My Sport is Racketball

When I'm not taking clients to and from airports, I love to play racketball. See below as to what it is all about. What do you play? 

UK / European version of racketball (sometimes now called squash 57), which is similar to USA racquetball but played on a squash court with a slower, larger ball and slightly different equipment.

Here’s why it’s such a good sport and how it keeps you fit and healthy:

---

Why it’s a great sport to play

1. Easy to pick up

   • The larger ball moves slower and bounces higher than a squash ball, so rallies last longer and beginners have more time to react.
   • You can start having satisfying games within your first session.

2. Inclusive for all ages and abilities

   • Because it’s less physically punishing than squash, it’s popular among juniors, casual players, and older athletes.
   • Doubles play adds a fun, social element.

3. Year-round, weather-proof

   • Indoor courts mean you can play regardless of rain, wind, or dark evenings — a big plus in UK winters.

4. Great social sport

   • Local clubs often have ladder systems, leagues, and friendly tournaments that keep you motivated and connected.

---

How it keeps you fit and healthy

1. Full-body workout

   • Legs: constant lunges, sprints, and quick turns.
   • Core: twisting for forehand/backhand strokes and stabilising during movement.
   • Upper body: swinging the racket strengthens shoulders, chest, and arms.

2. Cardiovascular fitness

   • A typical match keeps your heart rate elevated for 30–45 minutes.
   • The stop-start bursts mimic interval training, which improves heart health and endurance.

3. Calorie burning

   • Depending on intensity, you can burn 400–600 calories per hour — similar to a good gym session.
   • Because it’s fun and competitive, you often push yourself harder without realising it.

4. Improved agility and coordination

   • Reading the ball off walls, reacting quickly, and adjusting your body position improve balance, reaction time, and proprioception (your body’s “position sense”).

5. Low impact compared to squash

   • The softer ball and slightly slower pace mean less stress on joints while still giving a strong workout.
   • This makes it sustainable to play multiple times a week without overuse injuries.

6. Mental benefits

   • Quick decision-making sharpens focus and concentration.
   • The combination of physical exertion and social play reduces stress and boosts mood via endorphin release.

---

In short: UK racketball/squash 57 blends the health benefits of squash and racquetball with greater accessibility, making it a sport you can enjoy for decades — all while staying fit, agile, and mentally sharp.

www.fairoaksquashandracketball.co.uk

www.hampshireairportlink.co.uk