Squash App: The Complete Guide to Squash in Israel

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

1. Control the center of the court (the T): whoever controls the T dictates the game.
2. Return tight to the side wall: a ball that travels along the wall is much harder to return.
3. Stay low and nimble: bent knees and short steps let you react quickly.
4. Warm up well: the game is fast and powerful, so a warmed-up body is a protected body.
5. Play against your own level: a balanced match means faster improvement, less frustration and real fun.

The 5 most common beginner mistakes in squash

• Not returning to the "T": after every shot return to the T at the center of the court, where you control the rally.
• Hitting hard instead of accurate: a shot tight to the side wall (a rail) that dies in the corner is harder to return than a hard shot down the middle.
• Neglecting the deep lob: deep shots to the back corners push the opponent back and open up the front.
• Standing in the opponent's way: you must clear a path to the ball and the racket, otherwise a let or stroke is called.
• Forgetting to breathe and pace: squash is very intense. Controlling your pace and breathing keeps you sharp through the match.

The gear you need for squash

• Racket: a light squash racket (110 to 140 grams). Beginners should use a slightly larger head for a forgiving sweet spot.
• Balls: squash balls have colored dots that mark speed. Beginners should use a blue or red dot ball, which bounces more and is easier to play with.
• Eye guards: highly recommended, the court is enclosed and the ball is fast.

Why squash is perfect for winter and short on time

Squash is played in an enclosed, climate controlled court, so it is ideal for winter and rainy days. On top of that, a single match delivers an intense workout in a short time, which makes it perfect for busy people who want a hard session between meetings.

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.

Frequently asked questions about squash