Start Playing Squash

Start Playing Squash

When you start to play squash, it’s best, to begin with, a modified game (for example, racquetball) to develop fitness and skills. While the risk of injury from playing squash isn’t as high as in other sports, injuries that do occur may be serious.

Squash is an indoor racquet game that is played on a four-walled court. There are over 900 squash facilities. You can enjoy the occasional game of squash socially, or play competitively.

Start playing squash
Start playing squash

Squash safety suggestions:

  • Use a ball that is appropriate for your skill and fitness level. Your local squash center operator can assist.
  • Don’t enter the court when a game is in progress.
  • Keep court doors closed when playing.
  • Always wear appropriate eye protection. Prescription glasses or sunglasses won’t protect your eyes. Recommended brands are listed on the World Squash Federation website
  • Don’t stand too close to your opponent.
  • Make sure your equipment is maintained in good repair.

 

Suggestions tips:

  • If you have a medical condition, are overweight, are over 40 years old, or haven’t exercised regularly, see your doctor for a check-up.
  • Start with a slower game (for example, racquetball) before you take up squash as it will help to develop your fitness and skills.
  • Maintain fitness levels with aerobic (walking, jogging) and anaerobic activities (for example sprinting).
  • Take squash lessons from a qualified coach to develop adequate skills and techniques.
  • Respect your physical limitations. Don’t continue playing when you’re fatigued.
  • Wear cool clothing that ‘breathes’, such as cotton.
  • Drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after the game.
  • Have your shoes professionally fitted.
  • Warm up thoroughly before playing. Include jogging on the spot and plenty of stretching.
  • Allow sufficient time to cool down afterward. Stretching is an important part of your cool-down routine.

 

Pre-exercise screening is used to identify people with medical conditions that may put them at a higher risk of experiencing a health problem during physical activity. It is a filter or ‘safety net’ to help decide if the potential benefits of exercise outweigh the risks for you. Print a copy of the pre-exercise screening tool and discuss it with your doctor or exercise professional.