Squash Solo Practise Techniques
Oct 2024
![Squash Solo Practise Techniques](https://www.shropshiresquashclub.co.uk/assets/gallery/solo-squash-han.png)
Playing an opponent always delivers the most fun, entertainment and pace, but won't often give you the opportunity to refine those racket and court skills required to rise to a new level.
A little solo practise can though! A 30 minute session comprising of some of the following drills will undoubtedly make a huge difference in a short time. Try it!!
- Ghosting: involves mimicking your movements on the court without actually hitting a ball It’s excellent for improving footwork, agility, and endurance. Move around the court as if you’re hitting shots, focusing on your positioning and speed. This is a great technique to train yourself to return quickly to the ‘T’!
- Corner Drills: Target the front corners of the court by practising drives and volleys to these areas. Use tape or markers to set target zones and aim to place the ball consistently within these spots. This drill helps in refining accuracy and control as well as developing confidence under pressure.
- Solo Drives: Stand in the middle of the court and practise hitting drives to yourself. Alternate between forehand and backhand drives, focusing on maintaining a good length and consistency. This helps in building strength and precision.
- Boast and Drive: Practise alternating between boasting the ball off the side wall and driving it straight. This drill improves your ability to change the pace and direction of shots, making you more adaptable during matches and harder for your opponent to predict your return.
- Figure 8 Drills: Use the side walls to practice a continuous figure 8 pattern, alternating between backhand and forehand shots. This helps improve your control and accuracy while keeping the ball close to the walls.
- Volleying: Practising volleys is crucial for maintaining an aggressive playing style and putting your opponent on the back foot. Stand close to the front wall and hit continuous volleys, focusing on quick reflexes and control.
- Drop Shots: Use the front wall to practise your drop shots. Aim for low and soft shots that land just above the tin. This drill helps you develop a delicate touch and precision ball placement. Don’t forget though…. A drop shot isn’t always a winner. Drop it and move fast to allow the incoming player to access the ball – and always be ready to react!
- Service Practise: Work on your serves by aiming for different areas of the service box. Practising varied serve types like lob serves, power serves, and angled serves can significantly enhance your game strategy.
With consistent solo effort using these drills, you'll soon see a remarkable improvement in your overall game performance. Happy training!! : )