Racquet Sports: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
Beginner Squash Ball Control
Beginner squash starts with getting control of the racquet and the ball. This simple ball control drill is a great starting point for the squash beginner.
Beginner squash starts with getting control of the racquet and the ball. This simple ball control drill is a great starting point for the squash beginner.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
How Not to Hold Your Squash Racquet
There is a right way to hold your squash racquet, and several wrong ways. Here are some of the more common wrong ways to hold your squash racquet. These squash grips lead to loss of control and precision.
There is a right way to hold your squash racquet, and several wrong ways. Here are some of the more common wrong ways to hold your squash racquet. These squash grips lead to loss of control and precision.
Two Types of Racquet Sports
Racquet sports fall into two main categories: direct games and indirect games. Racquet sports in both categories are fun, fast, physically demanding, and mentally demanding. Here are some features of racquet sports in each category.
Racquet sports fall into two main categories: direct games and indirect games. Racquet sports in both categories are fun, fast, physically demanding, and mentally demanding. Here are some features of racquet sports in each category.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Play With a Lighter Racquet
Here's a great way to avoid tennis elbow!
Here's a great way to avoid tennis elbow!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
How to Avoid Popped Toenails
Popped toenails can be avoided even if you play racquet sports all the time. With proper attention to your footwear and toenail maintenance, you can avoid experiencing the pain and discomfort of popped toenails.
Popped toenails can be avoided even if you play racquet sports all the time. With proper attention to your footwear and toenail maintenance, you can avoid experiencing the pain and discomfort of popped toenails.
Squash Volley Drill Front View
This squash volley drill, as viewed from the front, highlights how watching the ball is essential to hitting a good squash volley. Here are the steps to practicing your volley all by yourself on the squash court.
This squash volley drill, as viewed from the front, highlights how watching the ball is essential to hitting a good squash volley. Here are the steps to practicing your volley all by yourself on the squash court.
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.
The Criss-Cross Drill
To learn how to play squash, you'll need to practice using drills. This criss-cross groundstroke drill can give you lots of forehand and backhand practice even without a partner.
To learn how to play squash, you'll need to practice using drills. This criss-cross groundstroke drill can give you lots of forehand and backhand practice even without a partner.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
Turn Losses to Wins in Squash
Every squash player experiences it: the tough loss. It's either a lopsided match that you lose 3-0, very quickly, while the other player dominates, or it's the even more heartbreaking defeat where you lose 8-10 in the fifth game after more than an hour of hard squash competition. In either case, the loss hurts a lot. Here's how to deal with it, rise above it, and learn to play better squash.
Every squash player experiences it: the tough loss. It's either a lopsided match that you lose 3-0, very quickly, while the other player dominates, or it's the even more heartbreaking defeat where you lose 8-10 in the fifth game after more than an hour of hard squash competition. In either case, the loss hurts a lot. Here's how to deal with it, rise above it, and learn to play better squash.
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.
Watch the Racquetball Pros
If you can't watch every tournament live, it's still possible to watch the best professional tournaments,
If you can't watch every tournament live, it's still possible to watch the best professional tournaments,
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.
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 Rail Drill
Perfecting your backhand straight drive is very important in squash. Here is the best way to practice this shot. This backhand rail drill can teach you to hit a perfect backhand every time, and help you groove it into your muscles so that it is instinctive.
Perfecting your backhand straight drive is very important in squash. Here is the best way to practice this shot. This backhand rail drill can teach you to hit a perfect backhand every time, and help you groove it into your muscles so that it is instinctive.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
Things to Avoid
When you play racquetball, the walls, the ball, and your racquet can work together to create just what you want. Or not. Here are a few things to avoid.
When you play racquetball, the walls, the ball, and your racquet can work together to create just what you want. Or not. Here are a few things to avoid.
Squash Forehand Volley Drill
The squash forehand volley drill gives you the tools you need to perfect your forehand volley, hit your volleys close to the side wall, and hit with control.
The squash forehand volley drill gives you the tools you need to perfect your forehand volley, hit your volleys close to the side wall, and hit with control.
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.
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.
Forehand Ball Control
This forehand ball control drill is designed to introduce new players to the sport of squash, familiarize them with the bounce of the squash ball, and prepare them for enjoying the very active sport of squash.
This forehand ball control drill is designed to introduce new players to the sport of squash, familiarize them with the bounce of the squash ball, and prepare them for enjoying the very active sport of squash.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Find a Web Racquetball Coach
While they can't do as much for you as a personal coach, online coaches can help you begin to improve your racquetball play. Here are several coaches offering some free online tips, as well as recorded lessons, that you should definitely check out.
While they can't do as much for you as a personal coach, online coaches can help you begin to improve your racquetball play. Here are several coaches offering some free online tips, as well as recorded lessons, that you should definitely check out.
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!
Racquetball Drive Serve - Back
This shows the racquetball drive serve in step-by-step fashion, as viewed from behind the server. Eight easy steps to a perfect racquetball drive serve, as demonstrated by T. J. Baumbaugh.
This shows the racquetball drive serve in step-by-step fashion, as viewed from behind the server. Eight easy steps to a perfect racquetball drive serve, as demonstrated by T. J. Baumbaugh.
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!
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.
Racquetball Drive Serve -Front
Open your hand and release the ball as you continue your cross-step towards the front wall. Begin to take your racquet hand and arm up as part of your backswing.
Open your hand and release the ball as you continue your cross-step towards the front wall. Begin to take your racquet hand and arm up as part of your backswing.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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!
Learn the Laws of Badminton
To transition from casual badminton to competitive play, you can learn by doing, or learn by studying,
To transition from casual badminton to competitive play, you can learn by doing, or learn by studying,
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!
Squash Forehand Rail Drill
Here's how to perfect your forehand shot along the wall in squash. The forehand short rail drill will help you practice a perfect forehand, and will give you lots of repetitions so you can hit a perfect forehand shot without even thinking. Your shots will be so close to the side wall that they will frustrate your opponents.
Here's how to perfect your forehand shot along the wall in squash. The forehand short rail drill will help you practice a perfect forehand, and will give you lots of repetitions so you can hit a perfect forehand shot without even thinking. Your shots will be so close to the side wall that they will frustrate your opponents.
A Profile of Sticke Tennis
Sticke Tennis is a game that used to be more popular than it is today. Here is a brief description of the game to give you a flavor for this historic sport.
Sticke Tennis is a game that used to be more popular than it is today. Here is a brief description of the game to give you a flavor for this historic sport.
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.
The Case for Olympic Squash
The case for Olympic squash is sound, and squash should be included in the Olympics. Here are the main reasons why squash should be in the Olympics, and some history of the World Squash Federation's campaign for Olympic squash.
The case for Olympic squash is sound, and squash should be included in the Olympics. Here are the main reasons why squash should be in the Olympics, and some history of the World Squash Federation's campaign for Olympic squash.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
Squash Roll Corner Drill
To make this squash drill more challenging, hit the ball a little lower and harder, and you won't have as much time to prepare for each shot. In this example, the ball hit quite low on the side and front walls, and the striker has very quickly taken a backswing to prepare for his next backhand. Practicing rapid preparation (backswing) for each shot is almost as important as practicing the correct footwork and stance for hitting.
To make this squash drill more challenging, hit the ball a little lower and harder, and you won't have as much time to prepare for each shot. In this example, the ball hit quite low on the side and front walls, and the striker has very quickly taken a backswing to prepare for his next backhand. Practicing rapid preparation (backswing) for each shot is almost as important as practicing the correct footwork and stance for hitting.
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!
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
Top Mixed Doubles Badminton Teams for the Beijing Olympics, 2008
Here are images of top-ranked Olympic badminton competitors, reflecting Badminton World Federation rankings as of April, 2008. These are the top Olympic badminton mixed doubles teams 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 Olympic badminton mixed doubles teams to watch in Beijing!
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!
Groundstrokes Squash Practice
This squash practice drill can help you groove in your forehand and backhand groundstrokes. Solo squash practice like this is essential if you want to play your best during competition. Here's the sequence for productive squash practice, as viewed from the front of the court.
This squash practice drill can help you groove in your forehand and backhand groundstrokes. Solo squash practice like this is essential if you want to play your best during competition. Here's the sequence for productive squash practice, as viewed from the front of the court.
Four Men, Four Walls, And Only One Ball
Doubles squash is a great game, offering physical and strategic challenges for squash players of all
Doubles squash is a great game, offering physical and strategic challenges for squash players of all
Complete the Drill
Here's the rest of the squash rail drill - a sequence of forehand rails that can last a few shots or a few hundred. Practice this drill by yourself until you can hit a perfect forehand every time, with pace and with control.
Here's the rest of the squash rail drill - a sequence of forehand rails that can last a few shots or a few hundred. Practice this drill by yourself until you can hit a perfect forehand every time, with pace and with control.
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.
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.
How to Find a Squash Coach
You want to get the best help for improving your squash 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 squash game, don't you? Here's how you can find a coach who's right for you.
Online Badminton Forums
You may have partners with whom to play badminton, but still want more badminton conversation. Here's how to connect with the online badminton community and find discussion partners who share your sport.
You may have partners with whom to play badminton, but still want more badminton conversation. Here's how to connect with the online badminton community and find discussion partners who share your sport.
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.
Squash Rail Drill - The Toss
Release the ball so that it will hit the side wall about head height, and then rebound several feet back from the side wall. Your toss should be straight towards the wall, so the ball remains lined up with your left foot and left shoulder.
Release the ball so that it will hit the side wall about head height, and then rebound several feet back from the side wall. Your toss should be straight towards the wall, so the ball remains lined up with your left foot and left shoulder.
An Intermediate Squash Drill
This ball control drill for the intermediate squash player requires control that is well beyond what most squash beginners can demonstrate. For intermediates, it offers a way to hone your ability to control the squash ball, know where your racquet face, and always watch the ball.
This ball control drill for the intermediate squash player requires control that is well beyond what most squash beginners can demonstrate. For intermediates, it offers a way to hone your ability to control the squash ball, know where your racquet face, and always watch the ball.
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
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.
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.
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.
Mens Singles Badminton Competitors for the Beijing Olympics, 2008
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!
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.
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!
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.
Getting Your First Racquet
Tips for getting your first racquet
Tips for getting your first racquet
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.
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.
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.
More Than Just Tennis
You can watch racquet sports professionals on the Tennis Channel even if you don't care much about tennis.
You can watch racquet sports professionals on the Tennis Channel even if you don't care much about tennis.
China Owns Olympic Badminton
China will dominate in Olympic badminton when play commences in August 2008 in Beijing. Find out why.
China will dominate in Olympic badminton when play commences in August 2008 in Beijing. Find out why.
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.
Note the Full Extension and Very Good Eye Contact
SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA - JANUARY 27: Flandy Limpele of Indonesia, returns the shuttlecock against Korea's Lee Yong-Dae and Lee Hyo-Jung during the mixed doubles final at the 2008 Yonex Korea Open Badminton championships on January 27, 2008 in Seoul, South Korea. Korea beat Indonesia 15-21, 21-14, 21-18. (Photo by Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images)
SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA - JANUARY 27: Flandy Limpele of Indonesia, returns the shuttlecock against Korea's Lee Yong-Dae and Lee Hyo-Jung during the mixed doubles final at the 2008 Yonex Korea Open Badminton championships on January 27, 2008 in Seoul, South Korea. Korea beat Indonesia 15-21, 21-14, 21-18. (Photo by Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images)
Badminton Hall-of-Famers
Olympic badminton former stars don't just fade away. They coach, they emigrate, and they remain in the limelight.
Olympic badminton former stars don't just fade away. They coach, they emigrate, and they remain in the limelight.
Womens Singles Badminton Competitors for the Beijing Olympics, 2008
Here are images of top-ranked Olympic badminton competitors, reflecting Badminton World Federation rankings as of April, 2008. These are the top women'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 women's singles Olympic badminton competitors to watch in Beijing!
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.
Cross-Train for Fitness
Here are some tested suggestions for cross-training that can help a racquet sports player stay fit and healthy.
Here are some tested suggestions for cross-training that can help a racquet sports player stay fit and healthy.
Bob Malaythong - USA team
Bob Malaythong will compete in badminton for the USA at the Beijing Olympics in mens doubles. Malaythong, from Rockville, MD and Orange , CA, will pair with Howard Bach.
Bob Malaythong will compete in badminton for the USA at the Beijing Olympics in mens doubles. Malaythong, from Rockville, MD and Orange , CA, will pair with Howard Bach.