The equipment you need to play squash safely and successfully

Frantic, fast, and highly strategic, squash is a brilliant sport with plenty of appeal for people wanting a physical challenge. And after decades of campaigning, squash has finally been recognised as an Olympic sport!

However, while squash is a physical challenge, beginners and people interested in taking up squash are often concerned about how safe it is compared to other racket sports. Are you more prone to injuries playing squash? Are there any accessories that can make squash safer?

Luckily, PDH Sports founder, Paul Hargrave, is a former professional squash player, so if anyone knows about how safe (or unsafe) squash is, Paul does! This article answers people’s concerns and shares suggestions about equipment that can make playing squash safer, helping new and existing players get the most out of every game.

Let’s start with the most pressing question “How dangerous is squash?” We’re not going to lie: squash is an intense sport and has always been highly physical. However, squash is nowhere near as physical or dangerous as it was during the 19th century, when it was developed and played at Harrow School.

Squash balls and rackets were much harder, and the courts were incredibly narrow, meaning players often fell over one another trying to make shots. Plus, the courts were often close to pipes or ledges adding more elements of danger to an already physical game. Things are vastly different now, over 200 years later, but you still shouldn’t underestimate the demands squash will put on your body.

There are two common dangers playing squash, both of which are emphasised by the small size of the court. One is being hit in the body or the eyes by a squash ball and the other is being hit by another player’s racket. Squash’s rapid nature means accidents like these can be common, especially for inexperienced players.

That’s why you need to be aware of the other player and make sure you create space to reduce the risk of either of you being hit by one another’s rackets or the ball, especially when you’re playing at the top-level. It’s worth remembering you can play singles or doubles games of squash (doubles squash games are rarer though), like other racket sports, meaning being on “high-alert” is vital to reduce dangers during match play.

Playing any sport comes with the risk of injury and squash is no different. But due to the intense nature of squash, there are more common injuries associated with it than other racket sports. The physical demands of squash mean your fitness levels must be incredibly high, especially if you want to play it at the top level.

Because of the power and technique you need to hit a squash ball, it’s common for players to get tendonitis (commonly known as ‘tennis elbow’) and experience muscle cramps and strains from the pressure being applied to their bodies. Bumps and bruises caused by falling or slipping while trying to hit the ball during rapid gameplay are also common injuries to be aware of.

It’s at this point we need to highlight that, during match play, squash courts can get incredibly hot and players can sweat a lot! Although not a physical injury, heat stroke or stress are risks that you need to be aware of when playing squash. These can lead to a lapse in concentration and possible injuries. Signs to look out for are:

• Dizziness
• A dry mouth from dehydration
• A sudden decrease in match performance
• Muscle cramps

If you experience any of these symptoms, you must stop playing squash straight away to recuperate. A way to counteract the symptoms of heat stress is to properly warm up before you start a game. That way your muscles are loosened up, and your body temperature is slightly raised.

What we need to remind you though is that these possible dangers and injuries should not put you off playing squash. Squash is a fun and unique sport with plenty of health benefits that outweigh the risks. And there is plenty of equipment that can enhance your safety (especially for first-time players) and make playing squash much easier.

Squash is an excellent sport that tests your mind and body like no other. Although squash does have dangers and risks associated with it, these can be effectively reduced by having the right equipment as part of your squash kit. By considering some or all these accessories, you can enhance your play and deliver the best results on the court.

If you want to read more about what squash rackets and equipment we recommend, check out our detailed buying guides. And if you want to ask any questions about squash, contact the PDH team via email or our socials, as they can provide you with lots of tips and advice.