Things You Need To Know Before Playing the Sport Squash
Squash is quite a challenging game because it entails the need for both physical and mental skills. It goes without saying that in playing the game, you will definitely exercise and work out your whole body physically and intellectually. If you have never tried to play squash before, perhaps now is the right time to do so.
But before that, here are some of the things you need to know about the game.
You need to warm up properly
Just like in any other game, it is important to warm up properly before you play the game. This is to reduce the possibility of letting your first game slip out of your hands. The first set usually provides you with the momentum you need in the game, and to let your first set slip away may have a significant impact on the overall result of the entire game.
You need to practice your grip
Your grip is the most important skill that is crucial if you want to excel in squash. If you are keen on learning how to play squash, then the first thing that you need to practice is your grip as squash is a fast-paced game that requires you to be prepared to hit the ball with either a forehand or a backhand stroke. Thereby, it is essential that your grip should be neutral, paving the way for a seamless hit, without the need for frequent grip adjustments.
You need to return a serve correctly
One of the basics you need to learn apart from your grip is being able to return a serve accurately. The best position to do so is to have an open stance while you are facing the front wall while watching your opponent. In the same manner, ensure that you are only a racket away from them in the event of service. This will give you an opportunity to return the serve correctly.
Don’t be afraid to lift your racket
As soon as you figure out where the ball is going, don’t be shy to lift your racket all the way up. Take your racket head back and by the time you are ready to hit the ball, you will be amazed at the options you have on where to direct it next as well as the control on the power of your shot.
Your move has an impact on your shot
Your whole body movement, whether it is in between the shots or right at the moment you make one, has a great impact on how you hit the ball. Thereby, it is imperative for you to pay close attention to your movement because timing is everything. For instance, it is best to start your swing just as you plunge into a lunge position to enable you to hit and step at the same time. In the same manner, you need to practice transferring your weight as you hit because this will provide you the optimum power to put as much pressure on your opponent as necessary.
Your position is important
Just as your movement impacts your shot, your position is of equal importance. Take advantage of the T zone in the court to be able to always be in front of your opponent instead of behind him. This position will put you in control of the pace of the game and put more power into your shots.
Practice hitting a straight drive
Having the ability to control the ball through your power shots is essential in playing squash. This entails the need for you to be able to spin the ball as necessary or hit the ball straight into the back corners from any spot on the court. This will impede your opponent to volley while giving you the opportunity to continually stay in front of them and control the pace of the game. In parallel, also learn to volley because this takes time away from your opponent.
Play with the ball that is appropriate for your level
The type of balls used in squash varies because different balls bounce differently too. Make sure to play with the pro ball only when you know that you already have mastered the strength of your shot, making the ball bounce properly.
Squash is a great game if you love to be physically and mentally challenged. For novice players, it may take some time before you recognize how addicting this sport can be. For seasoned players, it seems that nothing can stop them from getting into the game as frequently as they can.
