Squash and racquetball basics
by Armand Tecco, M.Ed.

If you tend to hibernate in the winter months, at least consider doing it inside the confines of a squash or racquetball court. In just 30 minutes, you will burn a lot of calories playing these racquet sports and stay fit - without getting cold - during the long winter season. In many ways, the activities are similar; but there are differences. Here's a quick overview:

• Racquetball is more suited to beginners because it is easier to learn. You can hit the ball against all four walls and the ceiling. The playing area is 40 ft. long, 20 ft. wide and 20 ft. high.

• Squash requires precise placement of the ball. The ball must hit above a 17" strip that runs along the front wall. The ceiling and high areas of the four walls are out of bounds. A squash court is smaller - 32 ft. long by 18 1/2 ft. wide.

• The ball used in racquetball is 2 1/4 inches in diameter, which is bigger than the 1 3/4" squash ball. The racquetball racquet generally has a larger head than a squash racket and is shorter. The squash racquet has a thinner handle. Eyeguards are necessary for both sports since the balls travel fast and can cause serious damage if they strike an eye. Quality court shoes that offer good traction on wood floors as well as good lateral support are recommended.

• To make a proper forehand grip in racquetball, hold it by the neck in your non-hitting hand with the string bed facing sideways. Then shake hands loosely with the grip, keeping your fingers extended. The "V" formed by your thumb and forefinger should be slightly to the right of the grip's center. In squash, the "V" should be slightly to the left of the center. (Lefthanders do the opposite.)

• Both sports rely on the same basic swing mechanics: For a back swing, turn your body sideways so that you face the side wall and drop your front shoulder. Keeping your wrist cocked and your elbow bent 90 degrees, pull your racket back and up until the racket points toward the ceiling. Shift your weight to your front leg, as your elbow leads your arm to the ball. Contact should be at about knee level or lower. Snap your wrist through the stroke. In racquetball, keep the face of the racquet square to the ball. In squash, slice the ball to produce a slight under spin, and finish the swing low.

• The object of both games is the same: to return each shot to the front wall before the ball bounces on the floor a second time. You can hit the ball off any wall or (in racquetball) the ceiling, in any order, as long as the ball eventually reaches the front wall before it hits the floor.

• Make sure you warm up properly before playing either sport by jogging in place or having an easy volley with your partner. After the game, stretch your entire body, paying particular attention to your shoulders, triceps, and leg muscles.

• As with any activity, these sports are not suited to all individuals. Consult with your physician if you have a medical concern that may preclude you from participating.

Disclaimer:
The information, including opinions and recommendations, contained in this website is for educational purposes only. Such information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. No one should act upon any information provided in this website without first seeking medical advice from a qualified medical physician.