Golf is one of the most exciting areas in performance science — and I’m always pushing to use the latest research so you have every advantage. But here’s the catch: there’s still very little high-quality research in elite golf nutrition & fueling. That means I take what we know from related areas, trial it, tweak it for you, lean on practice-based evidence (and yes, on what my brother on the European Tour has taught me), until the science catches up.
I want to share some newer findings that I think are game-changers — things for you (and any Tour Professional) to consider.
What Recent Research Tells Us
- A 2024 systematic scoping review found that nutrition strongly influences energy levels, cognitive function, and body composition in golfers. We should treat fueling not just as calories but as brain and body performance. PMC
- Another recent narrative review (“Nutritional Considerations for Elite Golf”, 2023) uncovered that elite golfers often travel a lot, walk long distances (sometimes 20 km per tournament day + multiple rounds/day), and require nutrition plans tailored to pre-, during-, and post-round demands, hydration, and even supplements. MDPI+1
- There’s growing evidence that mental fatigue (from long rounds, walking, decision fatigue) negatively impacts putting, accuracy, shot choice, drive distance. If we don’t fuel & hydrate well, your mind gives out before your body does. PLOS
- A scoping review on recovery for elite & amateur golfers (2025) emphasized that nutrition + hydration + sleep are cornerstones. They also found that massage, mobility/flexibility work, and good routines for sleep and jet-lag are ways elite players are pulling ahead. SpringerLink
How We’ll Apply It Together
So here’s what I want you to think about, based on all that:
- Pre-round fueling
I’ll help you build a pre-round plate that gives sustained energy — complex carbs, solid protein, a little healthy fat, plus fruit/veg. If your tee is early, we finish ~90 mins beforehand. If it’s later, we adjust portions. - On-course snacks & hydration
We’ll plan 3-4 snacks spread through the round (holes 5 /10 /15 etc.), combining low GI carbs + light protein + fat. Also, hydration with electrolytes is non-negotiable. Keep sipping throughout — not just when you’re thirsty. - Caffeine & other ergogenic aids
Research shows doses of ~3-5 mg/kg body weight of caffeine before/during rounds can reduce fatigue, improve accuracy and even drive distance in the late stages of a round. We’ll consider this strategically. MDPI - Recovery & Travel
After the round: protein + vegetables + enough rest to restore both body + brain. If you’re traveling: pay attention to sleep hygiene, hydration, immune support. These are often what separate those who stay healthy vs. those who burn out. SpringerLink+1
I’m committed to customizing all of this to you — your schedule, your rounds, what works in real life. Because you deserve to be fueling like a pro, recovering properly, and keeping your mind sharp through every shot. Let’s roll this into your plan and see the gains together.