Squash is a fast, energetic racquet sport played by two people inside an enclosed four-walled court. Players take turns hitting a small rubber ball against the front wall, and the ball can rebound off the side and back walls before it is returned. Because the court is closed and the rallies are quick, squash gives you a serious cardio workout in a small space, which makes it well suited to a busy, indoor-friendly city. If you have been looking for a sport that is intense, social, and easy to fit into an hour after work, learning about squash courts Singapore has to offer is a great place to start.
Unlike tennis, you and your opponent share the same space rather than standing on opposite sides of a net. This means good footwork, awareness, and court etiquette matter just as much as a strong swing. The good news is that squash is quick to pick up at a basic level, so you can enjoy a rally within your first few sessions.
What Squash Is and How to Start
A game of squash is played in points, and matches are usually decided over the best of three or five games. You score by hitting a shot your opponent cannot return legally before the ball bounces twice. The ball itself is small and does not bounce very much, which is why beginners often start with a slightly bouncier training ball that is easier to keep in play.
To get going, the simplest path is to book a court and try a few rallies with a friend who already plays, or to sign up for a beginner lesson. A basic session focuses on the grip, a relaxed swing, and moving back to the middle of the court after each shot, a position players call the T. From there you learn the main shots, including the straight drive down the side wall, the cross-court, the lob, and the drop shot near the front.
If you are completely new to racquet sports, do not worry about power. Control and consistency win far more beginner rallies than a hard hit. Aim to keep the ball tight to the side wall and deep towards the back, and you will already be ahead of most first-timers.
Squash also pairs nicely with other active pursuits. If you enjoy variety, you might like the team energy of netball and floorball in Singapore or an outdoor change of pace with kayaking and water sports in Singapore.
Where to Play, Gear and Lessons
Squash courts in Singapore are found across the island at public sports centres, community facilities, private clubs, and some condominiums and universities. Public sports centres are usually the most affordable and beginner-friendly option, and many let you book a court online in advance. If you plan to use public facilities, it helps to set up an account first. Our guide to getting an ActiveSG account and booking facilities in Singapore walks you through the process step by step. Because operators, opening hours, and booking systems change over time, search for current providers near you and check their latest availability before you head down.
The gear for squash is refreshingly simple. You need a squash racquet, which is lighter and thinner than a tennis racquet, a couple of squash balls, and clean non-marking indoor court shoes. Non-marking soles are important because many courts will not allow shoes that leave scuff marks on the floor. Add comfortable sportswear, a sweat towel, and a water bottle, and you are set. Protective eyewear is strongly recommended, especially for beginners and juniors, because the ball is hard and moves quickly in a small space. Many players simply keep a pair of squash goggles in their bag.
Lessons are worth considering even if you only take a few. A coach will correct your grip and swing early, which saves you from building bad habits that are hard to undo later. Group classes are a friendly and cheaper way to learn, while private coaching gives you faster, tailored progress. Look for coaches or clubs offering beginner programmes and ask about trial sessions.
Staying Safe and Playing Well
Squash is safe and enjoyable when you respect a few basics. Warm up your legs and shoulders before you play, because the sport involves sudden lunges, twists, and sprints. Wear those non-marking court shoes to avoid slips, and keep protective eyewear on if you can.
The most important safety point in squash is space. Since both players share the court, always be aware of where your opponent is before you swing. If your opponent is directly in the path of your shot or your racquet, the correct and safe move is to stop and replay the point, known as a let, rather than risk hitting them. Never take a wild, dangerous swing when someone is close. Good etiquette here keeps everyone injury-free and makes the game more fun.
Start slowly, stay hydrated, and give your body time to adjust to the quick stop-start movement. With a court booking, a basic kit, and a willing partner, squash is one of the most rewarding indoor sports you can pick up in Singapore.