How-tos
Why play squash
- England Squash
- 4 min read
If you’re thinking about trying a new sport, getting fitter, or just finding something that helps you switch off for an hour, squash could be exactly what you’re looking for.
One thing people often notice straight away is how quickly they get into it. You don’t need to be especially fit or know all the rules to start, and you pick it up faster than you might expect.
One session often turns into another, not because you suddenly become “sporty”, but because the game is genuinely fun. Once a rally gets going, it’s quick and hard to stop – you’ll find yourself wanting one more go.
It might just be the most fun you can have in under an hour.
Here are five reasons to give it a go.
So what are the benefits of playing squash?
1) It's easy to start, even as a beginner
A lot of people worry they’ll look out of place or not know what they’re doing. Most players start exactly the same way – just giving it a go.
You don’t need to know all the rules before you step on court. You’ll pick things up as you play, whether that’s through a beginner session or a relaxed hit with a friend.
Squash is one of those sports you can start as an adult without needing years of experience behind you. Once you get a feel for it, the game starts to click. After a few sessions, you might notice yourself reacting quicker and keeping rallies going for longer.
2) It’s great exercise that doesn’t feel like exercise
Some workouts can feel like a slog: counting steps and reps while staring at the clock.
Squash feels different because you’re focused on the rally, the next shot, and keeping things going – not how long you’ve got left. The longer the rally lasts, the more satisfying it feels. Before you know it, you’ve had a proper full-body workout.
And the best part? You can take it at your own pace. Start with gentle rallies and short games, then build things up as your confidence grows. There’s no pressure to play at any level other than your own.
3) It’s sociable without being overwhelming
Whether you go with a friend or turn up on your own, squash gives you plenty of chances to chat, laugh and encourage each other between rallies.
You don’t have to be the best player in the room, or even the most confident, to feel part of it – just willing to have a go.
For some people, it becomes a regular catch-up with a mate. For others, it’s a way to meet new people through local group sessions.
It’s social without feeling forced, which makes it easier to keep coming back.
4) It fits around real life
Squash doesn’t need to take over your week. There’s no need for full-day commitments. You can book a court, turn up, play for 45 minutes, and carry on with your day.
It’s indoors too, so you don’t have to worry about the weather or daylight. Whether it’s after work, at the weekend, or squeezed into a busy week, it’s a flexible way to stay active.
5) It helps you switch off and feel good
Squash is a great way to clear your head.
When you’re on court, your focus is on the game – watching the ball, reacting, staying in the rally. Everything else tends to fade into the background for a while.
Keep playing and you’ll start to feel fitter, sharper and more confident on court. But even in the short term, it’s that feeling of getting moving, having a hit, and walking off court knowing you’ve moved, switched off and had some fun.
Ready to give it a go?
The best way to see what it’s like is to get on court and give it a go.
You can book a court with a mate or join a beginner session at your local venue – many also offer one-to-one coaching or relaxed club nights.
Beginner sessions are designed for people who are still learning, so you won’t be expected to know everything before you arrive.
And remember, your first session doesn’t need to be perfect. Just get on court, have a go, and see how it feels.
