Stroke the ball to the front wall with sufficient judgement to make it
bounce at the back of the court behind the service box. The ball should
never hit the back wall on the full or fail to hit the back wall, ideally
after one bounce and die. Develop it, as a reflex action with practice, by
hitting hard below the front wall service line, or soft above the service
line. The objective is to confine your opponent to the backcourt, moving him
out of the dominating position at the T.
2. Aim for the back corners
As well as good length the standard shot should be played to the back
corner. One can see the opponent's options are reduced when you play in the
back corner. Thirty feet away he can't attack and his swing is restricted.
While playing a cross-court you should hit should hit wide so that he reply
with a volley.
3. Keep it close to the sidewall
As a routine, keep the ball straight, in the corners, along the sidewall
(easier said than done). This will cause your opponent to move away from the
T and hinder him from attacking or volleying. He will be on the defensive
and there may be a possibility of a weak return.
4. The importance of the 'T'
Moving to the T after playing your shot is most crucial. This will allow you
to move and pick up your opponents shot, be it a drop to front court or a
shot to the back court. Generally take long strides to the ball, so the body
is in the recommended position when playing the stroke, and can also recover
quickly for the next rally. The player controlling the T will invariably
control the point. Even after playing a drop or front wall boast you should
move back to the T, to await your opponents stroke. Practice correct
movements by on court shadow (ghosting) routines and shot specific drills.
5. Watch the ball
Some players find it hard to watch the ball, especially when the ball is hit
behind the player, they just watch the front wall. Players also tend to lift
their head to see their opponent's position, before playing their own
stroke. Make it a practice to watch the ball unto impact on your and you
opponent's racket. This will give you the extra milliseconds, to respond and
can also avoid injuries of being accidentally hit by your opponent, his
racket or ball.
6. Move your opponent around
It sounds simple, but most players tend to play strokes mechanically without
relation to their opponent's position. Strike a balance between trying to
hit winners or just defending and returning every ball. Try and spot your
opponents strengths and weaknesses by watching their previous matches and
also during knock up. Use this info to frame your game plan. Move your
opponent to all four corners and especially if they have a weaker side,
which should be exploited.
7. Eat smart
There is no perfect diet, as everyone has different needs and requirements.
The best diet is one that provides adequate fuel and is balanced with
nutrients in the required amounts. If you eat healthily, you will train
harder, and be in better physical and mental condition. Water and proper
hydration are very important. Unreplaced fluid losses can impair
performance. Please drink water as required by your system during training
and matches. Eat well during tournaments, preferably carbohydrates.
8. Think about your game
Squash is a mental as well as a physical sport. Analyze your strengths and
weaknesses and try and improve upon them. Even if you do not have a coach
take the advice of a friend. Also learn from the pros by studying their
matches on TV or video for tips and traps. Check out the squash sites on the
net.
9. Keep in shape
"You have to be fit to play squash, not play squash to get fit". Balance
your on and off season training with a mixture of flexibility, aerobic,
anaerobic and strength training and conditioning. Training must be combined
with appropriate diet and also provide adequate recovery periods for your
body to rebuild and develop. Stick to your training schedule, avoid short,
hectic training and concentrate on longer and systematic training to avoid
injury and build up your body's reserves. Everyone needs as specific
training program, dependant on your genetics, physical shape and training
history. This will determine how much training you can do now and your
body's response to the training.
10. Have fun
In the end -it's just a game
Have fun!
Your friend, Cyrus
[Go to Cyrus's Column Number Two: "Stretching & Flexibility"]
You can reach Cyrus Poncha by email in India at poncha@bol.net.in
or by icq 32540385.
