Racquet Sports: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Squash Rules for Safety
Squash can actually be very dangerous, since there are two players running at full speed in a confined space, swinging racquets around while chasing a moving ball. Protective eyewear can help, but it's not the full solution. Knowing the rules is also essential. Here's where to go to learn the rules and stay safe.
Squash can actually be very dangerous, since there are two players running at full speed in a confined space, swinging racquets around while chasing a moving ball. Protective eyewear can help, but it's not the full solution. Knowing the rules is also essential. Here's where to go to learn the rules and stay safe.
Squash Tips to Play Better
You want to improve, don't you? Here are the key squash tips for how to improve your squash game most rapidly, whether you are a beginner or an intermediate player.
You want to improve, don't you? Here are the key squash tips for how to improve your squash game most rapidly, whether you are a beginner or an intermediate player.
Squash Serve - Make It Count
A good squash serve is a valuable weapon to get you into each point, and give you control of the initial exchange. Here's how to hit a good serve in squash every time. (Demonstration by squash professional Jonathan Lam.)
A good squash serve is a valuable weapon to get you into each point, and give you control of the initial exchange. Here's how to hit a good serve in squash every time. (Demonstration by squash professional Jonathan Lam.)
Official Home Badminton Court
Your home badminton court can be professional-grade. Here's how to build your home badminton court, for singles or doubles or both.
Your home badminton court can be professional-grade. Here's how to build your home badminton court, for singles or doubles or both.
US Olympic Badminton Players
In Beijing, the US has fully entered the world stage for Olympic badminton. For the first time ever, the US has badminton players qualified and competing in all five events. Here are our top US Olympic badminton players.
In Beijing, the US has fully entered the world stage for Olympic badminton. For the first time ever, the US has badminton players qualified and competing in all five events. Here are our top US Olympic badminton players.
Kenneth Jonassen of Denmark about to smash
Kenneth Jonassen of Denmark executes a badminton smash during play at the Yonex-Sunrise Hong Kong Open.
Kenneth Jonassen of Denmark executes a badminton smash during play at the Yonex-Sunrise Hong Kong Open.
Tips for a Good Squash Serve
In squash, the serve can determine the likely outcome for a point, so it's important to hit a good one. Here are tips for making the most of your opportunity to serve.
In squash, the serve can determine the likely outcome for a point, so it's important to hit a good one. Here are tips for making the most of your opportunity to serve.
How to Hit a Good Serve Return
Step by step, here's all you need to know to hit a great serve return, deal with your opponent's toughest serves, and quickly put him or her on the defensive. At the very least, you'll be back in the point, and on an even footing. You'll probably even be on the 'T', ready to dominate the point!
Step by step, here's all you need to know to hit a great serve return, deal with your opponent's toughest serves, and quickly put him or her on the defensive. At the very least, you'll be back in the point, and on an even footing. You'll probably even be on the 'T', ready to dominate the point!
Learn the Rules of Racquetball
You'll play better if you know all the rules of regulation racquetball. Begin with a sound understanding of the definitive rules of the game!
You'll play better if you know all the rules of regulation racquetball. Begin with a sound understanding of the definitive rules of the game!
Serve Return Tips for Squash
Here are three key ideas that can help you return serve effectively in squash. Implement these ideas and you'll be ready to battle for control of the squash court.
Here are three key ideas that can help you return serve effectively in squash. Implement these ideas and you'll be ready to battle for control of the squash court.
Beginner Squash Ball Control
Hit the ball about two or three feet high, straight up in the air. Keep your eyes on the ball so that you can get your racquet positioned right under it again for the next hit.
Hit the ball about two or three feet high, straight up in the air. Keep your eyes on the ball so that you can get your racquet positioned right under it again for the next hit.
Holding Your Squash Racquet
Squash is a very fast game, and it demands precision and power in your shot-making. Here's your most effective squash grip for meeting those demands of the sport.
Squash is a very fast game, and it demands precision and power in your shot-making. Here's your most effective squash grip for meeting those demands of the sport.
Vary the Serve to Win a Point
Sometimes in a long, hard squash match, you just need to get one more point on the score board to break your opponent's spirit and start a series of several winning points. Here's how you can score that one quick point, by varying your serve.
Sometimes in a long, hard squash match, you just need to get one more point on the score board to break your opponent's spirit and start a series of several winning points. Here's how you can score that one quick point, by varying your serve.
Racquetball Back Wall Drill
The back wall drive drill is a great racquetball practice session. It teaches you how to hit good forehand drives off of your opponent's shot coming off the back wall. Here's how to perform the racquetball back wall drive drill to best effect.
The back wall drive drill is a great racquetball practice session. It teaches you how to hit good forehand drives off of your opponent's shot coming off the back wall. Here's how to perform the racquetball back wall drive drill to best effect.
Beijing Badminton Champions
Here are the Olympic badminton medalists from the 2008 Beijing Olympic badminton championships.
Here are the Olympic badminton medalists from the 2008 Beijing Olympic badminton championships.
A Profile of Squash
Here are the key attributes of the sport of squash. This short profile quickly gives you a sense of the sport of squash, its prevalence around the world, and its complexity and history.
Here are the key attributes of the sport of squash. This short profile quickly gives you a sense of the sport of squash, its prevalence around the world, and its complexity and history.
Hit Good Racquetball Z Serves
Here are ten easy steps to hitting the Z serve in racquetball. Being able to hit the Z serve, using the same service preparation as for the straight and cross-court drive serves, gives you a great way to keep your opponent guessing.
Here are ten easy steps to hitting the Z serve in racquetball. Being able to hit the Z serve, using the same service preparation as for the straight and cross-court drive serves, gives you a great way to keep your opponent guessing.
Warm Up, Play, and Stretch
It sure is fun to jump right on court and play, but that may not be the healthiest approach. You'll play better, and more safely, if you warm up first, and stretch afterwards.
It sure is fun to jump right on court and play, but that may not be the healthiest approach. You'll play better, and more safely, if you warm up first, and stretch afterwards.
Nova Widianto and Liliyana Natsir (INA)
Nova Widianto and Liliyana Natsir in mixed doubles badminton competition at the Yonex All England Open.
Nova Widianto and Liliyana Natsir in mixed doubles badminton competition at the Yonex All England Open.
Ning Zhang sends the shuttle on its way
Ning Zhang of China sends the shuttle on its way in competition at the Yonex Japan Open badminton championship.
Ning Zhang of China sends the shuttle on its way in competition at the Yonex Japan Open badminton championship.
The Correct Racquetball Grip
Holding the racquet correctly is the beginning of effective hitting in racquetball. Learn the correct racquetball grip to hit with pace and precision.
Holding the racquet correctly is the beginning of effective hitting in racquetball. Learn the correct racquetball grip to hit with pace and precision.
Badminton star Chong Wei Lee concentrates and prepares another precise shot
Here are images of top-ranked Olympic badminton competitors, reflecting Badminton World Federation rankings as of April, 2008. These are the top men's singles Olympic badminton competitors to watch in Beijing!
Here are images of top-ranked Olympic badminton competitors, reflecting Badminton World Federation rankings as of April, 2008. These are the top men's singles Olympic badminton competitors to watch in Beijing!
A Profile of Jai Alai
Jai alai is an incredibly fast ball game, usually played by teams, and usually the subject of intense spectator interest and gambling. Here's a short description of this fascinating racquet (okay, basket) sport.
Jai alai is an incredibly fast ball game, usually played by teams, and usually the subject of intense spectator interest and gambling. Here's a short description of this fascinating racquet (okay, basket) sport.
Lin Zhu (China) Moving and Smashing
Lin Zhu of China leaps and smashes during play at the Yonex Korea Open badminton championship.
Lin Zhu of China leaps and smashes during play at the Yonex Korea Open badminton championship.
How to Cover a Boast in Squash
Being able to retrieve the ball when your opponent hits it short is very important in squash. Here's how to cover that boast, and punish your opponent for hitting short.
Being able to retrieve the ball when your opponent hits it short is very important in squash. Here's how to cover that boast, and punish your opponent for hitting short.
Hit a Good Crosscourt Serve
Here are nine easy steps to hitting a good crosscourt drive serve in racquetball. When you mix the racquetball crosscourt drive serve with your straight drive, lob, and z serves, you will have your opponent guessing and frustrated.
Here are nine easy steps to hitting a good crosscourt drive serve in racquetball. When you mix the racquetball crosscourt drive serve with your straight drive, lob, and z serves, you will have your opponent guessing and frustrated.
Racquetball Drive Serve - Back
As you complete the step with your rear foot, drop the ball and take your racquet back in preparation for a full swing. You should turn your shoulders back toward the back wall as well, in order to have a full windup that will give you power when you swing. A lot of the power in your shot comes from trunk rotation, so be sure to rotate your trunk during your backswing so that your shoulders face back towards the back wall.
As you complete the step with your rear foot, drop the ball and take your racquet back in preparation for a full swing. You should turn your shoulders back toward the back wall as well, in order to have a full windup that will give you power when you swing. A lot of the power in your shot comes from trunk rotation, so be sure to rotate your trunk during your backswing so that your shoulders face back towards the back wall.
Ready For The Beijing Olympics
Here are images of top-ranked Olympic badminton competitors, reflecting Badminton World Federation rankings as of April, 2008. These are the top men's singles Olympic badminton competitors to watch in Beijing!
Here are images of top-ranked Olympic badminton competitors, reflecting Badminton World Federation rankings as of April, 2008. These are the top men's singles Olympic badminton competitors to watch in Beijing!
Learn the Laws of Badminton
Learning the official rules of badminton is a must, especially if you want to graduate from backyard play to competitive play. The good news is that the rules are so well documented, and so well thought-out, that they are labeled "laws" of badminton.
Learning the official rules of badminton is a must, especially if you want to graduate from backyard play to competitive play. The good news is that the rules are so well documented, and so well thought-out, that they are labeled "laws" of badminton.
Hit a Good Serve
Your serve is only shot that you control entirely. You have time, you have placement, you have opportunity. In fact, every racquetball point begins with a serve. Learn how to hit it well, and you will be starting on a great path forward.
Your serve is only shot that you control entirely. You have time, you have placement, you have opportunity. In fact, every racquetball point begins with a serve. Learn how to hit it well, and you will be starting on a great path forward.
Racquetball Lob Serve Demo
These six steps show you how to hit a good racquetball lob serve every time. A well-hit racquetball lob serve is effective, and gives you time to prepare for the return.
These six steps show you how to hit a good racquetball lob serve every time. A well-hit racquetball lob serve is effective, and gives you time to prepare for the return.
Racquetball Defense Tips
When you're under pressure, the ceiling ball is the best racquetball defense. It gives you time to safely get back into position. Here are three quick tips for how to employ this racquetball defense.
When you're under pressure, the ceiling ball is the best racquetball defense. It gives you time to safely get back into position. Here are three quick tips for how to employ this racquetball defense.
Bo Zheng and Ling Gao, Chinese mixed doubles team
Bo Zheng and Ling Gao in mixed doubles competition at the Yonex All England Open
Bo Zheng and Ling Gao in mixed doubles competition at the Yonex All England Open
Winning Thoughts for Squash
During a hard-fought squash match, there’s really no time to analyze or reflect. You need simple, positive thoughts that you can remember even when you’re “brain-dead” and gasping for air. Here's how to focus on ten key ideas that can help you play your best.
During a hard-fought squash match, there’s really no time to analyze or reflect. You need simple, positive thoughts that you can remember even when you’re “brain-dead” and gasping for air. Here's how to focus on ten key ideas that can help you play your best.
Squash Backhand Rail Drill
Toss the ball with your left hand towards the side wall.
Toss the ball with your left hand towards the side wall.
Chunlai Bao stretches for a forehand
China's Chunlai Bao stretches for a precision forehand in competition in England.
China's Chunlai Bao stretches for a precision forehand in competition in England.
The Criss-Cross Drill
Toss the ball to your forehand and hit it in the air before it bounces. Watch the ball hit your strings and direct it toward the left front corner of the court. For the drill to work, you must hit the front wall first.
Toss the ball to your forehand and hit it in the air before it bounces. Watch the ball hit your strings and direct it toward the left front corner of the court. For the drill to work, you must hit the front wall first.
Flandy Limpele and Vita Marissa (Indonesia) competing in mixed doubles
Flandy Limpele and Vita Marissa (Indonesia) competing in mixed doubles at the 2008 Yonex Korea Open badminton championship
Flandy Limpele and Vita Marissa (Indonesia) competing in mixed doubles at the 2008 Yonex Korea Open badminton championship
Squash Tip - Avoid Overhitting
This squash tip explains the perils of overhitting, what overhitting is, what problems it causes, why it is so frequent, and how to avoid it. This squash tip comes from hard-earned experience, and if you take it to heart, you won't have to make the common mistake of overhitting.
This squash tip explains the perils of overhitting, what overhitting is, what problems it causes, why it is so frequent, and how to avoid it. This squash tip comes from hard-earned experience, and if you take it to heart, you won't have to make the common mistake of overhitting.
Learn to Play Badminton
Here are the fundamentals of learning to play badminton; all the key shots and techniques that can transform your backyard badminton into real competitive badminton.
Here are the fundamentals of learning to play badminton; all the key shots and techniques that can transform your backyard badminton into real competitive badminton.
A Profile of Racquetball
Here are the key attributes of the sport of racquetball. This short profile quickly gives you a sense of the excitement and accessibility of racquetball, as well as its broad appeal to players throughout North America.
Here are the key attributes of the sport of racquetball. This short profile quickly gives you a sense of the excitement and accessibility of racquetball, as well as its broad appeal to players throughout North America.
Jin Chen about to carve a forehand
Jin Chen (China) in play at the Yonex All England Open badminton championship.
Jin Chen (China) in play at the Yonex All England Open badminton championship.
Principles for Squash Practice
A good squash practice session is of great value in improving the level of your squash play. Practice sessions can be even more valuable than playing competitive matches. Here is how to design, and then enjoy a good squash practice session, every time.
A good squash practice session is of great value in improving the level of your squash play. Practice sessions can be even more valuable than playing competitive matches. Here is how to design, and then enjoy a good squash practice session, every time.
Pros and Cons of PAR Squash
Point-a-Rally (PAR) scoring has its advocates and detractors in the squash community. Here are the pros and cons of the PAR scoring system in squash.
Point-a-Rally (PAR) scoring has its advocates and detractors in the squash community. Here are the pros and cons of the PAR scoring system in squash.
ackhand Short Rails Drill
Here is a drill to help you perfect your backhand short rail shot in squash. This solo drill will help you learn to hit the ball along the side wall, using a well-controlled backhand stroke.
Here is a drill to help you perfect your backhand short rail shot in squash. This solo drill will help you learn to hit the ball along the side wall, using a well-controlled backhand stroke.
Forehand Drop & Hit - Front
The best solo practice for racquetball includes the forehand drop and hit drill. Here's how to perform the drill so you improve your forehand as quickly as possible.
The best solo practice for racquetball includes the forehand drop and hit drill. Here's how to perform the drill so you improve your forehand as quickly as possible.
The Backhand Squash Serve
The backhand squash serve has some advantages over the regular forehand serve, at least from one side of the court. Here's how to hit a backhand squash serve to best effect.
The backhand squash serve has some advantages over the regular forehand serve, at least from one side of the court. Here's how to hit a backhand squash serve to best effect.
Squash Rail Drill - The Toss
The squash rail drill is a very important part of effective solo practice in squash. Here's how to start the drill well so that you can practice your forehand straight drives, also known as 'rails'.
The squash rail drill is a very important part of effective solo practice in squash. Here's how to start the drill well so that you can practice your forehand straight drives, also known as 'rails'.
Squash Volley Drill Front View
Your squash swing always ends with a follow-through. Your first squash swing in this drill is no exception. Your racquet should travel towards your front wall target, then up and slightly around your body. An easy squash swing like this will make your next volley easy to hit.
Your squash swing always ends with a follow-through. Your first squash swing in this drill is no exception. Your racquet should travel towards your front wall target, then up and slightly around your body. An easy squash swing like this will make your next volley easy to hit.
Four Men, Four Walls, And Only One Ball
Doubles squash is a great game, offering physical and strategic challenges for squash players of all ages. It's also a great social game. Just like the University of Virginia can be called "The University", so the Racquet Club of Philadelphia can be called "The Racquet Club".
Doubles squash is a great game, offering physical and strategic challenges for squash players of all ages. It's also a great social game. Just like the University of Virginia can be called "The University", so the Racquet Club of Philadelphia can be called "The Racquet Club".
Xingfang Xie Exhibits Poise And Focus
Xingfang Xie exhibits her poise, balance, and focus during competition at the Yonex Japan Open badminton championship.
Xingfang Xie exhibits her poise, balance, and focus during competition at the Yonex Japan Open badminton championship.
A Profile of Court Tennis
Here's what court tennis is all about. This short profile gives you a sense of the sport of court tennis, its unique features, complexity, and rich history.
Here's what court tennis is all about. This short profile gives you a sense of the sport of court tennis, its unique features, complexity, and rich history.
Why Play Racquet Sports?
This article explores the unique characteristics of racquet sports that make them so appealing. It explains why and how they are better than other sports, for so many people.
This article explores the unique characteristics of racquet sports that make them so appealing. It explains why and how they are better than other sports, for so many people.
Strengthen Your Lower Arm
Most racquet sports require exceptional strength in the player's lower arm in order for them to fully control the racquet, and control their shot. Here's a great way to increase your lower arm strength.
Most racquet sports require exceptional strength in the player's lower arm in order for them to fully control the racquet, and control their shot. Here's a great way to increase your lower arm strength.
Play With a Lighter Racquet
Here's a great way to avoid tennis elbow!
Here's a great way to avoid tennis elbow!
Lan Lu exhibits control on her backhand
Lan Lu (China) exhibits control on her backhand during competition at the 2008 Yonex Korea Open badminton championship
Lan Lu (China) exhibits control on her backhand during competition at the 2008 Yonex Korea Open badminton championship
Watch the Badminton Pros
Badminton videos can show you how the professional badminton players move and hit, and execute their strategy. They also highlight badminton's tremendous worldwide popularity, and showcase the athleticism of the players. Here are some sources for great video recordings of professional badminton play.
Badminton videos can show you how the professional badminton players move and hit, and execute their strategy. They also highlight badminton's tremendous worldwide popularity, and showcase the athleticism of the players. Here are some sources for great video recordings of professional badminton play.
One Bad Way to Hold Your Squash Racquet
The hammer grip works fine for driving nails, but not for driving squash balls. When you wrap your hand tightly around the squash grip like this, you lose control over both the location and direction of the head of your racquet. If your arm is completely perpendicular to the shaft of your racquet and all four of your fingers are touching their nearest neighbor, you are probably using the hammer grip.
The hammer grip works fine for driving nails, but not for driving squash balls. When you wrap your hand tightly around the squash grip like this, you lose control over both the location and direction of the head of your racquet. If your arm is completely perpendicular to the shaft of your racquet and all four of your fingers are touching their nearest neighbor, you are probably using the hammer grip.
Racquet Sports - QuickTips
An index of QuickTips for the Racquet Sports guide site.
An index of QuickTips for the Racquet Sports guide site.
Forehand Ball Control
Watch the squash ball bounce off the front wall. You may be surprised, in this sport, how the ball bounces so little even when you hit it fairly hard. The squash ball is definitely 'squashy' and that's where the sport of squash got its name. To make this drill work well, your follow-through should not be much more than is shown in this picture. Your racquet should simply lift the ball toward the front wall and then stop, so you can pretty quickly begin the backswing for your next shot.
Watch the squash ball bounce off the front wall. You may be surprised, in this sport, how the ball bounces so little even when you hit it fairly hard. The squash ball is definitely 'squashy' and that's where the sport of squash got its name. To make this drill work well, your follow-through should not be much more than is shown in this picture. Your racquet should simply lift the ball toward the front wall and then stop, so you can pretty quickly begin the backswing for your next shot.
Groundstrokes Squash Practice
Take a full backswing and watch the ball closely as it approaches you. Be ready to step with your leading foot, or at least transfer weight onto your leading foot, as you hit the ball. Note the position of the racquet head -- it's up.
Take a full backswing and watch the ball closely as it approaches you. Be ready to step with your leading foot, or at least transfer weight onto your leading foot, as you hit the ball. Note the position of the racquet head -- it's up.
XCross Squash Volley - Back
The criss-cross squash volley drill is a great way to practice on your own. You can improve your squash volleys all by yourself, and practice good footwork and good swing technique.
The criss-cross squash volley drill is a great way to practice on your own. You can improve your squash volleys all by yourself, and practice good footwork and good swing technique.
Top Ten Ways to Stay Healthy
These are the top ten ways for you to stay healthy and injury-free as a racquet sports player.
These are the top ten ways for you to stay healthy and injury-free as a racquet sports player.
Chen Wang (Hong Kong) Confounds Her Opponent
Chen Wang of Hong Kong confounds her opponent during badminton competition at the 15th Asian Games in Doha.
Chen Wang of Hong Kong confounds her opponent during badminton competition at the 15th Asian Games in Doha.
How to Begin Kids' Squash
There are several key steps to starting your child in squash. And a few steps to avoid. Here's a parents' guide to starting your child in squash the right way, without pressure, and with maximum fun.
There are several key steps to starting your child in squash. And a few steps to avoid. Here's a parents' guide to starting your child in squash the right way, without pressure, and with maximum fun.
A True American
Howard Bach will compete in badminton for the USA at the Beijing Olympics in mens doubles and mixed doubles. Bach is already a world champion badminton player, and now looks to add Olympic medals to his collection.
Howard Bach will compete in badminton for the USA at the Beijing Olympics in mens doubles and mixed doubles. Bach is already a world champion badminton player, and now looks to add Olympic medals to his collection.
Racquetball Drive Serve -Front
Follow through by swinging your racquet forward toward the front wall.
Follow through by swinging your racquet forward toward the front wall.
A Profile of Badminton
Here are the key attributes of the sport of badminton. This short profile quickly gives you a sense of the sport of badminton, its worldwide popularity, and its great physical demands.
Here are the key attributes of the sport of badminton. This short profile quickly gives you a sense of the sport of badminton, its worldwide popularity, and its great physical demands.
Yang Yu (China) hits a backhand in women's doubles play
Yang Yu (China) hits a backhand in women's doubles play at the Yonex All England Open championship. Her mixed doubles partner Hanbin He is not pictured.
Yang Yu (China) hits a backhand in women's doubles play at the Yonex All England Open championship. Her mixed doubles partner Hanbin He is not pictured.
Big Squash Companies
If you're just starting squash and need some equipment, here are some company names you'll come across. All of these companies make good squash gear, and can help you get started with good equipment.
If you're just starting squash and need some equipment, here are some company names you'll come across. All of these companies make good squash gear, and can help you get started with good equipment.
Squash Roll Corner Drill
Toss the squash ball lightly upwards and towards the side wall, and hit it with an easy forehand stroke before it bounces. Watch the ball, and aim to hit it onto the side wall, about one foot from where the side wall joins the front wall. To make the drill simple the first time you try it, aim for the ball to hit about a foot below the red service line, and hit it softly. (You can always increase the speed of your shots later in the drill.)
Toss the squash ball lightly upwards and towards the side wall, and hit it with an easy forehand stroke before it bounces. Watch the ball, and aim to hit it onto the side wall, about one foot from where the side wall joins the front wall. To make the drill simple the first time you try it, aim for the ball to hit about a foot below the red service line, and hit it softly. (You can always increase the speed of your shots later in the drill.)
An Easy Racquet Sport to Play
Here is an overview of the easy-to-learn sport of pickleball. This short profile gives you a sense of the appeal of pickleball, its appropriateness for players of all ages, and the ease of starting to play this fun sport.
Here is an overview of the easy-to-learn sport of pickleball. This short profile gives you a sense of the appeal of pickleball, its appropriateness for players of all ages, and the ease of starting to play this fun sport.
Yawen Zhang (China) enjoys a hard-earned victory in women's doubles
Yawen Zhang (China) enjoys a hard-earned victory in women's doubles at the Yonex All-England Open badminton championship. Her mixed doubles partner, Zhongbo Xie, is not pictured.
Yawen Zhang (China) enjoys a hard-earned victory in women's doubles at the Yonex All-England Open badminton championship. Her mixed doubles partner, Zhongbo Xie, is not pictured.
Squash Glossary
This squash glossary explains common terms that you may hear your squash coach use. It can help you learn the language of the sport of squash, and speed your learning. Communication can be a challenge in a sport as international as squash, so a glossary is valuable.
This squash glossary explains common terms that you may hear your squash coach use. It can help you learn the language of the sport of squash, and speed your learning. Communication can be a challenge in a sport as international as squash, so a glossary is valuable.
Ten Bad Habits to Avoid
Squash offers a lot of scope for bad behavior of all kinds. Here's how you can remain a good sport and a good competitor, by avoiding these examples of misbehavior in squash and by following good squash etiquette.
Squash offers a lot of scope for bad behavior of all kinds. Here's how you can remain a good sport and a good competitor, by avoiding these examples of misbehavior in squash and by following good squash etiquette.
Plenty of Surface Area For a Good Cleansing
Win or lose, you will recover from your match after showering in these showers at the men's locker room at the Racquet Club of Philadelphia. You almost need a snorkel to enjoy these showers; they dump so much water on you, that you can barely breathe. It's quite a cleansing experience.
Win or lose, you will recover from your match after showering in these showers at the men's locker room at the Racquet Club of Philadelphia. You almost need a snorkel to enjoy these showers; they dump so much water on you, that you can barely breathe. It's quite a cleansing experience.
Good Fortune That Vita Is Not Taller
BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND - MARCH 13: Nova Widianto and Vita Marissa of Indonesia in action during the Yonex All England Open Badminton Championships at the National Indoor Arena (NIA) on March 13, 2004 in Birmingham, England.
BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND - MARCH 13: Nova Widianto and Vita Marissa of Indonesia in action during the Yonex All England Open Badminton Championships at the National Indoor Arena (NIA) on March 13, 2004 in Birmingham, England.
Stopping the Inflammation
The bane of many racquet sports players, plantar fasciitis can bring great pain and take pleasure from your game. Here's how to address the diagnosis and get back on court.
The bane of many racquet sports players, plantar fasciitis can bring great pain and take pleasure from your game. Here's how to address the diagnosis and get back on court.
This Grip Helps Only in Very Particular Situations
This squash grip can actually be useful in particular situations. There are times when you might need to 'choke up' on the racquet - such as when you are caught with a ball that hugs the back wall very closely. For most situations, however, this grip is way too high up the racquet. The player will lose power, and the parts of the hand extending above the leather grip will not feel very comfortable.
This squash grip can actually be useful in particular situations. There are times when you might need to 'choke up' on the racquet - such as when you are caught with a ball that hugs the back wall very closely. For most situations, however, this grip is way too high up the racquet. The player will lose power, and the parts of the hand extending above the leather grip will not feel very comfortable.
Watch the Squash Pros
Squash videos can show you how the professionals work their magic on the squash court, and the quality of the videos has gotten better over the years. The technology is now good enough to track that fast moving ball! Here are some sources for great video recordings of professional play.
Squash videos can show you how the professionals work their magic on the squash court, and the quality of the videos has gotten better over the years. The technology is now good enough to track that fast moving ball! Here are some sources for great video recordings of professional play.
The Relaxed Hammer Grip
This version of the squash 'hammer grip' isn't quite as extreme as some. The thumb is not overlapping the fingers, and there's not obvious tension in the grip. However, it fails to give the racquet holder much control over the head of the racquet. A player using this hammer grip will never reach his or her full potential in squash.
This version of the squash 'hammer grip' isn't quite as extreme as some. The thumb is not overlapping the fingers, and there's not obvious tension in the grip. However, it fails to give the racquet holder much control over the head of the racquet. A player using this hammer grip will never reach his or her full potential in squash.
About Olympic Badminton
Everything you need to know about Olympic badminton: past Olympic medal winners in badminton, rules for qualifying and playing Olympic badminton, Olympic badminton controversies, badminton photos, Beijing badminton prospects, and much more.
Everything you need to know about Olympic badminton: past Olympic medal winners in badminton, rules for qualifying and playing Olympic badminton, Olympic badminton controversies, badminton photos, Beijing badminton prospects, and much more.
Squash Backhand Volley Drill
Ten easy steps to learning how to hit a good backhand volley in squash. You don't even need a partner to practice your backhand volley.
Ten easy steps to learning how to hit a good backhand volley in squash. You don't even need a partner to practice your backhand volley.
Never Give Up in Squash
You should never give up in a squash match because the tide may turn in your favor. Here are the top ten reasons you should never give up until the very last bounce of the squash ball.
You should never give up in a squash match because the tide may turn in your favor. Here are the top ten reasons you should never give up until the very last bounce of the squash ball.
Court Tennis Tips - Serving
Court tennis is so complex that what you need to do when serving is entirely different than what you need to do when you're receiving serve. Here are essential court tennis tips for the server, in a summary form that you can put in your racquet case for handy reference whenever you change to the serving side of the court tennis court.
Court tennis is so complex that what you need to do when serving is entirely different than what you need to do when you're receiving serve. Here are essential court tennis tips for the server, in a summary form that you can put in your racquet case for handy reference whenever you change to the serving side of the court tennis court.
Too Low on the Handle
This grip is too low on the handle. Note how the heel of the palm extends into thin air below the end of the racquet handle. While racquetball players might use a grip similar to this, with respect to position on the handle, it is not particularly helpful in squash. The squash racquet is long enough for you to generate adequate pace without artificially lengthening the racquet by holding it at the very end of the grip. This grip position will lead to loss of control.
This grip is too low on the handle. Note how the heel of the palm extends into thin air below the end of the racquet handle. While racquetball players might use a grip similar to this, with respect to position on the handle, it is not particularly helpful in squash. The squash racquet is long enough for you to generate adequate pace without artificially lengthening the racquet by holding it at the very end of the grip. This grip position will lead to loss of control.
Get the Equipment You Need
Playing competitive badminton requires the right equipment. Here are some online sources for good badminton gear.
Playing competitive badminton requires the right equipment. Here are some online sources for good badminton gear.
Christmas Presents for Squash
Here's how to bring seasonal cheer to your squash player! Eight great squash gift ideas sure to make your squash player happy to celebrate Christmas, Hannukah, or the New Year.
Here's how to bring seasonal cheer to your squash player! Eight great squash gift ideas sure to make your squash player happy to celebrate Christmas, Hannukah, or the New Year.
Starting Young in Squash Helps a Lot
Juniors practicing squash drop shots during a lesson drill at the Racquet Club of Philadelphia. After hitting this drop shot, the boy will next run to the left side of the court to hit a deep backhand drive. Then back again to hit another drop shot. And so forth. In this way, he hits shots in a pattern that mimics the pattern of a real squash match. He also gets a good physical workout!
Juniors practicing squash drop shots during a lesson drill at the Racquet Club of Philadelphia. After hitting this drop shot, the boy will next run to the left side of the court to hit a deep backhand drive. Then back again to hit another drop shot. And so forth. In this way, he hits shots in a pattern that mimics the pattern of a real squash match. He also gets a good physical workout!
How to Find a Squash Partner
Here's how you can find a squash partner, in only eight easy steps!
Here's how you can find a squash partner, in only eight easy steps!
Become a Certified Squash Ref
Refereeing a squash match can be a real challenge. Here's how to learn the rules, become the best referee you can be, and get certified as an official referee by US Squash.
Refereeing a squash match can be a real challenge. Here's how to learn the rules, become the best referee you can be, and get certified as an official referee by US Squash.
Court Tennis Tips - Receiving
Court tennis is so complex that what you need to do when receiving serve is entirely different than what you need to do when you're serving. Here are essential court tennis tips for the receiver, in a summary form that you can put in your racquet case for handy reference whenever you change sides of the court tennis court.
Court tennis is so complex that what you need to do when receiving serve is entirely different than what you need to do when you're serving. Here are essential court tennis tips for the receiver, in a summary form that you can put in your racquet case for handy reference whenever you change sides of the court tennis court.
Go to Camp
Get a real boost for your racquetball game. Attend a weekend or week-long camp, and take your game to the next level! Here are a few things you should know in advance, as well.
Get a real boost for your racquetball game. Attend a weekend or week-long camp, and take your game to the next level! Here are a few things you should know in advance, as well.
How to Play "Power Zone"
Power Zone is a great squash game for juniors, designed to help girls and boys learn to control the center of the court. And, it's fun!
Power Zone is a great squash game for juniors, designed to help girls and boys learn to control the center of the court. And, it's fun!
Finding a Badminton Partner
Here's how you can find a fellow badminton player, in only seven easy steps!
Here's how you can find a fellow badminton player, in only seven easy steps!
An Intermediate Squash Drill
Move your racquet gently upwards so that the ball hits the exact center of your strings, and so that the ball will rise about two or three feet. That height will give you enough time to flip your racquet over for your next shot, but it's not so high that you will likely lose control of the ball and end the drill prematurely.
Move your racquet gently upwards so that the ball hits the exact center of your strings, and so that the ball will rise about two or three feet. That height will give you enough time to flip your racquet over for your next shot, but it's not so high that you will likely lose control of the ball and end the drill prematurely.
Deep Backhand Rail Drill
The advanced version of the backhand rail drill in squash requires hitting the ball after it bounces off of the back wall. This is a very demanding and realistic drill that can hone your backhand drives to razor sharpness. Here is how to perform this drill step by step.
The advanced version of the backhand rail drill in squash requires hitting the ball after it bounces off of the back wall. This is a very demanding and realistic drill that can hone your backhand drives to razor sharpness. Here is how to perform this drill step by step.
Perhaps the Fastest Ball Sport
Since 1889, racquets enthusiasts have been playing at the Racquet Club of Philadelphia. Today, the club offers instruction and play in squash, doubles squash, racquets, and court tennis. There are also quite a few amenities, such as fine dining, lodging, swimming, and pro shops to provide court enthusiasts with all the equipment and clothing they might ever need.
Since 1889, racquets enthusiasts have been playing at the Racquet Club of Philadelphia. Today, the club offers instruction and play in squash, doubles squash, racquets, and court tennis. There are also quite a few amenities, such as fine dining, lodging, swimming, and pro shops to provide court enthusiasts with all the equipment and clothing they might ever need.
Architecture Highlights the Sport
This is the crest above the entrance at the Racquet Club of Philadelphia. These aren't squash racquets or tennis racquets, they are racquets racquets! It's a fast game, and very exciting.
This is the crest above the entrance at the Racquet Club of Philadelphia. These aren't squash racquets or tennis racquets, they are racquets racquets! It's a fast game, and very exciting.
Court Tennis Complexities
Court Tennis is a demanding game, and its unique features make it the most complex racquet sport. These four major complexities are found in no other racquet sports.
Court Tennis is a demanding game, and its unique features make it the most complex racquet sport. These four major complexities are found in no other racquet sports.
USA Badminton's Eva Lee
Eva Lee will compete in badminton for the USA at the Beijing Olympics in women's singles and doubles, and in mixed doubles. Eva Lee is already a three-event gold medalist at the 2007 Pan American Games, and is looking to add to her medal collection.
Eva Lee will compete in badminton for the USA at the Beijing Olympics in women's singles and doubles, and in mixed doubles. Eva Lee is already a three-event gold medalist at the 2007 Pan American Games, and is looking to add to her medal collection.
Protect Your Eyes
It's worth taking the time to protect your eyes from damage on the court. The impact of a moment could last a lifetime. Wear eye protection.
It's worth taking the time to protect your eyes from damage on the court. The impact of a moment could last a lifetime. Wear eye protection.
Watch the Racquetball Pros
Racquetball videos can show you how the professionals combine their shots to best effect, and make amazing "dives" to stay in the points. Here are some sources for great video recordings of professional racquetball competitions.
Racquetball videos can show you how the professionals combine their shots to best effect, and make amazing "dives" to stay in the points. Here are some sources for great video recordings of professional racquetball competitions.
Olympic Badminton Predictions
Here are key predictions for the Olympic badminton medalists at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Mens and womens singles badminton, mens and womens doubles badminton, and mixed doubles are all predicted. China's domination of the Olympic badminton medal hunt is expected, but certainly not assured.
Here are key predictions for the Olympic badminton medalists at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Mens and womens singles badminton, mens and womens doubles badminton, and mixed doubles are all predicted. China's domination of the Olympic badminton medal hunt is expected, but certainly not assured.
Jumping In To Junior Squash
Squash can be a hard sport to begin, and a confusing one to understand. You should know that there is an excellent guide provided by US Squash that introduces juniors (and their parents) to everything they need to understand to succeed in competitive squash.
Squash can be a hard sport to begin, and a confusing one to understand. You should know that there is an excellent guide provided by US Squash that introduces juniors (and their parents) to everything they need to understand to succeed in competitive squash.
How to Play "Moat Man"
Moat Man (or Alligator) is a great squash game for juniors, designed to help girls and boys learn to volley the ball in the air. And, it's fun!
Moat Man (or Alligator) is a great squash game for juniors, designed to help girls and boys learn to volley the ball in the air. And, it's fun!
Badminton Olympics
With this advice from an instructor and these ideas from a world-class player, here's how you can get on the Olympic track as a badminton player.
With this advice from an instructor and these ideas from a world-class player, here's how you can get on the Olympic track as a badminton player.
A Nexus for Racquet Play Since 1889
This is a racquet-man's paradise. The Racquet Club of Philadelphia provides facilities for squash, doubles squash, racquets, court tennis, and table tennis. Along with the best showers I've ever enjoyed.
This is a racquet-man's paradise. The Racquet Club of Philadelphia provides facilities for squash, doubles squash, racquets, court tennis, and table tennis. Along with the best showers I've ever enjoyed.
The Alternating Drives Drill
This squash drill features alternating forehand and backhand drives, hit with full power. It's a great drill to practice hitting with power and control. The repetitive nature of the drill can help you improve your backswing and your follow-through, on both sides.
This squash drill features alternating forehand and backhand drives, hit with full power. It's a great drill to practice hitting with power and control. The repetitive nature of the drill can help you improve your backswing and your follow-through, on both sides.
Racquet Sports - HowTos
An index of HowTos for the Racquet Sports guide site.
An index of HowTos for the Racquet Sports guide site.
A Profile of Racquets
The historic game of Racquets, Rackets, or Hard Racquets is still played today, though at a small number of clubs in the United States. This short profile gives you a sense of why enthusiasts at seven clubs in the US are striving to keep this wonderful game alive.
The historic game of Racquets, Rackets, or Hard Racquets is still played today, though at a small number of clubs in the United States. This short profile gives you a sense of why enthusiasts at seven clubs in the US are striving to keep this wonderful game alive.
Forehand Drop & Hit - Back
The best solo practice for racquetball includes the forehand drop and hit drill. Here's how to perform the drill so you improve your forehand as quickly as possible.
The best solo practice for racquetball includes the forehand drop and hit drill. Here's how to perform the drill so you improve your forehand as quickly as possible.
How to Find a Badminton Coach
You want to get the best help for improving your badminton game, don't you? Here's how you can find a coach who's right for you.
You want to get the best help for improving your badminton game, don't you? Here's how you can find a coach who's right for you.
A Profile of Platform Tennis
Platform tennis, or 'paddle', is a great game for year-round fun. This short profile gives the highlights and introduces you to one racquet sport that doesn't even require strings on the racquet.
Platform tennis, or 'paddle', is a great game for year-round fun. This short profile gives the highlights and introduces you to one racquet sport that doesn't even require strings on the racquet.
Olympic Badminton Champs
Here are all the Olympic badminton medalists from 1992 through 2004.
Here are all the Olympic badminton medalists from 1992 through 2004.
Complete the Drill
As the ball approaches, take your racquet arm back towards the back wall, and get the head of the racquet up. Use your left arm for balance by moving it forward as you take the racquet back and prepare to step forward to make contact with the ball.
As the ball approaches, take your racquet arm back towards the back wall, and get the head of the racquet up. Use your left arm for balance by moving it forward as you take the racquet back and prepare to step forward to make contact with the ball.
Getting Your First Racquet
Tips for getting your first racquet
Tips for getting your first racquet
Finding a Virtual Squash Coach
While they can't do as much for you as a real coach, online coaches can help you improve your squash. Here are two virtual squash coaches you should definitely check out.
While they can't do as much for you as a real coach, online coaches can help you improve your squash. Here are two virtual squash coaches you should definitely check out.
Squash Forehand Rail Drill
Lower your tossing arm as you watch the ball hit the side wall around shoulder height.
Lower your tossing arm as you watch the ball hit the side wall around shoulder height.
Racquet Sports - StepBySteps
An index of StepBySteps for the Racquet Sports guide site.
An index of StepBySteps for the Racquet Sports guide site.
Finding a Racquetball Partner
Here's how you can find a racquetball partner, in only eight easy steps!
Here's how you can find a racquetball partner, in only eight easy steps!
Olympic Badminton Controversy
Olympic badminton controversies began even before the sport debuted in Barcelona in 1992. Controversies surround the selection process for the teams, the way funding is allocated to athletes and coaches, and potential conflicts of interest by committee members. And that's even before we look at controversial player behavior or controversial officiating!
Olympic badminton controversies began even before the sport debuted in Barcelona in 1992. Controversies surround the selection process for the teams, the way funding is allocated to athletes and coaches, and potential conflicts of interest by committee members. And that's even before we look at controversial player behavior or controversial officiating!
Help Kids Enjoy Squash
In the US, squash charity begins at home. Nine cities have their own programs offering academic enrichment and squash training to youths who might otherwise not be introduced to the game.
In the US, squash charity begins at home. Nine cities have their own programs offering academic enrichment and squash training to youths who might otherwise not be introduced to the game.