I’ve finally checked off something that’s been on my list for a while - starting to play squash. This weekend, I took my first real step into the sport by visiting the squash court at our society.
Having squash on my activity list for some time now, I decided it was time to act. I ordered a squash racket and ball, and headed to the court for my first session. Since I’m just beginning, I kept it simple with a solo hitting session. The goal was straightforward: get familiar with the basic elements of the game - the feel of the racket, how the ball behaves when it hits the wall, the movement patterns required on the court, and the fundamental strokes of forehand and backhand.
The solo hitting session turned out to be a great way to start. Without the pressure of playing against someone, I could focus on understanding the mechanics. The squash ball has a very different bounce compared to a tennis ball - it’s much less responsive initially and requires you to really hit it hard to keep it warm and bouncy. The racket feels lighter than I expected, which is good for the quick movements the game demands.
Working on my forehand and backhand strokes, I started to appreciate the precision required in squash. The enclosed court means every shot matters - the ball comes back to you quickly, and you need to be ready. The movement is constant, requiring quick changes in direction and good footwork to position yourself correctly for each shot.
What struck me most was how physically demanding squash is, even in a solo session. The constant movement, the quick reactions, and the need to hit the ball with enough power to keep it in play all add up to a solid workout. I can see why squash is considered one of the most intense racquet sports.
I’m looking forward to picking up squash properly in 2026. The plan is to continue with more practice sessions, work on refining my technique, and eventually start playing actual games. There’s something satisfying about adding a new sport to your repertoire, especially one that combines physical fitness with strategic thinking and quick reflexes.
Starting something new always comes with that mix of excitement and uncertainty, but that first session at the squash court gave me the confidence that this is something I can build on. Here’s to more squash sessions and steady improvement throughout 2026.