Squash is one of the fastest, most intense racket sports out there, combining a serious cardio workout with sharp, tactical play. It's played in an enclosed court against a wall, perfectly suited to one-on-one matches, and it doesn't depend on the weather. In this guide you'll find everything you need to get started: what squash is, what gear you need, the basic rules, tips for beginners, and how to find a court and partners for a match in Israel.
So what exactly is squash?
Squash is usually played as a singles game (1-on-1), inside an enclosed court with four walls, with a racket and a small rubber ball. The two players take turns hitting the ball against the front wall, each trying to make it harder for their opponent to return it. It's one of the most intense cardio workouts you'll find, with fast, nonstop movement inside a small space.
Why you should play squash
- A serious cardio workout in a short time: even a quick match burns a lot of energy.
- A tactical, mental game: every shot is a decision, and the right angle is worth a point.
- Weather-independent: played indoors, so you can play in any season and at any hour.
- Great for 1-on-1: one partner at your level is all you need for a full match.
The gear you need to get started
Squash racket
A squash racket is lighter, narrower and longer than a tennis racket. For beginners, a light, forgiving racket that's easy to maneuver is the right choice.
Squash ball
Each ball has a colored dot that indicates its speed and how much it bounces. A double-dot ball is slower and meant for advanced players, so beginners are better off choosing a faster, bouncier ball that's easier to play with.
Protective eyewear and shoes
It's highly recommended to wear protective eyewear to shield your eyes from the ball and the racket, and to wear non-marking indoor court shoes suited to the court surface.
The basic rules of squash (in brief)
- Scoring: games are played to 11 points using the PAR system (every rally is a point), winning by 2, and the match is best of 5 games.
- The front wall: the ball must hit the front wall above the tin (the bottom board) and below the top line.
- The side and back walls: you're allowed to use the side and back walls to return and maneuver the ball.
- No blocking: you may not block your opponent, and you must give them free access to the ball.
That's the basics, and you learn all the finer points best while playing.
5 tips for beginners
- Control the center of the court (the T): whoever controls the T dictates the game.
- Return tight to the side wall: a ball that travels along the wall is much harder to return.
- Stay low and nimble: bent knees and short steps let you react quickly.
- Warm up well: the game is fast and powerful, so a warmed-up body is a protected body.
- Play against your own level: a balanced match means faster improvement, less frustration and real fun.
How to find a squash court and partners for a match in Israel
Squash courts are usually located inside sports clubs and gyms. The real challenge is usually not the court, but finding an opponent at your level, at a time that works for you.
That's exactly why we built PlayRocket: an app that matches you with opponents by level and location, shows open matches you can join, and helps you coordinate everything in one place — no more five WhatsApp groups and no endless back-and-forth. And it's not just for squash: there's also Tennis, Padel, Pickleball, Badminton, Beach Tennis, Table Tennis and Volleyball.
Ready to start playing squash?
Join the PlayRocket waitlist and be among the first to find partners and courts in your area.
Join the waitlist →Frequently asked questions about squash
Is squash hard to learn?
The basics are quick to pick up, but the game is physically demanding; it's best to start gradually and warm up well.
What's the difference between squash and tennis?
Squash is played in an enclosed court against a wall (not over a net), with a small rubber ball, and it demands intense cardio.
What gear do you need to get started?
A squash racket, a ball matched to your speed level, protective eyewear and non-marking indoor court shoes.
Where do you play squash in Israel?
On dedicated courts at sports clubs and gyms across the country.
How do you find partners for a squash match?
Through a dedicated app like PlayRocket that matches opponents by level and location.
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