With winter here, you might not be in the mood to play sports outside. But there’s an alternative! Squash! Check out our beginners guide & get fit with Squash!
Squash gives you a full body workout every time you step on court! You’ll be using all of your muscles in one way or another throughout each match. You’ll also have to focus hard on each shot as it comes towards you – which helps keep your mind sharp as well as your body healthy.
Squash is a racquet sport played by two players (or four players for doubles) in a four-walled court with a small, hollow rubber ball. Once the ball is served, players take turns hitting the ball against the front wall, above the tin and below the out line.
The ball may strike the side or back walls at any time, as long as it hits below the out line and above the tin. The ball may only bounce once on the floor, and players may move anywhere around the court.
It’s easy to learn: Squash requires little equipment or space to play. You can start playing right away!
Squash is a fun and challenging contest of agility which in many ways can improve your life quality, as well as the physical benefits that playing squash provides. Here’s some tips on how to get started playing squash!
1. Warm up!
Give yourself the best possible chance and don’t let the first game slip by as a result of not warming up properly. Hit the ground running and get yourself match-ready!
2. Make sure your grip is correct!
Squash is a sport that requires a lot of focus and concentration. But the most important thing you can do to master the game is to ensure that your grip is correct. You want to have a neutral grip that allows you to hit both the forehand and backhand from the same grip. There should be a V shape that runs between your thumb and forefinger. Your forefinger should extend up the shaft of the racket giving you extra control of the racket head.
3. Lift your racket up on the way to the ball
As soon as you know which side the ball is going, take your racket head back so that by the time you arrive you are ready and in position to hit the ball. You will be amazed by how much time you have and the options you can create.
4. Careful of where your body is facing
Keep your shoulders facing the side wall at the point of impact on both the forehand and backhand side. If you over rotate and end up facing the front wall you’ll most likely drag the ball into the middle of the court.
5. Link your movement to your shot
You want to step and hit so that your swing starts just as your foot plants in the lunge position. This helps create a balanced, stable position where a transfer of weight takes place through the shot.
The more you play squash, the better you get at it! Plus, who doesn’t enjoy beating their friends at something?
Visit our gym in St. Julian’s to book a match at Cynergi Health & Fitness Club’s squash court!
