Squash is a fun and challenging sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. But how hard is it to learn squash? The answer may surprise you – with the right guidance and practice, anyone can become proficient in this exciting sport. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the learning curve of squash and provide tips and techniques to help beginners master the game. From basic movements to advanced strategies, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get started on your squash journey. So grab your racquet and let’s get ready to hit the court!
Understanding the Basics of Squash
The Essential Equipment for Playing Squash
Before embarking on your squash journey, it is essential to acquire the necessary equipment to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The following are the basic pieces of equipment that you will need to play squash:
Racket
The racket is the most critical piece of equipment for playing squash. It is typically made of carbon fiber or composite materials and is designed to be lightweight and maneuverable. When selecting a racket, consider factors such as weight, balance, and grip size. It is advisable to choose a racket that fits your playing style and preferences.
Squash ball
The squash ball is a small, rubber ball that is used in squash games. It is designed to bounce erratically and unpredictably, making it challenging to hit with accuracy. Squash balls come in different colors and weights, with the most common being the yellow dot ball and the red dot ball. The yellow dot ball is used for beginners, while the red dot ball is used for more advanced players.
Eyewear
Eyewear is an essential piece of equipment for playing squash, as it protects your eyes from the impact of the squash ball. Squash-specific eyewear is designed to be lightweight and provide excellent visibility on the court. When selecting eyewear, look for a frame that fits comfortably and has a polycarbonate lens for maximum protection.
Court shoes
Court shoes are designed specifically for playing squash and provide the necessary support and traction needed on the court. They are typically lightweight and have a non-marking sole to prevent scuff marks on the court. When selecting court shoes, consider factors such as comfort, support, and durability. It is also essential to choose a shoe that fits well and provides excellent traction on different court surfaces.
The Fundamentals of Squash: Grip, Stance, and Footwork
Grip Techniques
The grip is one of the most critical aspects of playing squash. It is the foundation of your shot and the way you hold the racket determines the accuracy and power of your shots. A proper grip should be comfortable, relaxed, and provide you with control over the racket.
The traditional grip is known as the “continental grip.” It is characterized by the thumb, index, and middle fingers on the handle, while the other fingers are wrapped around the bottom of the handle. This grip provides excellent control and power for shots, but it can take some time to develop the necessary hand strength to use it effectively.
Another grip that is becoming increasingly popular is the “semi-western grip.” It is similar to the traditional grip, but the index finger is placed on the side of the handle instead of on top. This grip is popular among players who prefer a more comfortable grip and can provide additional power for shots.
Stance and Balance
Your stance is the foundation of your movement on the court. It is essential to find a stance that is comfortable, stable, and allows you to move quickly and efficiently in any direction.
A good stance is characterized by a wide, athletic stance with the feet shoulder-width apart. The knees should be slightly bent, and the weight should be distributed evenly on both feet. The body should be upright, with the shoulders back and down, and the head up.
Balance is also critical in squash. It is essential to maintain your balance during shots, movements, and changes of direction. Practice your balance by standing on one foot, shifting your weight, and performing various movements on the court.
Basic Footwork Patterns
Footwork is the foundation of squash. It is essential to develop a solid understanding of basic footwork patterns to move efficiently and effectively around the court.
The most common footwork pattern is the “drive.” It involves moving forward and hitting the ball with a powerful shot. The drive is used to gain territory and put pressure on your opponent.
Another essential footwork pattern is the “drop shot.” It involves moving backwards and hitting the ball with a soft, low shot that drops quickly to the floor. The drop shot is used to gain space and catch your opponent off guard.
Developing your footwork takes time and practice. It is essential to work on your footwork patterns in isolation before incorporating them into your game. Start by practicing the basic footwork patterns, such as the drive and drop shot, and gradually build up your speed and complexity.
Basic Squash Shots: Drive, Volley, and Drop
Drive
The drive is one of the most fundamental shots in squash, and it involves hitting the ball straight at the front wall of the court. This shot is used when you are close to the front wall and want to keep the ball deep in your opponent’s court. To execute a drive, you should stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, with your dominant eye focused on the front wall and your non-dominant eye focused on the ball. You should use a cocked wrist and a slight shoulder turn to hit the ball with a flat trajectory, ensuring that it bounces off the front wall before it reaches the back wall.
Volley
The volley is another essential shot in squash, and it involves playing the ball off the wall after it has bounced once. This shot is used when you are farther away from the front wall and need to return the ball to your opponent’s court. To execute a volley, you should stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, with your dominant eye focused on the ball and your non-dominant eye focused on the front wall. You should use a cocked wrist and a slight shoulder turn to hit the ball with a flat trajectory, ensuring that it bounces off the front wall before it reaches the back wall.
Drop
The drop is a soft shot that is used to slow down the pace of the game and to give your opponent a chance to make a mistake. To execute a drop, you should stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, with your dominant eye focused on the ball and your non-dominant eye focused on the front wall. You should use a cocked wrist and a slight shoulder turn to hit the ball with a low trajectory, ensuring that it bounces twice before it reaches the back wall.
In summary, mastering the basic squash shots of drive, volley, and drop is essential for beginners who want to improve their game. These shots involve different techniques and strategies, and it is important to practice them regularly to develop good form and accuracy. With time and patience, you will be able to master these shots and use them effectively in your matches.
Mastering the Techniques: Drills and Practice Routines
Warm-up and Stretching Exercises
Pre-match warm-up
Before embarking on a game of squash, it is crucial to undertake a pre-match warm-up. This preparatory routine is designed to activate and loosen the muscles, increasing blood flow and readying the body for physical exertion. A pre-match warm-up typically encompasses a series of light aerobic exercises, such as jogging or cycling, accompanied by dynamic stretching movements.
Dynamic stretching exercises
Dynamic stretching exercises involve active movements that gradually increase the range of motion of the joints. These exercises are particularly beneficial for squash players, as they target the muscles utilized during a game, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, and hip flexors. Some examples of dynamic stretching exercises include leg swings, lunges, and arm circles.
It is essential to perform these exercises with control and gradually increase the intensity and duration of each movement. Dynamic stretching should be performed for 5-10 minutes before beginning a game of squash, ensuring that the muscles are adequately prepared for the physical demands of the sport.
Building Core Strength and Endurance
As a beginner in squash, building core strength and endurance is essential to improve your performance on the court. A strong core helps you maintain balance, generate power, and prevent injuries. Here are some exercises to help you build your core strength and endurance:
Abdominal Exercises
- Plank: Hold a plank position for 30-60 seconds, building up to 2 minutes.
- Russian twists: Sit on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat, holding a weight or medicine ball. Twist your torso from side to side, completing 10-15 repetitions on each side.
- Bicycle crunches: Lie on your back with your hands behind your head, alternating bringing each elbow to the opposite knee. Perform 10-15 repetitions.
- Leg raises: Lie on your back and raise your legs straight up towards the ceiling, then lower them without touching the floor. Perform 10-15 repetitions.
Cardiovascular Exercises
- Running: Sprinting and running are excellent cardiovascular exercises that can help improve your endurance on the court. Start with short intervals of 30 seconds of sprinting followed by 30 seconds of jogging, gradually increasing the intervals to 1 minute of sprinting and 1 minute of jogging.
- Jumping rope: Jumping rope is a high-intensity cardiovascular exercise that can help improve your footwork, agility, and coordination. Start with 30 seconds of jumping rope and gradually increase the time to 1 minute, aiming for 3-5 minutes of continuous jumping.
- Cycling: Indoor cycling classes or outdoor cycling are excellent cardiovascular exercises that can help improve your leg strength and endurance. Start with 20-minute sessions and gradually increase the duration to 45 minutes or an hour.
By incorporating these exercises into your training routine, you can improve your core strength and endurance, enabling you to perform better on the squash court.
Drills for Improving Technique and Control
As a beginner in squash, it is essential to develop good technique and control to excel in the sport. One way to achieve this is by incorporating specific drills into your practice routine. In this section, we will discuss some drills that can help improve your technique and control on the squash court.
Ball Control Drills
Ball control drills are essential for developing the ability to hit the ball accurately and consistently. These drills focus on improving your ability to control the ball’s direction and speed, which is crucial for success in squash. Some examples of ball control drills include:
- Hitting the ball against a wall: This drill involves hitting the ball against a wall and attempting to hit it back into the court. This drill helps improve your ability to control the ball’s direction and speed.
- Soft hits: This drill involves hitting the ball softly and aiming for specific targets on the court. This drill helps improve your accuracy and control when hitting the ball.
Movement and Agility Drills
Movement and agility drills are crucial for developing the ability to move quickly and efficiently around the court. These drills focus on improving your footwork, balance, and coordination, which are essential skills for success in squash. Some examples of movement and agility drills include:
- Shuffle drill: This drill involves shuffling sideways across the court while hitting the ball. This drill helps improve your footwork and coordination.
- Jumping drill: This drill involves jumping and hitting the ball while in the air. This drill helps improve your balance and coordination.
Volley and Drop Shot Drills
Volley and drop shot drills are essential for developing the ability to hit these shots accurately and consistently. These drills focus on improving your technique and control when hitting the ball, which is crucial for success in squash. Some examples of volley and drop shot drills include:
- Volley practice: This drill involves practicing your volley by hitting the ball back and forth with a partner. This drill helps improve your technique and control when hitting the ball.
- Drop shot practice: This drill involves practicing your drop shot by hitting the ball with a controlled, lofted shot. This drill helps improve your technique and control when hitting the ball.
Incorporating these drills into your practice routine can help improve your technique and control on the squash court. By focusing on specific skills and abilities, you can become a more well-rounded player and excel in the sport.
Match Simulation Drills for Building Confidence and Strategy
- Scrimmage drills
- One-on-one scrimmages
- Basic forehand and backhand shots
- Volley and drop shots
- Movement and positioning
- Two-on-two scrimmages
- Basic teamwork and communication
- Offensive and defensive strategies
- Covering the court effectively
- One-on-one scrimmages
- Tactical drills
- Drills focused on specific tactics
- Serving and returning
- Attacking and defending the front of the court
- Moving to the front of the court from the back
- Drills focused on specific tactics
- Match analysis and strategy development
- Analyzing footage of professional matches
- Identifying common strategies and tactics
- Analyzing individual techniques and skills
- Developing personalized strategies
- Identifying strengths and weaknesses
- Developing a plan for improvement
- Analyzing footage of professional matches
Scrimmage Drills
Scrimmage drills are designed to simulate real-life match scenarios and help players build confidence and strategy in a game setting. They are a crucial part of a beginner’s practice routine, as they allow players to apply the techniques they have learned in a controlled environment.
One-on-one scrimmages are an excellent way for beginners to get used to the speed and intensity of a real match. They can practice basic forehand and backhand shots, as well as volley and drop shots, while also working on their movement and positioning on the court.
Two-on-two scrimmages are a great way to introduce teamwork and communication to beginners. They can practice working together to execute offensive and defensive strategies, while also learning how to cover the court effectively.
Tactical Drills
Tactical drills are designed to focus on specific tactics and techniques used in squash. They help players develop their skills and strategies in a particular area of the game.
For example, serving and returning drills can help beginners develop their skills in these crucial areas of the game. Attacking and defending the front of the court drills can help players develop their offensive and defensive strategies, while moving to the front of the court from the back drills can help players improve their transition skills.
Match Analysis and Strategy Development
Match analysis and strategy development are essential components of improving as a squash player. By analyzing footage of professional matches, beginners can identify common strategies and tactics used by top players. They can also analyze individual techniques and skills to identify areas for improvement.
Developing personalized strategies is also crucial for beginners. By identifying their strengths and weaknesses, they can develop a plan for improvement that focuses on their individual needs. This can include developing specific tactics for attacking and defending, as well as strategies for moving around the court effectively.
Overall, match simulation drills are an essential part of a beginner’s practice routine. They help build confidence and strategy, while also preparing players for the intensity and speed of real-life matches. By incorporating these drills into their practice routine, beginners can improve their skills and become more competitive players.
Developing Your Squash Game: Strategies and Tactics
The Mental Game: Focus, Confidence, and Match Psychology
Visualization Techniques
Visualization techniques involve mentally rehearsing specific actions and outcomes in your mind. By visualizing yourself performing certain shots or playing through match scenarios, you can enhance your muscle memory, increase your confidence, and improve your overall performance on the court. To effectively use visualization techniques, set aside time each day to mentally rehearse specific aspects of your game. Start by closing your eyes and imagining yourself making shots, moving around the court, and dealing with different game situations.
Positive Self-Talk
Positive self-talk is an essential component of the mental game. It involves using encouraging and uplifting language to motivate yourself during matches. Instead of focusing on negative thoughts or self-doubt, use positive affirmations to build confidence and stay focused on your goals. For example, instead of saying “I can’t do this,” say “I’m capable of making this shot.” Positive self-talk can help you stay calm and focused, even in high-pressure situations.
Mental Preparation for Matches
Mental preparation for matches involves getting yourself in the right mindset before stepping onto the court. This includes setting goals, visualizing success, and developing a pre-match routine. To prepare mentally for a match, start by setting specific, achievable goals for yourself. This could include winning a certain number of points, maintaining focus throughout the match, or making specific shots. Then, visualize yourself successfully achieving these goals, and create a pre-match routine that helps you get in the right mindset, such as listening to music or doing light stretching.
By developing your mental game, you can improve your focus, build confidence, and perform at your best on the squash court. Remember, the mental game is just as important as the physical game, so take the time to develop these skills and watch your game improve.
Developing a Winning Strategy: Understanding the Court and Opponents
Understanding the Squash Court Dimensions
Squash is played on a rectangular court with walls and a ceiling, measuring 18 meters by 9 meters (59 feet by 30 feet). The court is divided into two halves by a central line, with a rectangle in the center called the “serving box.” Players must stand behind the back wall when serving, and the ball must be hit in such a way that it bounces on the opponent’s side of the court before they can return it. Understanding the dimensions of the court is crucial for positioning oneself correctly and strategically.
Reading Opponents’ Styles and Weaknesses
Every player has a unique style and weaknesses, which can be exploited to gain an advantage on the court. By observing your opponent’s playstyle, you can identify their strengths and weaknesses and develop a strategy to counter them. Some common weaknesses include slow footwork, poor shot selection, and lack of agility. To exploit these weaknesses, focus on moving quickly and decisively, hitting precise shots, and maintaining a high level of fitness.
Adapting to Different Playing Situations
Squash is a dynamic sport, and the pace and style of play can change rapidly. Adapting to different playing situations is crucial for success on the court. For example, if your opponent is using a lot of drop shots, you may need to adjust your strategy to focus on returning these shots effectively. Alternatively, if your opponent is playing aggressively, you may need to adjust your positioning and shot selection to counter their attacks. The ability to adapt to different playing situations is a key skill that can help you become a more effective squash player.
Advanced Squash Shots and Tactics
Lobs and Lob Shots
Lobs are a crucial part of advanced squash gameplay. They involve hitting the ball high up on the wall, making it bounce unpredictably, which can disorient your opponent and create an opportunity for you to attack. Here are some tips for executing lob shots effectively:
- Stand in a comfortable position, with your feet shoulder-width apart and your weight distributed evenly on both feet.
- Bend your knees slightly and keep your eyes fixed on the ball as it approaches you.
- Use a controlled, smooth motion to hit the ball with a flat racquet face, ensuring that you hit it high enough to clear your opponent’s strike zone.
- Practice different types of lobs, such as soft lobs, which are aimed at the front of the court, and hard lobs, which are aimed further back.
Boasts and Attacking Shots
Boasts are offensive shots that involve hitting the ball hard and low, forcing your opponent to move quickly and making it difficult for them to return the ball. Here’s how to execute a boast shot:
- Stand close to the front wall, with your racquet in the ready position.
- As the ball approaches you, take a short, quick step forward and begin your swing.
- Hit the ball with a racquet face that’s slightly open, aiming for a low, hard shot that bounces twice on the floor.
- Be prepared to move forward or backward depending on your opponent’s return.
The Wall as a Strategic Tool
The wall is a critical aspect of squash strategy, as it can be used to your advantage in several ways. Here are some wall-related tactics to consider:
- Cornering your opponent: Position yourself in the corner of the court and hit the ball high, making it bounce on the opposite side of the wall. This forces your opponent to move into the corner and can make it harder for them to see the ball coming.
- Forcing errors: Hit the ball so that it bounces unpredictably on the wall, making it difficult for your opponent to return it. This tactic can be especially effective when your opponent is off-balance or caught off guard.
- Attacking the front wall: When your opponent is at the back of the court, look for opportunities to hit the ball hard and low to the front wall. This puts pressure on your opponent and forces them to react quickly.
By mastering these advanced squash shots and tactics, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a formidable opponent on the squash court. Remember to practice regularly, be patient, and always be on the lookout for new strategies and techniques to improve your game.
Advanced Drills and Practice Routines for Advanced Players
- Advanced Ball Control Drills
- 1. Wall Drill:
- Stand a few feet away from a wall and hit the ball at various speeds and angles.
- Focus on accuracy and control, aiming for specific spots on the wall.
- 2. Figure Eight Drill:
- Hit the ball in a figure-eight pattern around your body.
- Vary the speed and direction of the ball to improve your ability to change direction quickly.
- 3. Boast Drill:
- Stand close to the front wall and hit the ball high and hard into the opposite corner.
- Practice this shot to increase your power and accuracy when boasting.
- 1. Wall Drill:
- Advanced Movement and Agility Drills
- 1. Ladder Drill:
- Set up a ladder in the court and move up and down it while hitting the ball.
- Focus on quick feet and efficient movement, practicing different types of footwork.
- 2. Shuffle Drill:
- Shuffle sideways across the court while hitting the ball.
- This drill helps improve your balance and coordination, as well as your ability to move sideways.
- 3. Jumping Drill:
- Jump in the air and hit the ball while in mid-air.
- This drill helps improve your timing and coordination, as well as your ability to hit the ball while in motion.
- 1. Ladder Drill:
- Advanced Tactical Drills
- 1. Two-Player Drill:
- Play squash with a partner, with one player serving and the other playing defense.
- Focus on reading your opponent’s shots and adapting your strategy accordingly.
- 2. Third-Player Drill:
- Play squash with three players, with one player serving and the other two playing defense.
- This drill helps improve your ability to work as a team and read your opponents’ shots.
- 3. Situational Drill:
- Practice specific situations, such as serving in different situations or playing from behind.
- This drill helps improve your ability to think on your feet and adapt to different situations.
- 1. Two-Player Drill:
Squash Injury Prevention and Care
Common Squash Injuries and Their Prevention
Squash is a physically demanding sport that requires speed, agility, and endurance. As a result, it is common for players to experience injuries, particularly those who are new to the sport. However, by understanding the most common squash injuries and implementing preventative measures, players can significantly reduce their risk of injury.
Warm-up and cool-down techniques
One of the most effective ways to prevent injury in squash is to warm up and cool down properly. A proper warm-up should include a dynamic stretching routine that increases blood flow to the muscles and prepares the body for physical activity. This can include activities such as jogging, jumping jacks, and light stretching.
After a match or training session, it is important to cool down to prevent stiffness and soreness. This can include static stretching, light jogging, and light strength training. A cool-down routine should be tailored to the individual’s needs and should take approximately 10-15 minutes.
Stretching exercises
In addition to a proper warm-up and cool-down, stretching exercises can help prevent squash injuries. These exercises should focus on the muscles and joints used in squash, including the legs, back, and shoulders.
One effective stretching exercise is the hamstring stretch, which involves standing with one foot forward and leaning forward to stretch the back leg. Another effective exercise is the calf stretch, which involves standing with one foot forward and leaning forward to stretch the calf muscle.
Proper footwear and court shoes
Proper footwear is essential for preventing squash injuries. Court shoes should provide adequate support and cushioning to reduce the impact of running and jumping on the feet and ankles. Additionally, they should have a non-slip sole to prevent slips and falls on the court.
It is important to properly break in new court shoes before wearing them for an extended period of time. This can include wearing them for short periods of time and gradually increasing the amount of time worn. Additionally, it is important to replace court shoes every 6-12 months to ensure they continue to provide adequate support and cushioning.
Injury Management and Rehabilitation
- Rest and Recovery: One of the most crucial aspects of injury management and rehabilitation is rest and recovery. Players must allow their bodies adequate time to heal and recover from injuries, which often involves taking a break from squash and other physical activities.
- Ice and Heat Therapy: Applying ice or heat to an injured area can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Icing can be used to reduce swelling and pain immediately after an injury, while heat therapy can be used to improve circulation and relax muscles before physical activity.
- Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Stretching and strengthening exercises are essential for injury prevention and rehabilitation. These exercises can help improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion, reducing the risk of injury and aiding in recovery. It is recommended that players consult with a physical therapist or certified athletic trainer to develop a customized stretching and strengthening program that addresses their specific needs and goals.
By following these injury management and rehabilitation techniques, players can minimize the risk of injury and promote faster recovery times, allowing them to return to the court and continue to improve their squash skills.
Injury Prevention and Care Tips for Matches
Proper hydration is crucial to prevent injury during squash matches. Players should drink water before, during, and after matches to stay hydrated. Dehydration can lead to cramps, dizziness, and heatstroke, which can cause players to leave the court or suffer from injuries. It is recommended to drink at least 2-3 liters of water per day, and to carry a water bottle during matches to ensure that players can stay hydrated throughout the game.
Energy supplements such as sports drinks, energy gels, or bars can provide an extra boost of energy during matches. These supplements contain carbohydrates and electrolytes that can help maintain energy levels and prevent fatigue. However, it is important to note that consuming too much sugar can lead to weight gain and other health problems, so it is recommended to consume these supplements in moderation.
An emergency first aid kit should be readily available during matches in case of any injuries. The kit should contain basic first aid items such as bandages, adhesive tape, scissors, and pain relievers. It is also recommended to have a list of emergency contact numbers for medical professionals in case of severe injuries. Players should also be aware of the location of the nearest hospital or medical facility in case of an emergency.
Additionally, players should take regular breaks during matches to stretch and rest their muscles. This can help prevent injuries such as cramps, strains, and sprains. It is recommended to take a 2-3 minute break every 10-15 minutes of play to stretch and rest.
In conclusion, injury prevention and care tips for matches include proper hydration, energy supplements, an emergency first aid kit, and regular breaks to stretch and rest. By following these tips, players can reduce the risk of injury and stay in top physical condition throughout the match.
FAQs
1. What is the best age to start learning squash?
There is no specific age to start learning squash. As long as a child has the basic motor skills, they can start learning the sport. In fact, many squash clubs have special programs for children as young as three years old.
2. What skills are required to play squash?
To play squash, you need to have good hand-eye coordination, agility, and physical fitness. Squash requires the ability to move quickly and hit the ball with precision. You also need to have good reflexes and hand-eye coordination to hit the ball accurately.
3. How long does it take to learn the basics of squash?
The amount of time it takes to learn the basics of squash depends on the individual. Some people may pick up the sport quickly, while others may take longer. On average, it takes about six to eight weeks to learn the basic skills of squash, such as hitting the ball and moving around the court.
4. Is it difficult to learn squash?
Squash can be challenging to learn, especially for beginners. However, with dedication and practice, anyone can learn to play the sport. It’s important to have patience and to start with the basics, such as learning how to hold the racquet and hit the ball.
5. What are some common mistakes beginners make when learning squash?
Common mistakes beginners make when learning squash include not bending their knees, not using their legs to move around the court, and not keeping their eye on the ball. It’s also important to practice good footwork and to keep the racquet in front of your body.
6. What are the benefits of learning squash?
The benefits of learning squash include improved cardiovascular fitness, increased flexibility, and improved hand-eye coordination. Squash is also a social sport, and playing regularly can help you meet new people and make friends.
7. Where can I find a squash court to practice?
You can find squash courts at many gyms, sports clubs, and community centers. You can also check with your local YMCA or community center to see if they have a squash court available for use. Some universities and colleges also have squash courts that are open to the public.
8. How often should I practice to improve my squash skills?
To improve your squash skills, it’s recommended to practice at least three times a week. However, the more you practice, the faster you will improve. It’s important to have a balance between practice and rest, as overtraining can lead to injury.
9. What equipment do I need to play squash?
To play squash, you need a squash racquet and a squash ball. You can purchase these items at most sporting goods stores or online. It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable athletic clothing and shoes that provide good support.
10. Is it safe to play squash during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Squash is a safe sport to play during the COVID-19 pandemic, as long as proper precautions are taken. This includes wearing a mask, maintaining social distancing, and regularly washing your hands. Some squash courts may also have enhanced cleaning protocols in place to ensure the safety of players.