A lot of people do not understand how tiring and straining golf can be on your body. It is important to keep fuel in your golf bag so that your Energy remains high and you do not fall victim to fatigue out on the course.

While many of us will settle for the Turn Hot Dog, a few fine pilsners, and a bottle of water during a round, your body will be thirsting for more. If you want to perform at your best, there are some things you should consider keeping with you that will maintain your energy levels throughout the course of a round.

Disclaimer: I am not a nutritionist or a sports physician, but I have found that I perform significantly better on the course when I prepare properly. Here are my five favorite things to keep in my bag during a round.

Beef Jerky

It’s good to have some source of protein at the ready when you’re out on the course. Dehydrated meat, beef jerky, or even meat sticks are a great option because they last a long time, they are tasty, and they pack protein along with healthy fats that will help you fuel your round.

Jerky is also super healthy as long as you buy ones that are not packed with chemicals or artificial colors (yes, some of them actually have that). It is important to keep in mind that eating as naturally as possible on the course will not only translate to better digestion and energy levels, but it will also contribute to keeping your muscles, bones, and joints in better shape as the years go by.

Electrolytes

Sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium: these are your four main electrolytes.

As a result of playing out in the Sun and moving, you will naturally lose some of these through exercise. It is important to replenish these throughout the course of a round, whether it be through electrolyte powder or sports drinks.

Although it is tasty, Gatorade is not always your best option. It is filled with sugar and artificial sweeteners, which usually lead to insulin spikes and, thus, the dreaded “crash.” 

Going with something that is low in sugar, free of colors, packs an adequate amount of electrolytes is best for replenishing electrolytes.

A Sandwich

Tiger Woods is famous for his peanut butter and banana sandwiches that he eats mid-round to maintain energy. Knowing how strict Tiger is with his diet, it is likely that he eats on whole grain or sprouted grain bread, with all-natural peanut butter and an organic banana. 

Anything along these lines is great. Peanut butter will provide a few grams of protein, the bread is complex carbohydrates that will sustain energy, and the banana is a good dose of fructose and fast-digesting carbs that will help with energy in the short-term.

Yes, try to resist the turn hot dog.

Nuts

My favorite is cashews, but any sort of nut will really do. Almonds, walnuts, cashews, and pistachios are likely the best options here. Nuts are filled with protein and healthy fats, both of which help with energy levels, and are a clean way to get some fast energy out on the course.

Water

Yes, along with electrolytes, you need to be drinking water. Check out how many Tour players are carrying a bottle of water with them from the tee box to their next shot. It’s very often.

Water is going to disappear from your system, especially during rounds on hot days. You need to replenish it and attempt to drink at least a few ounces of water every few holes.

Cover Image via Caddie Network