Playing Squash Kendal

Squash requires intense input and running for sustained but relatively short periods. It is not really suitable for people who are carrying a lot of weight or who are bothered that their heart rate or pulse rate will reach too high a level. A gentler, more extended aerobic activity may be better. If you like racquet sports, then you might like to consider tennis or racquetball (a kind of hybrid between tennis and squash that may be more suitable). Check with your doctor if you are thinking of resuming playing squash after a considerable break.

However, if you are in reasonable shape, enjoy squash and can still play, then aim to do so as long as you can. In only an hour and a half you can have had an exhilarating game, done a lot of good exercise, got rid of your aggression, and had a good shower – ready to face the world with a good feeling – unless you lost!

There are plenty of clubs around with leagues and ladders to join which help you find your level. Costs are not too great and the equipment needed is not too expensive. There are now many competitions for older age groups – evidence in itself that it is an activity not just for the young.

When playing, make sure you warm up before a game and warm down afterwards. You need to be careful as squash can put a lot of strain on the joints and this affects people of all ages. And be realistic, “You don’t play squash to get fit; you get fit to play squash”. What you lose in speed and fitness you can make up in technique and guile. Squash is not all about running yourself into a frazzle.

However, squash is a very competitive game played by very single-minded people and there comes a time when you have to let some points go or lose games with good grace. Find your level and just be grateful that you are still playing at all – that in itself is very impressive amongst your peers or even people who are a lot younger than you.


Click here to access more useful information for the over 50s from in my prime.