game. They should be able to walk at least 4 miles some days if possible and for the best effects if they can walk at least 3-6 miles a day. Their knees may become sore after walking and playing golf for an extended period of time, so it is recommended that they stretch their legs once in a while to avoid injuries.
Seniors with back problems should consider using a walking stick during the game or when practicing. Keep them active by encouraging them to move as much on their own as possible!
Advanced training for seniors can include practicing after a round of golf
If playing the game itself is too difficult, you can start off by teaching them how to play miniature or pitch-and-putt golf! How do senior citizens learn best? Students will learn best if they are motivated and encouraged to succeed. If students feel like their teacher has their best interest at heart they will have a great training session regardless of the amount of level of actual play that takes place. Also giving tips for seniors help them improve their game more!
Teachers should make sure to give good feedback and verbal praise to students
If the student is being trained one-on-one, it is a good idea for teachers to record the training so that they can review it later. This way teachers will be able to point out any mistakes that were made by students or problems with their swing and have them available at any time for review.
There are a multitude of ways to teach golf, but they all apply one idea. Teach the fundamentals. Golf is like any other sport in that it has its own set of rules and methods to achieve success at playing the game. The basics can be broken down into three categories: stance, grip, and swing stroke.
Training seniors how to play golf: The Stance
The stance is one of the most important aspects of the golf swing. Many seniors tend to have problems with their stance due to hip, back or knee issues. If a senior citizen is having trouble maintaining an upright posture it might be better for them to use a more open stance. Whatever method you choose, make sure that you keep the knees slightly bent and that your feet are evenly placed.
Training seniors how to play golf: The Grip
All golf clubs have a handle and that makes gripping easier for seniors. However, it is important you learn how to grip before you start training senior citizens how to play golf. There are several different variations of the grip that you can use depending on your physical ability and swing speed.
Training seniors how to play golf: The Swing Stroke
The swing stroke is a stroke taught to senior citizens when driving the ball. In essence, it is a back and through swing. The key is to get the club head around at a speed much faster than your hands. That will result in both more distance and more control because seniors can still accelerate their hands without the club head.
In Conclusion
When it comes to senior citizens and golf the answer is always, YES! It can be a great time allowing them fresh air and sunshine while also getting in a great walk and some full body exercises. If they show interest in learning the sport more they should as all of the health benefits lead to a wonderful activity for all senior citizens!
Download this ebook to improve your golf game today..