Improve Your Squash Game

[Updated on 1 June 2023] When you begin a new sport, you may feel out of your element and unsure. Thankfully the more we do something, the better we get. But sometimes the progress we make is slower than we would like, so we search for tips to help us get better quicker.

Squash is no different; it is a fast-paced game and sometimes even after months of play you can feel way behind. Here are five tips to improve your squash game.

Keep Your Eye on the Ball

New squash players all tend to make one big mistake; they fixate on the front wall. The key to improving your game is to learn to watch the ball. Now, this might sound obvious, but it is a hard skill to master. The ball moves fast, and you will need to learn to track moving objects. Another good tip is to make sure you are moving just your head and neck to watch rather than your whole body as you don’t want to risk moving out of the best play zone.

Use the Whole Space

Remember that there are four corners where you can score. By playing out to the corners, you can make your opponent work harder which gives you space to mentally regroup and potentially tires them quicker. A good rule of thumb is to hit the ball consistently deep, with shots over the service line to get your opponent behind you. Also, hit shots tight to the wall, which are called “rail” shots. This gives your opponent less space to play an angled shot, giving them fewer options and you the upper hand.

Take the Volley

When you take a shot in the air, or “volley” the shot, you are more likely to get your opponent out of position. This is because they have just hit a shot, and will still be moving to get back to the T. When they are off the T, you can place shots into the corners or parts of the court they are away from. By playing shots off the volley, this means you have to be in good position yourself, at the T and watching the ball the whole time.

Have Rules

Squash is a game where you can lose a lot of games from your own mistakes. The biggest mistake is hitting the tin. Players who realize when they are “off” can prevent unforced errors. I say that if I hit the tin 3 times, it’s not my day.

Another tip is to only go for tin shots when you are at the T. When you are at the T, you have positioning and you can use proper footwork to hit the shots.

Be Prepared to Practice

A crucial part of improving at any game is to practice. While this might sound trite, you should never underestimate the importance of regular practice. The more you hold the racket, hit the ball, move across the court, the more natural it all becomes. This means you are not having to concentrate on the basics and can shift your attention to honing your skills.

See my blog post on how to play squash alone.

Get fit

Having a decent level of fitness is essential to play squash. Any squash player in poor physical condition is likely to quickly break down on the court. So, a proper training program that targets the muscles used on the court is certain to benefit the all-round game play.

Aim to strengthen the lower back, quads, hips and glutes to help complete those deep lunges and the forearm muscles and shoulders to make it easier to tackle the repetitive striking of the ball. Plus, the core can benefit from strengthening in view of the constant turning and twisting.

A few yoga sessions per week may also help to achieve the stretching motions on the court. Combine this with a cardiovascular workout to complete the fitness program.

Get the basics

A fundamental technique of the game of squash is simply being able to grip and handle the racket in the correct manner. Once the basics have been understood and appreciated, it is that much easier to process to the tactical and technical aspects.

Basic include your backswing, your serve and your movement on the court.

Dominate the ‘T’

Aim to dominate the ‘T’ area which is the central part of the squash court. This is a great place to be on the court and drastically improves your chances of being successful. Try to create movement that includes striking the ball and instantly moving back in the direction of the ‘T’. Also, once you arrive on the ‘T’ you want to make sure your racket is prepared and ready to take that next volley to stay in control.

Overall, squash is a wonderful sport that is appreciated by players at all levels and skillsets. This is a sport that can be enjoyed for life and a great way to socialize with like-minded colleagues and friends. By practicing and following the right tips it is certainly possible to grow in confidence and become a better player in the future.

Become a student

Try to find a decent quality pro in the local area that is willing to spend a little time giving personalized pointers on the best ways to improve your all-around game. A one-on-one session with an experienced player can be very effective in learning the different techniques and tactics. Also, squash gives the option to practice solo which is entirely different to most other types of racket sports. A regular solo session can go a long way to help improve your all-around game play.

Watch the Pro’s

If you have ever watched sport on the television, you will notice how easy a professional makes it look. The same is true of any sport, so start watching how other players stage their game. You will notice that some players are excellent and you can mimic elements of their play for your own game. You will also see some bad habits and skills, which give you a chance to learn what not to do.

There are great resources to watch on Youtube like PSA Squash TV and the SDA Pro Doubles.

Taking the ball before the back wall

Improving your squash game requires skill, strategy, and precision. Taking the ball before it reaches the back wall is an essential technique that can significantly enhance your gameplay. This strategic move involves intercepting the ball mid-flight, denying your opponent the opportunity to set up their shots while granting you greater control over the pace and direction of the game. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of this advanced tactic, exploring its benefits, techniques, and potential impact on your overall performance on the squash court. Whether you’re a beginner seeking to elevate your game or an experienced player aiming for a competitive edge, mastering the art of taking the ball before the back wall can undoubtedly take your squash skills to new heights.

Going in short

Improving your squash game requires skill, strategy, and physical fitness. However, one aspect often overlooked is the importance of a well-executed short game. In short, mastering the art of going can give you a competitive edge on the squash court, allowing you to control the game’s pace and put your opponent on the defensive. This guide will discuss the important methods and strategies for improving your short game and overall performance on the squash court. Whether you’re a beginner looking to refine your skills or a seasoned player seeking a competitive advantage, delving into going, in short, will undoubtedly contribute to your success in squash.

Hitting the ball where the opponent is not

In the exhilarating sport of squash, precision and strategy play pivotal roles in achieving victory on the court. One of the countless tactics players employ is a fundamental skill: hitting the ball where the opponent is not. This strategic maneuver, rooted in anticipation, agility, and finesse, can significantly elevate your squash game. By understanding the principles behind this technique and developing the necessary skills to execute it, you will gain a distinct advantage, leaving your opponents scrambling to keep up with your strategic brilliance. Embark on mastering the art of hitting the ball where the opponent is not, and witness your squash game reach new heights.

Hitting winning shots

In the exhilarating sport of squash, precision and strategy play pivotal roles in achieving victory on the court. One of the countless tactics players employ is a fundamental skill: hitting the ball where the opponent is not. This strategic maneuver, rooted in anticipation, agility, and finesse, can significantly elevate your squash game. By understanding the principles behind this technique and developing the necessary skills to execute it, you will gain a distinct advantage, leaving your opponents scrambling to keep up with your strategic brilliance. Embark on mastering the art of hitting the ball where the opponent is not, and witness your squash game reach new heights.

Practice Drills

Are you looking to elevate your squash game to the next level? Whether you’re a beginner seeking to build a strong foundation or an experienced player aiming to refine your skills, practice drills are essential for improving your performance on the court. Squash is a fast-paced and physically demanding sport that requires agility, precision, and strategic thinking. Welcome to this guide, where we will provide you with a range of practice drills to improve your footwork, shots, accuracy, and overall game. By incorporating these drills into your training regimen, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a formidable opponent on the squash court.

Watch Better Players

Are you looking to elevate your squash game to the next level? Whether you’re a beginner seeking to build a strong foundation or an experienced player aiming to refine your skills, practice drills are essential for improving your performance on the court. Squash is a fast-paced and physically demanding sport that requires agility, precision, and strategic thinking. Welcome to this guide, where we will provide you with a range of practice drills to improve your footwork, shots, accuracy, and overall game. By incorporating these drills into your training regimen, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a formidable opponent on the squash court.

Coaching

Welcome to the world of squash coaching, where passion meets precision, and every swing of the racket counts. Squash is a fast-paced, exhilarating sport that demands physical prowess and strategic finesse. Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn the fundamentals or an experienced player seeking to elevate your game to new heights, coaching can be the key to unlocking your full potential on the court. With the guidance of a skilled coach, you can refine your technique, enhance your tactical understanding, and cultivate the mental resilience needed to outmaneuver your opponents. Get ready to embark on a transformative journey as we delve into the art of squash and explore the countless ways coaching can improve your performance and ignite your passion for this dynamic sport.

 

FAQs

Q1. How can I improve my squash game?

There are several ways to improve your squash game:

• Focus on your technique and footwork, essential for better control and movement on the court.
• Work on your fitness levels to enhance your stamina and agility. Practice solo and with a partner regularly to refine your shots and develop a strategic game plan.
• Consider seeking guidance from a qualified squash coach to receive personalized feedback and training.

Q2. What are some drills I can do to improve my squash skills?

There are various drills you can incorporate into your squash training routine. Here are a few examples:

• Ghosting- Practice moving around the court without a ball, mimicking different shots and footwork patterns.
• Boast and Drive- Alternate hitting boasts (shots of the side wall) and drives (shots along the side wall) to improve accuracy and control.
• Drop Shot Challenge- Aim to consistently hit accurate drop shots close to the front wall.
• Conditioned Games- Play modified games that emphasize specific shots or strategies, such as playing only boasts or focusing on volleying.

Q3. How important is physical fitness for squash?

Physical fitness plays a crucial role in squash. The sport demands quick movements, endurance, and agility. Being physically fit allows you to cover the court efficiently, react swiftly to shots, and maintain a high level of performance throughout a match. Incorporate cardio exercises, strength training, and flexibility activities into your training regimen to improve your overall fitness for squash.

Q4. Can you recommend any specific exercises for squash players?

Absolutely! Here are a few exercises beneficial for squash players:

• Cardiovascular- Running, cycling, interval training, and skipping rope to improve endurance and stamina.
• Plyometrics- Exercises like squat, lateral, and box jumps enhance explosive power and agility.
• Core Strength- Planks, Russian twists, and medicine ball exercises to strengthen the core, aiding stability and control.
• Flexibility- Incorporate stretches targeting the hips, shoulders, and lower back to improve range of motion and prevent injuries.

Q5. How can I develop a better shot selection in squash?

Shot selection in squash is crucial for gaining an advantage over your opponent. To develop better shot selection skills:

• Focus on studying the game and observing professional players.
• Analyze their tactics, shot choices, and court positioning.
• Practice different shot variations during training sessions to become comfortable executing them in game situations.

Additionally, playing practice matches with other opponents will expose you to various playing styles, helping you refine your shot-selection abilities.

Q6. What mental strategies can I use to improve my squash performance?

Squash is not only a physically demanding sport but also mentally challenging. To improve your performance, consider the following mental strategies:

• Focus on the present moment- Concentrate on each shot without dwelling on past mistakes or anticipating future outcomes.
• Visualize success- Before matches or during training, visualize yourself executing shots with precision and winning points.
• Develop a resilient mindset- Embrace challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning.
• Practice mindfulness or meditation- Cultivate mental clarity and relaxation, which can positively impact your performance on the court.

Conclusion

In conclusion, improving your squash game requires dedication, practice, and a strategic approach. By focusing on key areas such as technique, fitness, strategy, and mental toughness, you can elevate your game and achieve greater success on the court. Remember to work on your grip, footwork, and swing mechanics to ensure proper form and maximize power and accuracy in your shots. Incorporating a well-rounded fitness routine will enhance your agility, endurance, and strength, allowing you to move swiftly and efficiently around the court. Additionally, understanding the game’s tactics and developing a strategic mindset will enable you to outsmart your opponents and make effective shot selections. Lastly, cultivating mental toughness and maintaining a positive attitude will help you stay focused, resilient, and confident during matches. With consistent effort, a growth mindset, and a passion for the sport, you can continually improve and enjoy the exhilarating and challenging game of squash. So, get on the court, implement these strategies, and watch your squash game soar to new heights.