Never in my life did I think that a culturally significant Fijian root could improve my performance on the golf course.
We are living in an age where nicotine, marijuana and alcohol are factors in golf and I think this trend is irresponsible and immature, not only for individual consumption, but for the culture in general and our game in particular.
I lean toward alternatives that have less long-term risk. Kava is an option I wanted to test with this 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 without alcohol.
Introducing Kava.
Webster’s Dictionary states that Kava is “an intoxicating liquor prepared from the rhizome or roots of a pepper plant (Pepper methysticum) of the South Pacific Islands.”
If you’re familiar with the CBS show “Survivor,” Kava may sound familiar because of its prevalence in Vanuatu and Fiji. In the early days of the show, the contestants tried Kava and their reactions were shown during several 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 pack of 12 not only to support my friend, but to see if there was potential for reducing stress and anxiety on the course.
I’m naturally anxious and the golf course isn’t always quiet (you know how it goes sometimes). I have a tendency to let outside factors like work, home life and finances affect my play on the course. I doubt I am alone in this struggle.
Kava is not intended to cure anxiety, but it is intended to reduce anxiety in specific stressful situations.
I played a few rounds with Kava in my system and noticed a few things.
- I focused less on the results and enjoyed the experience. Twelve ounces of Kava before my round took a slight edge, but I still felt completely like myself. I had no problem driving the golf cart, hitting the golf ball, or holding a normal conversation with my playing partner. It made golf more relaxing.
- It was best consumed throughout the round. Consuming Kava throughout the round provided a lasting effect that extended feelings of relaxation more than a quick swig before hitting the course. I tried both and the winner is drinking it slow and cold on the course.
Kava vs. Alcohol
I don’t drink alcohol. I have an addictive personality so I have vowed to stay away. Anyone researching Kava and the potential benefits/risks should feel confident that not only is it much better for you than alcohol, but it may be better for your golf game.
Now look, I’m not forcing you to give up alcohol. I’m just trying to provide an opportunity for those struggling to get/stay sober, looking to get off course or even just wanting to try something new.
I won’t sugarcoat it: Pure kava in its traditional form doesn’t have much flavor. If you are trying Kava for the first time, find a reputable company that offers different flavors and blends.
Kava consumption comes with relatively minor risks that include, but are not limited to:
- Liver toxicity (rare but possible)
- Reduced vigilance
- Upset stomach/nausea
Final thoughts
Does Kava Help Your Golf Game?
Consuming any substance causes different reactions for different individuals, but Kava is much more likely to be a simple boost to confidence, focus and overall approach to a round of golf.
Like that first hit of nicotine or that first hit of alcohol, you feel an immediate “shut up” feeling. The biggest difference is less damage, fewer health risks and faster recovery time.
I can’t say for sure that every golfer should drink Kava on the golf course, but if you’re struggling with focus and/or relaxation, maybe you should consider giving Kava a try. It helped me and it can help you too.
If the concept of drinking Kava on the golf course is intriguing to you, here’s one RELATED in the Kava I tested.
