With an average temperature for all four rounds of 101 degrees, last week's PGA Championship was officially the hottest major Championship ever recorded. Players, caddies and patrons all had to take extra precaution to make sure they stayed properly hydrated and protected from the scorching sun at Southern Hills Country Club, in Tulsa, Okla.

On the course, it was a test of mental and physical fitness. So, it did not come as much of a surprise to see Tiger Woods - a master on both fronts - capture his fourth Wanamaker Trophy and, for the second time in his career, back-to-back PGA Championships.

Playing It Smart in All Conditions

Similarly, you shouldn't overlook energy and nutrition either when preparing your bag for a round of golf. So, add a piece of fruit or a high-energy snack bar in your bag. Word to the wise: if you don't eat the fruit, remember to remove it following your round or you may be in for an unpleasant surprise the next time you play.

If there isn't plenty of water on the course, be sure to pack a bottle of water. It is extremely important to keep yourself hydrated, especially during the summer months.

Whether the weather is hot or cold, you should take precaution to protect yourself from the elements that you encounter on the course as well. For example, if you wear a glove, you should have at least two -- and probably three -- if you are playing in hot, humid or rainy conditions.

There's no need to turn your bag into a medicine cabinet, but there are some medications and ointments you should carry. For example, no matter where you play, you should carry sunscreen and lip protection with a minimum SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30 -- and probably higher -- especially if you have fair skin and burn easily. The dangers of skin cancer are not to be taken lightly.

It's vital to carry the appropriate medications if you are allergic to bee stings or insect bites and to let your playing companions know what to do if you are stricken. It's also a good idea to carry aspirin or other pain relievers, such as Tylenol and Advil.

Another good move is to carry some adhesive bandages in assorted sizes, as well as a small container of an antiseptic, in order to prevent a cut or blister from becoming infected. Finally, don't forget to include an insect repellent that won't leave a sticky or greasy film on your skin, particularly on your hands.

Preparing for Wet Weather

If rain threatens, it's important to carry whatever you need to help keep you as dry and comfortable as possible. You also need to find a way to keep your hands and grips dry, since wet hands and grips virtually ensure you won't be able to control either your shot making or your score.

The first item you should pack for inclement weather is a good, lightweight rain suit or -- at the very least -- a waterproof or water-resistant wind shirt. And the newer the better, as there have been tremendous improvements in design and material recently, thanks to advances such as nanotechnology that make this clothing more efficient, water-resistant and comfortable.

You might also pack an additional hat in case yours becomes drenched. Also, be sure to carry at least one additional towel, as well as a smaller hand towel. Here's a quick tip: Drape one towel across the top of your clubs to help keep them dry, and hang another towel under your umbrella to keep the cloth dry and to use it after the first towel absorbs more than its share of water.

As for your umbrella, it should have a spread of at least 58 inches and be of sturdy construction, so it will hold up under strong winds and driving rain. This leads to a little bit of golf trivia. Two-time PGA Champion Byron Nelson is credited with inventing the American golf umbrella in 1942 - the oversized covering that has kept the masses dry. A classic innovation from the late legendary PGA Professional.

Whether its sun or rain, today's PGA Professionals can help you improve your game, as well as find the best equipment suited for your style of play and the elements. Visit www.playgolfamerica.com to learn more and to find a PGA Professional close to your neighborhood.

Perhaps they can show you their latest invention to help you enjoy the game. Until next week, here's to better golf!

Rick Martino is Director of Instruction for The PGA of America. He teaches at the PGA Learning Center in Port St. Lucie, Fla., and is ranked among the Top 50 instructors by Golf Digest Magazine. The author of the PGA Manual of Golf (Warner Books/$34.95), Martino can be reached at (800) 800-GOLF or by email at pgalearningcenter@pgahq.com.