New to squash? Caught a game at your local leisure centre and can’t quite figure out what’s going on? Keen to swot up on the sport before its Olympic Games debut in LA in 2028?
Whatever your reason for wanting to learn more about the sport with a fascinating history, if you’re looking for an activity that’s fast, fun, and a serious workout, squash is the pick for you.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get started, from the sport’s history to how scoring works, the key skills you’ll need, and why squash might become your new obsession.
What is squash?
Squash is a fast-paced racquet sport played on an indoor court with four walls. Players – playing in either singles or doubles – take turns hitting a small rubber ball against the front wall, aiming to make it as difficult as possible for their opponent to return before it bounces twice. This test of speed, skill, and strategy is why squash is sometimes described as “chess at 100 miles an hour”.
What is the history of squash?
It’s often true that the quirkier the sport, the quirkier its origins. And squash certainly falls under that theme, originating around 1830 at Harrow School when students discovered that a punctured rubber ball made the game more challenging than traditional racquets games, because it “squashed” on impact and varied in flight and bounce. It didn’t take them long to come up with a name.
The first purpose-built outdoor courts appeared in the 1860s and its frenetic and high-velocity format quickly caught on. By the 20th century, standardised rules and courts were in place, with the Squash Rackets Association (now England Squash) founded in 1928, followed by the World Squash Federation in 1967.
What do I need to play squash?
Squash may be endlessly challenging to master, but it’s easy to get started, making it a favourite for everyone from casual players to world-class athletes. Once you’ve located your local court to hire, all you need to get going is a squash racquet (usually graphite or a composite material), and a squash ball. Balls come in different levels of bounce, marked by coloured dots. Beginners tend to start with a bouncier red dot ball before progressing to slower, less bouncy options. The pros play with yellow double dot balls.
You’ll also need non-marking indoor court shoes for grip and protection, plus comfortable sportswear. Protective eyewear is recommended, especially for younger players, since squash balls can travel at high speeds.
The great thing about squash is that you don’t need to spend a fortune to start. Many local clubs and leisure centres provide courts and loan equipment for a small fee, so you can try the sport before shelling out on your own gear.
How does scoring work?
Matches are usually played best of three or five games, with each game to 11 points. Squash uses rally scoring, meaning a point is scored on every rally, regardless of who served. If the score reaches 10–10, a player must win by two points.
You’ll score a point if your opponent:
- Fails to return the ball before it bounces twice
- Hits the ball out of court
- Hits the tin at the bottom of the front wall
- Misses the ball completely
- Commits an obstruction or interference fault
Where can I play squash?
Squash is primarily an indoor sport, so the best place to play is on a standard court at your local club or leisure centre. Jayne Robinson of Pontefract Squash Club encourages people considering squash not to be shy, “Go into your nearest club, find out who the key person is – whether they’re a coach or just someone who loves the game – and have a go. Whether you’ve never played before or you’re a returning player, just give it a try. Loads of people say to me, ‘I’ve got the bug now. I’ve got the squash bug.’”
Jayne also adds that you don’t always need a formal court to practise. Some players enjoy simply hitting against a flat wall in a park, gym, or schoolyard to work on technique. “The great thing about squash is you can hit on your own as well. the ball will come back to you. It’s not like tennis, where you have to cross a net and pick the ball up. You can build confidence on your own that way.”
Clubs often host social games, leagues, and coaching sessions, so whether you’re a beginner or a competitive player, there are plenty of ways to get involved.
Key Skills
“Good hand–eye coordination and a feel for where to play the ball on a squash court is key, because you’re always moving for position,” adds Jayne. “You’ve got to think where to play the ball so it’s away from you, making your opponent work so you don’t have to. That’s the key – dominate the T in squash, let your opponent run around you.
Movement is just as important as hitting. Squash requires quick footwork, balance, and the ability to recover to the central “T” after each shot. For such a physical sport, there is a lot to think about too, as Jayne points out.
“There’s a lot of psychology in squash. It’s those little differences you notice in someone who’s just got it, compared to someone who hasn’t quite. It’s almost an innate ability rather than a learned one.”
Why play squash?
Squash is a full-body workout. Running, lunging, twisting, and stretching all improve cardiovascular fitness, build strength, and enhance flexibility. And, as we’ve discussed above, it keeps the brain whirring too.
It’s also a social sport, suitable for all ages and skill levels. Whether playing singles or doubles, squash is a great way to stay active, connect with friends, or meet new people. Many players continue well into later life, making it a sport you can enjoy for years.
