How to Play Squash

Squash is a fast-paced game, so keep your eyes on the ball and follow these simple steps.

Step 1: Serve the ball
Hold the racket with a tight grip. Hit the ball onto the front wall above the service line in the squash court. The ball must bounce in the quarter court where your opponent is standing, unless they volley.

Step 2: Return the serve
Your opponent returns the serve by hitting the ball before it bounces on the floor, called a volley, or after it has bounced once. The ball must hit the front wall below the out line, but may hit the back or side walls first.

Tip
Learn your opponent's strengths and weaknesses.

Step 3: Strategize your play
Alternate hitting the ball with your opponent.

Step 4: Alternate servers
Change servers when the ball bounces more than once, bounces before hitting the wall, or goes out of bounds.

Tip
Give your opponent room to take their shot; if interference occurs, it is a let and the point is replayed.

Step 5: Score points
Give a scoring point only to the server. The first player to nine points is the winner. Squash matches usually have five games.

Did You Know?
Squash originated in London in the nineteenth century.