How to Grip a Squash Racket

Thr right grip on the racket is vital in squash.

If you want to excel at squash, it is absolutely essential that you learn how to grip a squash racket correctly. Many amateur players make the mistake of simply making a fist around the racket grip. While this gives you the maximum amount of hitting power, it also provides very little control over the racket. As long as you keep your entire hand on the grip, you can move your hand closer to the racket head for more control (but less reach) or closer to the base of the grip for more reach (but less control).

Instructions

1. Hold the racket perpendicular to the ground with your non-dominant hand (the hand you write with is your dominant hand).

2. Place your dominant hand on the top of the racket grip with your forefinger and thumb parted in a “V” formation. If you are left-handed, the bottom of the “V” should be slightly to the right; if you are right-handed, the bottom of the “V” should be slightly to the left. The side of the “V” that your thumb is on should be almost parallel with the racket, while the side of the “V” that is made by your forefinger should point outward.

3. Grip the racket first with your forefinger, which should point forward and wrap slightly around your racket.

4. Wrap the rest of your fingers around the racket. There should be a gap of at least one-half inch between your forefinger and your middle finger. The rest of your fingers should be touching.

5. Hold your thumb against the other side of the grip. Your thumb should be pointing forward. The base of your thumb (the portion of your thumb between your hand and the thumb joint) should be almost parallel with the racket. The tip of your thumb should wrap around the racket.

6. Check to make sure that your thumb and forefinger form the proper “V” formation.

References

• “Squash: Steps to Success, 2nd Edition”; Philip Yarrow; 2009
• “Improve Your Squash Game: 101 Drills, Coaching Tips and Resources”; Pippa Sales; 1996