Many golfers with diabetes play regularly and enjoy the exercise, fresh air and social side of the game. A round of golf is several hours of activity, so planning ahead helps you stay safe and comfortable. Here are practical tips, alongside the advice of your healthcare team.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Always follow the guidance of your doctor or diabetes team.
Before the round
- Plan with your healthcare team how to manage food and any medication for several hours of activity.
- Check your levels as advised before starting.
- Eat appropriately before playing.
- Pack supplies.
What to carry
- Glucose monitor or meter.
- Fast-acting sugar, such as glucose tablets.
- Snacks for longer rounds.
- Water. Read what to eat and drink on the golf course.
- Medication as prescribed, stored appropriately in heat or cold.
- Medical ID.
During the round
- Check levels at intervals your team recommends, perhaps at the turn.
- Recognise symptoms of low blood sugar, such as shakiness, sweating and confusion, and treat promptly.
- Hydrate regularly, especially in heat. Read hot weather golf.
- Use a cart on very hot or hilly days if needed. Read walking vs riding a golf cart.
Foot care
- Well-fitting, supportive shoes. Read our golf shoes guide.
- Moisture-wicking socks.
- Check feet for blisters or sores after the round. Read golf and foot pain.
Tell your playing partners
Let someone know you have diabetes and what to do if you need help, including where your supplies are.
After the round
- Check levels as advised; activity can affect blood sugar for hours.
- Eat and hydrate. Read recovery after golf.
Planning your day
- Agree a plan with your diabetes team about checking glucose before, during and after golf, and about adjusting food or medication.
- Eat a balanced meal before playing, based on your usual routine.
- Know your round length: 18 holes walking can take four hours or more, a significant period of activity.
- Allow for changes: heat, hills and walking versus riding all affect how much energy you use. Read walking vs riding a golf cart.
Snacks and drinks for the bag
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Fast-acting glucose (as advised by your team) | To treat low blood sugar quickly |
| Slower-release snacks | Such as nuts, wholegrain bars or fruit |
| Water | Hydration, especially in hot weather |
| A spare snack | In case play is slow |
Read what to eat and drink on the golf course.
Recognising and responding to lows
Golf can mask the early signs of low blood sugar, because shakiness or sweating may be blamed on heat or nerves. Know your personal warning signs and those listed by your healthcare team. If you feel unwell, stop playing, treat according to your plan and rest. Don't drive a car or a golf cart until you've recovered.
Heat, cold and devices
- Heat can affect blood glucose, insulin and some devices. Keep insulin and supplies out of direct sun.
- Cold may affect devices and circulation; keep hands and feet warm.
- Sensors and pumps: protect them during the swing and in the bag. Check that adhesive holds in heat and sweat.
Foot care in detail
- Well-fitted golf shoes and moisture-wicking socks. Read golf shoes guide and golf and foot pain.
- Check your feet before and after golf for blisters or redness.
- Avoid brand-new shoes on a long round.
Golf as part of a healthy routine
Regular walking golf can be a valuable part of an active lifestyle. Read is golf good exercise?.
Frequently asked questions
Can people with diabetes play golf?
Yes. Many do, with planning and guidance from their healthcare team.
What should I carry on the course?
A monitor, fast-acting sugar, snacks, water and any prescribed medication.
Why is foot care important for golfers with diabetes?
Walking for hours can cause blisters, which need careful attention.
Should I tell my playing partners?
It's sensible, so they can help if needed.
Is it safe to play golf with type 1 diabetes?
Many people with type 1 diabetes play golf safely with a plan agreed with their healthcare team.
Should I tell my playing partners?
It's a good idea, so they can help if you need it.
The bottom line
Golf can be a great activity for people with diabetes. Plan with your healthcare team, monitor as advised, carry supplies, look after your feet and tell your partners. For more on healthy golf, read is golf good exercise?