It may seem hard to believe, but the clocks have gone back and before we know where we are it will be dark at 4pm.
For many of you, it signals the end of the golf season, the time of year when you hang up your clubs and forget about the game until next spring.
As somebody who plays all-year round, I can fully understand why so many people just don’t fancy getting up for golf on a freezing cold winter’s day. I am not a fan myself, but it is something I have always done. Call me a masochist.
If you are somebody who has no stomach for winter golf, then this article is for you.
I challenge you to remain engaged with the game this winter. "How do I do that?" I hear you ask. Read on my friends…
(Image Credit: Kevin Diss Photography)
Take care of your golf clubs
Do not dump your clubs in the garage or cupboard without first applying a bit of love and attention. The chances are that they will be dirty - give them a good clean. While you are at it, check the condition of all 14 clubs. Do the grips need replacing? Are some of them past their sell-by date? Why not take a look at some of the many end-of-season sales and see if you can pick up the odd bargain?
Give your shoes a proper clean
The same applies to your shoes. Don’t just dump them in a hiding place or leave them stuffed in your golf bag. First things first - give them a good clean. However, if they are no longer fit for purpose, sling them and go out and treat yourself to a new pair.
Why not play some indoor golf?
If you have never tried an indoor golf centre, then you really should give it a crack. It doesn’t matter what the weather is doing outside, and you can play just about any course on the planet on a simulator. You can do it on your own or test yourself against friends. And you can even have a beer at the same time.
Watch golf on TV and YouTube
Just because you have opted to stop playing, it doesn’t mean you need to switch off from the game. There is still plenty of golf being played, both on the PGA Tour and DP World Tour so keep yourself interested by tuning in. Why not subscribe to the tour’s Fantasy Golf League? And then there is the weird and wonderful world of golf on YouTube. I can personally recommend Rick Shiels, Mark Crossfield, Danny Maude and, of course, Bryson DeChambeau.
Play a few winter rounds
I could be wrong, but I am guessing the main reason you don’t play in the winter is because you hate the cold. So do I. But here’s the thing….climate change means we now have milder winters. Much milder! And that surely means you can surprise yourself by playing a few winter rounds. Just keep an eye on the forecast - and make sure you have a proper set of waterproofs!
Spend time at the driving range
You may want to take a break from trudging around the golf course but that doesn’t mean you should hang up the clubs altogether. Why not head to the driving range, where you can work on various parts of your game and keep your swing in shape. Remember that driving bays are covered so you will be protected from the weather. Some of them are even heated for goodness sake.
Follow an exercise regime
If you are determined not to play for the thick end of six months at least sort yourself out with an exercise regime to keep you supple. You could try your hand at yoga, join a gym or simply check the internet for the most suitable exercises. Your body will thank you for it.
Treat yourself to a custom fitting session
This may well be the ideal time to bite the bullet and treat yourself to a custom-fitting session. And who knows? If you get the right set of clubs in your bag you may never again want to pack up for the winter again. Go on, you KNOW it makes sense.
Consider booking some golf lessons
So, we have had the driving range, and we have had the custom-fitting session, so you know what’s coming next - book yourself some lessons. You should probably do this BEFORE you get fitted and then head down to the driving range and groove in your swing changes.
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