Playing 36 holes in a day is a rite of passage for keen golfers. It happens on golf trips, in club championships and on long summer days when one round isn't enough. It's also tiring: eight or more hours on your feet, hundreds of swings and plenty of concentration. With the right preparation, you can enjoy both rounds and play well to the end.
Planning the day
- Early start: tee off in the morning to finish before dark.
- Book both rounds with a sensible gap between them. Read how to book tee times.
- Choose the courses: an easier course second may suit tired legs.
- Check daylight: especially outside midsummer.
Walk or ride?
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Walk both rounds | Great exercise, good rhythm | Very tiring; legs may fade |
| Walk one, ride one | Balance of exercise and rest | Extra cost |
| Ride both | Saves energy | Less exercise, can stiffen up |
| Trolley | Takes the weight off | Still walking |
Read walking vs riding a golf cart.
Food and hydration
- Breakfast: a balanced meal with slow-release carbohydrates and some protein.
- During each round: snacks every few holes: fruit, nuts, sandwiches.
- Between rounds: a light lunch, not a heavy meal.
- Water throughout; add electrolytes in heat.
- Go easy on alcohol until after the second round.
Read what to eat and drink on the golf course.
The break between rounds
- Eat and drink.
- Stretch: hips, back, shoulders and legs.
- Change socks or shirt if needed.
- Hit a few putts or short shots to stay loose.
- Review the first round briefly, then let it go.
Read recovery after golf.
Managing fatigue
- Shorten your swing slightly: a three-quarter swing with good tempo holds up better when tired. Read golf tempo and rhythm.
- Simplify your routine and decisions. Read golf pre-shot routine.
- Take more club as your speed drops.
- Stay positive: fatigue often affects mood. Read bouncing back after a bad hole.
Physical preparation
- Build fitness before golf trips. Read golf fitness exercises.
- Warm up properly before the first round. Read the pre-round warm-up routine.
- Wear comfortable shoes. Read our golf shoes guide.
- Sun protection: you'll be outside all day. Read sun protection for golfers.
Frequently asked questions
Is playing 36 holes in a day too much?
For fit golfers, it's manageable with good preparation. Use a cart or trolley if needed.
How long should the break between rounds be?
About 30 to 60 minutes, enough to eat, drink and stretch without stiffening up.
What should I eat between rounds?
A light lunch with carbohydrates and protein, plus water.
Why do I play worse in the second round?
Fatigue affects speed, timing and concentration. Shorten your swing, take more club and keep things simple.
The bottom line
Thirty-six holes in a day is a fun challenge. Start early, plan a proper break, eat and drink regularly, consider a cart or trolley and simplify your swing and routine as you tire. For more on golf trips, read golf weekend breaks.