Never in my life did I think a root with cultural significance from Fiji could improve my performance on the golf course.
We’re living in an era where nicotine, marijuana and alcohol are factors in golf and I think that trend is irresponsible and immature, not only individual consumption, but for culture in general and our game specifically.
I lean toward alternatives that have less long-term risk. Kava is one option I wanted to test with that in mind.
In 2024, a friend who had lived in Fiji told me he was starting a company focused on providing a more natural social drink with no alcohol.
Introducing Kava.
Webster’s Dictionary says Kava is “an intoxicating beverage prepared from the rhizome or roots of a pepper plant (Piper methysticum) of the South Pacific islands.”
If you’re familiar with the CBS show “Survivor,” Kava may sound familiar due to its prevalence in Vanuatu and Fiji. In the early days of the show, contestants tried Kava and their reactions were displayed during certain weekly episodes.
As an avid golfer, my initial thought was: “Can this help me play stress-free on the golf course?”
Let’s find out.
Kava on the golf course
I bought a 12-pack not only support my friend but to see if there was potential for reduced stress and anxiety on the course.
I’m naturally anxious and the golf course isn’t always peaceful (you know how it goes sometimes). I have a tendency to let outside factors such as work, home life and finances affect my on-course play. I doubt I’m alone in this struggle.
Kava isn’t meant to cure anxiety but it is meant to reduce anxiety in specific stressful situations.
I played a couple of rounds with Kava in my system and I noticed a couple of things.
- I focused less on outcomes and enjoyed the experience. Twelve ounces of Kava before my round took a slight edge off but I still felt completely like myself. I didn’t have any issues driving the golf cart, hitting the golf ball or maintaining normal conversation with my playing partner. It made golf more relaxing.
- It was best consumed throughout the round. Consuming the Kava throughout the round gave a lasting effect that extended the feelings of relaxation more than a quick chug before hitting the course. I tried both and the winner is drinking it slowly and cold on the course.
Kava versus alcohol
I don’t drink alcohol. I have an addictive personality so I’ve vowed to stay far away. Anyone researching Kava and the potential benefits/risks should feel confident that it’s not only much better for you than alcohol but could be better for your golf game as well.
Now look, I’m not forcing you to ditch alcohol. I’m just trying to provide an option for those fighting to get/stay sober, looking to take the edge off on the course or even just wanting to try something new.
I won’t sugarcoat it: pure Kava in the traditional form doesn’t taste very good. If you’re going to try Kava for the first time, find a reputable company that offers different flavors and mix-ins.
Kava consumption does come with relatively minor risks that are included but not limited to:
- Liver toxicity (rare but possible)
- Alertness reduction
- Upset stomach/nausea
Final thoughts
Does Kava help your golf game?
The consumption of any substance causes different reactions for different individuals but Kava is much more likely to be a simple boost to your confidence, focus and overall approach to a round of golf.
Just like that first hit of nicotine or that first shot of alcohol, you feel an instant “locked-in” feeling. The biggest difference is less impairment, fewer health risks and quicker recovery time.
I can’t confidently say every golfer should drink Kava on the golf course but if you’re struggling with focus and/or relaxation, you should probably consider giving Kava a try. It helped me and it might help you, too.
If the concept of drinking Kava on the golf course is intriguing to you, here is a link to the Kava that I tested.
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