Côté Coach · Squash

Coaching squash, from mini squash to seniors

Choose your age group, find a drill or prepare a session. The guides explain the sources and age-specific guidance.

The drills and the session generator on this page are also in the app, next to members, teams and sessions: see Paak, the club management software for squash.

Sources and overview

A free knowledge base built on the WSF 2025 rules, FFsquash documents (Mini-Squash, École de Jeunes, the Les Balles ladder) and the anglo-canadian curricula cited as such. Squash is a non-contact sport, but both players share the same space: for the youngest, the constraint is not a contact age but the adapted ball (never the double-yellow for the smallest) and certified protective eyewear, the sport's safety duty. Squash will make its first appearance at the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028: men's singles and women's singles, 16 players each, from 15 to 24 July 2028 (decision of the International Olympic Committee of 16 October 2023, for that edition of the Games).

Côté Coach · Squash

What the federations actually publish about youth squash

The WSF, FFsquash and the anglo-canadian curricula side by side. The 2025 rules, age bands, the ball ladder, protective eyewear, solo work and routines: sourced, dated, comparable.

32 published drills

8 guides

4 federations compared

Pick an age group

Priorities change from one band to the next, and for the youngest the constraint is not contact but the ball, the graded form and the eyewear.

Do

Everything runs through the adapted ball: a blue or red dot (the fastest, bounciest) or an oversized intro ball, so the child actually rallies. That is the logic of FFsquash's Les Balles ladder: the ball follows the competence, never the other way round.
Play before fine technique: corner-reaction games, cooperative counted rallies, side-wall target games; the graded forms of Mini-Squash and the École de Jeunes, where a catch is allowed and returning to the T becomes a habit.
Certified protective eyewear from the first rally: the eye injury is rare, but it is the most serious in squash, and the federations make eyewear mandatory for juniors in competition (FFsquash and the DSQV in training too). A lensless guard is ineffective (2024 systematic review).

Avoid

The double-yellow ball: it does not bounce enough for a small hitter; the rally dies and no technique gets built. FFsquash's dot progression exists precisely for this.
The boast « for real » and the competition volley: at this age the graded form is the game (the side-wall target game, the wall-volley count with catches allowed). The adult form comes with control.
Two children thrown into an on-court duel with no space rules: the court is shared; spacing, one-at-a-time turns and a short, controlled racket are safety instructions, not style.

Do

Length first: the straight length hugging the side wall is the founding shot (height on the front wall, depth behind the short line). It is the shared doctrine of the whole training canon (length before width, length before the short game).
Serve and return as an opening discipline: one foot in the box (Rule 5: there is only one serve), the high lob serve to the corner, the straight-length return, then the battle for the T.
Move the ball up the ladder: red → single-yellow, the double-yellow only once the rally holds, and keep the certified eyewear: the junior mandate covers the whole band.

Avoid

Skipping rungs on the ball ladder: moving to the double-yellow before the rally holds destroys exactly what the FFsquash progression builds.
Leaving clearing to chance: two players in one space; fair view, access to the ball, room to swing (Rule 8). A stroke is not an arbitrary punishment: it is a point conceded for not clearing.
Treating « u13 » as a federation category: on this page the u13 band spans the École de Jeunes, U11 and the start of U13; it is a practical grouping, not an official category. FFsquash measures age at the finals date, not the birthday.

Do

The full game with the competition ball: the volley to take time, the boast to open the diagonal, the drop to finish, and PAR-11 condition games (length-only, must-volley, the diagonal) that install each behaviour under real pressure.
Refereeing literacy: reading let, no let and stroke (Rule 8) is a match skill; ask for the let when your path is affected, accept the stroke when you failed to clear. It is trained in refereed practice matches, not on tournament day.
Lunge technique: front knee tracking over the foot, controlled braking, a push back to the T. It is a technique point: no controlled trial has tested a prevention programme on squash players with an injury outcome.

Avoid

Attacking short out of position: the drop and the boast only pay against an opponent pinned deep; attacking from the back, off the T, gives the point away. Length stays the base.
Dropping the eyewear because « they are big now »: World Squash counts a player as a junior until 19, and FFsquash and the DSQV extend the mandate to training.
Copying tactics from old books: hand-out scoring (to 9) still sat in an appendix of the rules until the 2024 edition and was deleted on 1 September 2025. Every rally scores a point (games to 11), which rewards the volley and time pressure. A tactical instruction written for hand-out is out of date.

Do

The full curriculum: pairs routines (boast-drive, drop-lob), structured solo, tactical condition games, full refereed PAR-11 matches, with the warm-up of 4 minutes at most and 2 minutes between games (2025 rules, 4.1 and 7.1).
Keep solo work in the week: solo lengths, the drop-drive cycle and volley figure-eights are squash's signature. Ten minutes alone on a court builds real skill; it is the sport's specificity.
A medical check-up for players over 40 coming back to the game: that is the advice of a 1997 medical review, drawn from two case series of sudden deaths in squash (mean age 46, almost all men, coronary disease in most cases). It is expert opinion: no study has measured the effect of screening.

Avoid

Ignoring a warning symptom during effort: in the series of 60 squash-related deaths, 45 players had had symptoms beforehand, most often chest pain (Northcote et al., 1986).
Playing doubles without eyewear: World Squash makes it mandatory at all its doubles events and recommends it for every player. In a 1990 Australian questionnaire, the racquet was the source of 61% of eye injuries.
Presenting a numeric training threshold as a federation rule: no controlled trial has tested a prevention programme on squash players with an injury outcome; volume caps are coaching practice, not federation numbers.

Session generator

Age band, duration, theme, and a minuted outline. The 32 drills use the training forms named in squash's published programmes (WSF, FFsquash, then England Squash Junior 101 and Squash Canada, cited as foreign curricula).

The drills 32 drills

Filter by theme or by court format (solo, pairs, group, match). The adapted ball, the eyewear line and the Rule 8 clearing duty are written into each drill's coaching points.

Court format

playermovement / ghosting

Court-movement warm-up (ghost to the corners)

A low-intensity solo movement warm-up: from the T, move to each of the four corners in turn as if to play a shot, then recover to the T.

Drill detail

Set out: One player alone, no ball · the four corners of the court as movement targets
What it trains: The founding warm-up: prepare the legs and groove the habit that governs all of squash (recover through the T after every shot).
Published frame: Smooth and low-intensity: a warm-up, not a sprint; the lunge lengthens as the body warms.
How it runs: A low-intensity solo movement warm-up: from the T, move to each of the four corners in turn as if to play a shot, then recover to the T. No ball. Prepares the legs and grooves the return-to-T habit that governs everything in squash.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Always come back through the T - never stand and admire the shot. Front foot leads into the lunge; push off the front foot to recover. Keep it a warm-up: smooth and low-intensity, not a sprint.
Harder: Add a split-step on the T before each move; then add a call (coach points to a corner) so the player must react rather than follow a fixed order.
Easier: Move to only two corners (front pair), walking pace, no lunge - just footwork patterning.

playermovement / ghostingcone

Ghosting - six-corner movement set

The classic ghosting drill: timed sets of explosive movement from the T to defined court positions and back, playing the phantom shot at each, with no ball.

Drill detail

Set out: One player alone, no ball · six marked positions (two front, two mid, two back) · interval work
What it trains: Ghosting, squash’s named movement method: the exact footwork of match play at high intensity, lunge and phantom shot included.
Published frame: The rule that makes it work: recover through the T on every repetition; cutting the corner home makes the drill worthless.
How it runs: The classic ghosting drill: timed sets of explosive movement from the T to defined court positions and back, playing the phantom shot at each, with no ball. Squash's named movement-conditioning method - it trains the exact footwork of match movement at high intensity.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Recover through the T every single time - the drill is worthless if you cut the corner home. Full realistic lunge and swing - ghosting only transfers if the movement matches match movement. Keep the chest up out of the lunge; drive back off the front leg.
Harder: Increase to random calls (coach or a partner points), lengthen work intervals, or add a second lunge before recovery (double-hit) to raise the load.
Easier: Use four corners only, shorter work (20 s), longer rest; walk the recovery if form breaks.

coach / feederplayershot / ball pathmovement / ghosting

Split-step timing on a straight feed

A pairs timing drill: the feeder hits a straight ball, the worker split-steps exactly as the feeder strikes, then moves and plays a straight drive.

Drill detail

Set out: Pairs: one feeder, one worker · regular straight feeds on the forehand or backhand side
What it trains: Split-step timing: the small check-hop triggered at the exact moment the opponent strikes, which turns standing still into readiness.
Published frame: Land on the balls of both feet, knees soft, just BEFORE you know where the ball goes; too late and you are flat-footed.
How it runs: A pairs timing drill: the feeder hits a straight ball, the worker split-steps exactly as the feeder strikes, then moves and plays a straight drive. Grooves the split-step - the small hop that turns standing still into being ready to move in any direction.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Ball: progress along the dot ladder for the group - red or single-yellow for developing players, double-yellow only once they can sustain rallies with it. Land the split just BEFORE you know where the ball is going - too late and you are flat-footed. Land on the balls of both feet, knees soft, ready to push either way.
Harder: Feeder varies the side (straight or cross) so the worker must split, read, THEN move; add a second shot so it becomes a short rally.
Easier: Slow the feed and let the worker simply practise the split-and-freeze on the T with no shot to play.

playercoach / feedermovement / ghostingcone

Corner reaction game (u9)

A lively movement game for the youngest: children stand on the T and react to a coach's call or a coloured cone, running to touch the named corner and racing back.

Drill detail

Set out: Small group (2–6 children), in turns or all shadowing · coloured cones in the four corners · no ball
What it trains: Agility, listening and the return-to-T habit, through play, with no ball pressure: the u9 graded form of squash movement.
Published frame: Short bursts, real rests, space between children (one at a time if the court is full); spacing safety is part of the game.
How it runs: A lively movement game for the youngest: children stand on the T and react to a coach's call or a coloured cone, running to touch the named corner and racing back. Builds agility, listening and the return-to-T habit through play - no ball pressure.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Keep it fun and short - listening and reacting matters more than speed at this age. Always finish back on the T so the habit forms early. Watch the children do not collide - give space or run one at a time.
Harder: Add two calls in a row (memory + movement); add a racket to carry; introduce a slow ball drop at a corner to hit before returning.
Easier: One corner at a time, walking pace, one child at a time until they know the layout.

playershot / ball path

Solo straight drives (length)

The foundational solo routine: alone on court, hit repeated straight drives on one side wall, aiming to land the ball behind the short line and die in the back corner.

Drill detail

Set out: One player alone · one side of the court · the band-appropriate ball (see the ball ladder)
What it trains: Squash’s best-value solo: the repeated straight length; height makes depth, and a ball tight to the wall closes the road.
Published frame: Progression: chase each drive and recover toward the T between shots, then count the balls dying in the corner zone.
How it runs: The foundational solo routine: alone on court, hit repeated straight drives on one side wall, aiming to land the ball behind the short line and die in the back corner. The single most valuable thing a player can practise alone - the length game is the backbone of squash.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Ball: progress along the dot ladder for the group - red or single-yellow for developing players, double-yellow only once they can sustain rallies with it. Aim about a metre above the tin on the front wall so the ball carries deep - height creates length. Keep the ball tight to the side wall; a loose ball into the middle is a poor length. Watch the ball onto the strings; early racket preparation, controlled follow-through (mind your swing space).
Harder: Chase each drive and move back to the T between shots; then set a target count (e.g. 20 in the back box) before switching sides; then aim for a dying length that double-bounces in the corner.
Easier: Stand closer to the front wall, hit gently and just keep the ball going straight along the wall without a length target; a faster (bouncier) ball makes it easier.

playeropponent / partnershot / ball pathmovement / ghosting

Cooperative straight-drive rally

Two players share one side of the court and rally straight drives cooperatively, counting how many they can keep going.

Drill detail

Set out: Two players on the same side · alternating straight drives · count the unbroken run
What it trains: Consistency on length, and the discipline that comes with it: two players in one space, so you clear view and path after every shot (Rule 8, lived).
Published frame: Cooperative: help your partner play. The target is the run, not the point; add the depth target once the run holds.
How it runs: Two players share one side of the court and rally straight drives cooperatively, counting how many they can keep going. The paired version of the length drill: it builds consistency, length control and the discipline of clearing to the T between shots.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Ball: progress along the dot ladder for the group - red or single-yellow for developing players, double-yellow only once they can sustain rallies with it. Clear toward the T after you hit - two players share the space, so clearing is a safety habit, not just tactics. Give your partner a fair view of the front wall and room to swing - this is the everyday discipline behind the let/stroke rule. Keep it cooperative: aim to help your partner hit, not to win the rally.
Harder: Add a length target (must land behind the short line); switch to one straight/one cross so both players cover width; then play the same routine at match pace.
Easier: Stand closer, hit softly with a bouncier ball, and simply try to keep three shots going; let the ball bounce twice if needed while learning.

playershot / ball paththe other choice

Length into target zones

A scored solo (or fed) length drill: tape a target zone in each back corner behind the short line and score a point for every drive that lands in it.

Drill detail

Set out: One player (or a feeder) · a marked zone in each back corner, behind the short line · a written score
What it trains: Turning « a good length » into a measurable task: a point per ball dying in the zone; progress reads week over week.
Published frame: If the ball comes up short: aim higher on the front wall, do not hit harder; the cross only counts if it strikes the side wall deep.
How it runs: A scored solo (or fed) length drill: tape a target zone in each back corner behind the short line and score a point for every drive that lands in it. Turns 'hit a good length' into a measurable, competitive task with immediate feedback.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Height on the front wall buys depth - if you are short, aim higher, not harder. A cross-court needs width: aim to strike the side wall deep, level with or behind the service box. Keep a written score across weeks so improvement is visible.
Harder: Shrink the target; alternate straight and cross each shot; add movement back to the T between hits; then make it a fed drill under light pressure.
Easier: Use a larger target zone and a slower feed; count only whether the ball passes the short line, not the corner box.

playeropponent / partnershot / ball path

Length-only condition game

A condition game that forces the length game: play a normal PAR-11 point, but every shot must land behind the short line - a ball that bounces in front of the line loses the rally.

Drill detail

Set out: Two players · a normal PAR-11 point · constraint: every ball must bounce behind the short line
What it trains: Length discipline under real pressure: opening the court with depth, not with the risky short ball, the back-court’s signature condition game.
Published frame: Clearing is in the spirit of the game: free view and path (Rule 8). A stroke is a conceded point; keep margin above the tin.
How it runs: A condition game that forces the length game: play a normal PAR-11 point, but every shot must land behind the short line - a ball that bounces in front of the line loses the rally. Trains disciplined length under real opposition and teaches players to open the court with depth, not with risky short shots.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Clearing discipline is scored here in spirit: give a fair view and room to swing - a stroke is a conceded point under the rules. Win rallies by pushing your opponent deep and taking the T, not by hitting harder. PAR scoring means every rally counts - an error behind the line still loses the point, so keep margin above the tin.
Harder: Shrink the legal zone deeper (behind the service-box line); allow the volley only; then remove the constraint for a normal game and see if the length habit holds.
Easier: Widen the legal zone to the whole area behind the short line and play cooperatively (rally, do not compete) before scoring points.

coach / feederplayershot / ball pathmovement / ghosting

Front-court drop off a feed

A pairs drill for the drop shot: the feeder plays a loose ball to the front, the worker moves in and plays a tight straight drop that dies close to the front wall and side wall.

Drill detail

Set out: Pairs: one feeder, one worker · a loose ball fed to the front court · the band-appropriate ball
What it trains: The short game’s founding action: the straight drop learned off a friendly feed; touch before pressure, and the T-recovery that follows every drop.
Published frame: A drop is touch, not power: open face, the ball floated just over the tin, and you always follow your ball.
How it runs: A pairs drill for the drop shot: the feeder plays a loose ball to the front, the worker moves in and plays a tight straight drop that dies close to the front wall and side wall. The short game's building block, learned under a friendly feed before it is used under pressure.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Ball: use a slow-court beginner ball (blue or red dot) or an oversized intro/mini ball - never the double-yellow competition ball at this age; a higher-bouncing ball keeps rallies alive for small hitters (FFsquash Les Balles progression). Get low with a lunge and place the ball softly - a drop is touch, not power. Take the ball early and out in front; open the racket face to float it just over the tin. Recover to the T immediately - a drop that is not followed leaves the whole court open.
Harder: Feeder varies the feed (front-left then front-right on call); worker adds a straight drive first then the drop (drive-then-drop); then feed off the back so the worker must travel further.
Easier: Feed the ball higher and slower right into the front corner so the worker only has to guide it down; allow a bounce before the drop.

playershot / ball pathmovement / ghosting

Solo drop-drive cycle

A continuous solo routine linking the back and front of the court: hit a straight drive to the back, follow it, then play a straight drop to the front, chase that, and drive again - a repeating length-then-drop loop that trains both shots plus the movement between them, alone on court.

Drill detail

Set out: One player alone · one side of the court · alternating a length drive and a short drop, continuously
What it trains: The solo canon’s back-to-front loop: both shots plus the movement between them, in rhythm, the length-drop link the match will demand.
Published frame: A rhythm drill: smoothness and control before power; set your feet before each shot, do not reach off balance.
How it runs: A continuous solo routine linking the back and front of the court: hit a straight drive to the back, follow it, then play a straight drop to the front, chase that, and drive again - a repeating length-then-drop loop that trains both shots plus the movement between them, alone on court.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. This is a rhythm drill - smoothness and control beat power; keep the ball tight to the wall throughout. Move to the ball and set your feet before each shot; do not reach and slap. Vary the height: the drive carries deep, the drop floats just over the tin.
Harder: Add cross-court variations (drive straight, drop cross); count unbroken cycles; then add a boast so it becomes a three-shot solo (boast-drive-drop).
Easier: Split it: practise just drive-drive to length for a while, then just drop-drop at the front, before joining them into the loop.

playeropponent / partnershot / ball pathmovement / ghosting

Drop-and-lob pairs routine

The classic paired short-game routine: one player plays drops to the front, the other retrieves and lifts a lob to the back; roles are fixed, then swapped.

Drill detail

Set out: Pairs, fixed then swapped roles: one player drops, the other retrieves and lobs · the continuous front-back loop
What it trains: The complete front-court exchange: the drop and its escort the lob, trained together because in a match they are the same moment of play.
Published frame: The two cross constantly: move through the T and free the other’s path; clearing discipline is part of the routine.
How it runs: The classic paired short-game routine: one player plays drops to the front, the other retrieves and lifts a lob to the back; roles are fixed, then swapped. It pairs the drop with its natural escape - the lob - and trains front-to-back movement for both players.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Lob high and deep - a good lob buys time and pushes the opponent behind you. Drop softly with an open face; do not try to win the point, keep the routine alive. Both players clear and move through the T - never block the other's path front-to-back.
Harder: Make it cross-court (drop straight, lob cross); let both players play both shots (free short game); then add a scoring condition.
Easier: Slow it down, allow a bounce before each shot, and let the lobber simply feed a gentle high ball while the dropper practises placement.

playeropponent / partnershot / ball pathmovement / ghosting

Front-court condition game (short game)

A condition game confined to the front of the court: points are played PAR-11 but every ball must bounce in front of the short line - only drops, counter-drops and short lobs are legal.

Drill detail

Set out: Two players · a normal PAR-11 point · constraint: every ball must bounce in front of the short line
What it trains: The short game under real opposition: touch, disguise and quick front-court movement, with only drops, counter-drops and short lobs.
Published frame: Touch over power: keep a little margin above the tin. Very tight space: clear at once and give room, a careless swing near your opponent is a stroke.
How it runs: A condition game confined to the front of the court: points are played PAR-11 but every ball must bounce in front of the short line - only drops, counter-drops and short lobs are legal. Trains touch, disguise and quick front-court movement under real opposition.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Touch over power - the tin is your enemy here, keep a little margin. Watch your opponent's racket to read the counter-drop early. Very tight space: clear immediately and give room - a careless swing near your opponent is dangerous and a stroke.
Harder: Allow a lob to reset only once per rally; add a target so a drop into the nick scores double; then widen to a three-quarter-court game.
Easier: Play it cooperatively first (keep the ball going in the front, no scoring) and allow a bounce before each shot.

playershot / ball path

Solo volley against the front wall

A solo control routine: stand near the front and volley the ball continuously against the front wall without letting it bounce.

Drill detail

Set out: One player alone · near the front, facing the front wall · continuous volleys, no bounce
What it trains: A compact, controlled volley and the racket-face control that lets you take the ball early and steal time in a rally.
Published frame: Short, punchy action, no big backswing: the wall gives the ball back fast. Meet it in front of you and stay light on your feet. Harder: move further back so that the volleys travel more.
How it runs: A solo control routine: stand near the front and volley the ball continuously against the front wall without letting it bounce. Builds a compact, controlled volley action and the racket-face control that lets a player take the ball early to steal time in a rally.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Short, punchy action - no big backswing on a volley; the wall gives the ball back fast. Watch the ball right onto the strings and meet it in front of you. Stay light on your feet; small adjustments, do not root to the spot.
Harder: Move further back so the volleys travel more; alternate forehand/backhand every shot; then aim each volley at a target on the front wall.
Easier: Allow one bounce between volleys (volley-bounce-volley); use a slower ball; stand closer to keep the ball manageable.

coach / feederplayershot / ball paththe other choicemovement / ghosting

Volley straight drive off a feed

A pairs drill for taking the ball early: the feeder plays a floated straight ball, the worker volleys it back straight to a length before it can drop into the back corner.

Drill detail

Set out: Pairs: one feeder, one worker · a floated straight ball along the wall · the worker holds the T
What it trains: Taking the ball early: decide to volley, step in, and drive the volley straight to a length before the ball can drop into the back corner, to hold the T.
Published frame: Compact action, firm wrist: drive the volley deep, do not just block it. Take the ball in front of your body and recover to the T at once.
How it runs: A pairs drill for taking the ball early: the feeder plays a floated straight ball, the worker volleys it back straight to a length before it can drop into the back corner. Trains the decision and the technique of volleying to keep the opponent under time pressure and hold the T.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Decide early to volley - stepping in to take the ball is the whole point of the drill. Compact action, firm wrist; drive the volley deep, do not just block it. Take the ball in front of your body and recover to the T at once.
Harder: Feeder varies height and side so the worker chooses when to volley vs let it go; add a straight-volley-then-cross option; then build a continuous volley rally.
Easier: Feed slower and higher so the worker has time; allow a controlled block rather than a driven volley at first.

playeropponent / partnershot / ball pathmovement / ghosting

Must-volley condition game

A condition game that rewards taking the ball early: play PAR-11, but a player who lets the ball bounce twice, or fails to volley the serve/return, is under pressure - in the strict version every ball above a set height must be volleyed.

Drill detail

Set out: Two players · a PAR-11 point · the game rewards the volley: in the strict version, every ball above a set height must be volleyed
What it trains: Aggression and early ball-take: position higher up the court, close to the T, to volley, and pin your opponent in the back with a firm volley to a length.
Published frame: Do not swing wildly at head-height volleys near your opponent: controlling the racket is a safety rule as much as a scoring one. Harder: every ball must be volleyed.
How it runs: A condition game that rewards taking the ball early: play PAR-11, but a player who lets the ball bounce twice, or fails to volley the serve/return, is under pressure - in the strict version every ball above a set height must be volleyed. Trains aggression, early ball-take and holding the T.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Position higher up the court and closer to the T so you can reach balls to volley. Volley firmly to a length to keep your opponent pinned in the back. Do not swing wildly at head-height volleys near your opponent - control the racket, it is a safety rule as much as a scoring one.
Harder: Tighten to 'every ball must be volleyed'; add a point bonus for a volley winner; then remove the constraint and see if the player stays forward.
Easier: Apply the volley rule only to the return of serve; play cooperatively first; use a slower ball to give more time.

opponent / partnerplayershot / ball path

Wall-volley count (u9)

A gentle introduction to the volley for the youngest: with a slow ball close to the front wall, children keep the ball going against the wall, and a catch is allowed to reset.

Drill detail

Set out: Children in pairs · close to the front wall · a slow ball · a catch is allowed to reset
What it trains: Meeting the volley gently: keeping the ball going against the wall, cooperatively and without pressure, before any competition ball or speed.
Published frame: Little taps, not big swings: racket up in front. Stay close to the wall so that the ball comes back quickly and softly. Harder: fewer catches allowed, one step back.
How it runs: A gentle introduction to the volley for the youngest: with a slow ball close to the front wall, children keep the ball going against the wall, and a catch is allowed to reset. A cooperative, low-pressure way to meet the volley before any competition ball or speed is involved.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Ball: use a slow-court beginner ball (blue or red dot) or an oversized intro/mini ball - never the double-yellow competition ball at this age; a higher-bouncing ball keeps rallies alive for small hitters (FFsquash Les Balles progression). Little taps, not big swings - keep the racket up in front. A catch is fine - the aim is to meet the ball in the air, not to keep a long rally yet. Stand close to the wall so the ball comes back quickly and softly.
Harder: Reduce the catches allowed; alternate forehand and backhand taps; move a step back as control grows.
Easier: Let the ball bounce once between taps; use the slowest, bounciest ball; make catching-and-tapping the whole game.

playershot / ball path

Serve to targets

A solo serving routine: from each service box, serve to a target in the back corner, aiming for a high lob serve that clings to the side wall and dies at the back.

Drill detail

Set out: One player alone · serving from each box at a marked target in the opposite back corner
What it trains: The club game’s least-practised shot: the serve, the high, soft lob that clips the side wall and dies at the back, unplayable on the volley.
Published frame: The rules are part of the action: one foot fully in the box, the ball above the service line, and there is no second serve.
How it runs: A solo serving routine: from each service box, serve to a target in the back corner, aiming for a high lob serve that clings to the side wall and dies at the back. The serve starts every rally, yet is the most under-practised shot in the club game - this drill fixes that.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Ball: progress along the dot ladder for the group - red or single-yellow for developing players, double-yellow only once they can sustain rallies with it. Serve rules: one foot fully inside the box, not touching a line (WSF Rule 5); serve above the service line on the front wall. A good lob serve is high and soft, catching the side wall so it is awkward to volley. Practise the hard/body serve too, but the deep lob to the corner is the bread-and-butter serve.
Harder: Shrink the target; add a return so it becomes serve-and-return; then serve and immediately move to the T to take the return early.
Easier: Use a large target and just aim to get a legal serve past the short line into the back half; a slower ball is easier to control.

playeropponent / partnershot / ball pathmovement / ghosting

Serve and return to the T

A pairs drill for the two most positional shots in squash: the server serves, the receiver returns straight to a length, and both then recover to their correct position.

Drill detail

Set out: Pairs: server and receiver · serve, straight-length return, then each takes their position · repeat on both sides
What it trains: Squash’s two most positional shots and the small battle after them: serve, return straight to length, and win the T, the disciplined opening.
Published frame: The straight return is the safe choice: master it before attacking it; a server who stays in the box gives the T away.
How it runs: A pairs drill for the two most positional shots in squash: the server serves, the receiver returns straight to a length, and both then recover to their correct position. Trains the serve, the return, and the little battle for the T that decides who controls the rally.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Ball: progress along the dot ladder for the group - red or single-yellow for developing players, double-yellow only once they can sustain rallies with it. Receiver: the safe, high-percentage return is a straight length down the wall - master it before you attack. Server: after serving, move to the T; the server who stays in the box gives the T away. Both compete for the T fairly - fair view and room to swing (WSF Rule 8); a straight return is easier to clear from than a loose one.
Harder: Let the rally continue for two more shots; let the receiver choose straight or cross return; then play a full serve-plus-open-rally point.
Easier: Serve gently and higher; let the receiver take the ball after a bounce; the aim is just to make a controlled return, not a perfect length.

playeropponent / partnershot / ball path

Serve-return-plus-one condition game

A condition game built on the start of the rally: the serve must be a lob to the corner, the return must go straight, and only then is the rally open.

Drill detail

Set out: Two players · a PAR-11 point · the serve must be a lob to the corner, the return must go straight, then the rally is open
What it trains: A disciplined opening: no blasted serve, no loose cross return slapped away, but a lob serve, a straight return, then winning the T.
Published frame: The straight return is not a limitation: it is the correct high-percentage shot. Serve legally, one foot in the box and above the service line: a fault is a lost point under PAR.
How it runs: A condition game built on the start of the rally: the serve must be a lob to the corner, the return must go straight, and only then is the rally open. Points are PAR-11. It stops players from blasting the serve or slapping a loose cross return, and rewards a disciplined opening.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. The straight return is not a limitation - it is the correct high-percentage shot the game is teaching you. After a good return, get to the T; the rally is now open and even. Serve legally (one foot in the box, above the service line) - a fault is a lost point under PAR.
Harder: Require the third shot to be a length too; allow the receiver to volley the serve straight; then remove the rules for an open game.
Easier: Keep only rule (2) (straight return); play cooperatively for a while; use a slower ball to give time.

playeropponent / partnershot / ball path

Boast-drive routine

The single most famous pairs routine in squash: one player is stuck in the back and plays a boast (the ball hits the side wall, then the front wall, coming out to the front); the other retrieves it at the front and drives straight to a length, sending the first player back to boast again.

Drill detail

Set out: Pairs, fixed then swapped roles: the back player boasts, the front player returns a straight length · the loop cycles endlessly
What it trains: Squash’s most famous routine: the boast, the straight length, and both players’ front-to-back movement. Four lessons in a single pattern.
Published frame: Boast at the right height (too low dies, too flat sits up); the two players cross continuously: move through the T and clear, Rule 8 lived.
How it runs: The single most famous pairs routine in squash: one player is stuck in the back and plays a boast (the ball hits the side wall, then the front wall, coming out to the front); the other retrieves it at the front and drives straight to a length, sending the first player back to boast again. It trains the boast, the straight drive, and relentless front-to-back movement.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Boaster: hit the side wall first at the right height so the ball reaches the front comfortably - too low dies, too flat sits up. Driver: a tight straight length is the goal; do not go cross, or you break the pattern. Both clear through the T and give room - this drill has players crossing constantly, so clearing is a safety habit (WSF Rule 8).
Harder: Add a cross-court drive option so the boaster must read it; add a drop off the boast (boast-drive-drop); then let the front player choose drive or drop.
Easier: Slow it down, allow a bounce, and let the boaster play a simpler high ball to the front rather than a tight boast while learning the pattern.

playeropponent / partnershot / ball path

Boast-drive-lob rotation (3 players)

A three-player rotating routine that keeps a whole small group working on one court: a repeating boast, then straight drive, then cross-court lob pattern, with players rotating through the roles.

Drill detail

Set out: Three players on one court · a repeating pattern: boast, straight drive, cross-court lob · players rotate through the roles
What it trains: Linking three shots into one continuous game shape: the boast opens the front, the drive resets length, the lob buys time. Hit the right shot, not a winner.
Published frame: With three on court, call and clear so that no one is struck; move early to your next position and free the ball’s path (Rule 8).
How it runs: A three-player rotating routine that keeps a whole small group working on one court: a repeating boast, then straight drive, then cross-court lob pattern, with players rotating through the roles. It links three shots into a continuous game shape and is a staple of the club group session.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Communication and awareness matter with three on court - call and clear so no one is struck. Each shot has a job: the boast opens the front, the drive resets length, the lob buys time - hit the right shot, not a winner. Keep moving to your next position early; the pattern only flows if everyone clears the ball's path (WSF Rule 8).
Harder: Speed the pattern up; add a fourth player to a queue with quick rotation; let the front player choose drive or drop to add reading.
Easier: Slow the pattern, allow bounces, and simplify to boast-and-drive only (two roles) with the third player resting or feeding, until the group reads the movement.

playershot / ball pathmovement / ghosting

Solo boast-drive cycle

An advanced solo routine: play a boast from the back, chase it to the front, drive it straight back to length, chase that to the back, and boast again - a self-feeding boast-drive loop that trains the side-wall game and heavy court movement without a partner.

Drill detail

Set out: One player alone · a continuous loop: boast from the back, straight drive from the front · the whole court
What it trains: The side-wall game and heavy court movement without a partner: boast from the back, chase the ball to the front, drive it straight to a length, chase it to the back, and boast again.
Published frame: Keep the boast height consistent so that the loop survives; set balanced feet before each shot, and recover toward the T-line between shots even though you are alone.
How it runs: An advanced solo routine: play a boast from the back, chase it to the front, drive it straight back to length, chase that to the back, and boast again - a self-feeding boast-drive loop that trains the side-wall game and heavy court movement without a partner.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. This is a demanding rhythm-and-fitness drill; keep the boast height consistent so the loop survives. Move on balanced feet and set up for each shot - do not let the drill turn into a scramble. Recover toward the T-line between shots even though you are alone; it grooves match movement.
Harder: Add a drop at the front instead of always driving (boast-drop then boast-drive alternately); count unbroken cycles; then time a continuous 2-minute block.
Easier: Play a higher, softer boast and allow the ball to bounce twice if needed; drop the fitness aim and just groove the two shots.

playeropponent / partnershot / ball path

Boast-drop condition game (the diagonal)

A condition game on the diagonal: one player may only boast or drive from the back; the other may only drop or lob from the front.

Drill detail

Set out: Two players on the diagonal · the back player may only boast or drive · the front player may only drop or lob
What it trains: The classic attacking diagonal against real defence: the boast to open, the drop to finish, and knowing when the side-wall attack pays off and when it just hands over the T.
Published frame: A loose boast sits up for a winner: pick your moment. A drop finishes only if it is tight. The two cross constantly: clear and give room every time (Rule 8).
How it runs: A condition game on the diagonal: one player may only boast or drive from the back; the other may only drop or lob from the front. It forces the classic attacking diagonal (boast to open, drop to finish) against real defence, and teaches when the side-wall attack pays off and when it just hands over the T.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Back player: use the boast to move your opponent, but a loose boast sits up for a winner - pick your moment. Front player: a good lob resets you to the back; a drop finishes only if it is tight. Constant diagonal movement means constant crossing - clear and give room every time (WSF Rule 8).
Harder: Let the front player add a straight drive to escape; free the back player to drop too; then remove restrictions for an open game.
Easier: Play cooperatively first (no scoring), allow a bounce, and let the front player lob freely so rallies last and the pattern is clear.

playercoach / feedershot / ball path

Side-wall target game (u9)

A graded introduction to the side-wall idea for the youngest, before the boast proper: with a slow ball, children hit the side wall on purpose so the ball comes off toward the middle, aiming at a cone or a coach standing there.

Drill detail

Set out: One child and the coach, or pairs · a slow ball · a target in the middle: a cone or the coach · a catch is allowed
What it trains: The side-wall idea before the boast proper: hitting the side wall on purpose so that the ball comes off toward the middle, as a target game.
Published frame: Keep the swing small and controlled near the wall. We are learning where the ball goes, not keeping a rally yet. Harder: move the target forward so that the ball travels further.
How it runs: A graded introduction to the side-wall idea for the youngest, before the boast proper: with a slow ball, children hit the side wall on purpose so the ball comes off toward the middle, aiming at a cone or a coach standing there. A catch is allowed. It plants the seed of the boast as a fun target game, not a full stroke.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Ball: use a slow-court beginner ball (blue or red dot) or an oversized intro/mini ball - never the double-yellow competition ball at this age; a higher-bouncing ball keeps rallies alive for small hitters (FFsquash Les Balles progression). Aim at the side wall on purpose - it is meant to bounce off it, that is the whole idea. A catch is fine; we are learning where the ball goes, not keeping a rally yet. Keep the swing small and controlled near the wall.
Harder: Move the target toward the front so the ball must travel further (toward a real boast); reduce catches; try it off a gentle bounce rather than the hand.
Easier: Stand very close to the wall, use the bounciest ball, and just reward hitting the side wall at all.

playeropponent / partnershot / ball pathmovement / ghosting

Cooperative keep-it-going rally (u9)

The youngest age group's condition game: a small group rallies cooperatively with a slow ball, everyone counting together how many hits the group can keep going before the ball dies.

Drill detail

Set out: A small group of children · a slow ball · taking turns · everyone counts together
What it trains: Rally sense, teamwork and court awareness through play: keeping the ball going as long as possible, no winners and no losers, the shared target is the score.
Published frame: Help the next child hit an easy ball, do not try to win. Watch out for each other and give space, no barging. A bounce or two is fine.
How it runs: The youngest age group's condition game: a small group rallies cooperatively with a slow ball, everyone counting together how many hits the group can keep going before the ball dies. No winners, no losers - the shared target is the score. It builds rally sense, teamwork and court awareness through play.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Ball: use a slow-court beginner ball (blue or red dot) or an oversized intro/mini ball - never the double-yellow competition ball at this age; a higher-bouncing ball keeps rallies alive for small hitters (FFsquash Les Balles progression). It is a team score - help the next child hit an easy ball, do not try to win. Watch out for each other and give space - take turns, no barging. A bounce (or two) is fine; the aim is a long shared rally, not perfect shots.
Harder: Reduce the bounces allowed; add a rule that everyone must touch the ball once before repeating; introduce a simple target on the front wall.
Easier: Allow as many bounces and catches as needed, use the bounciest ball, and celebrate a rally of three.

playeropponent / partnershot / ball pathmovement / ghosting

Three-quarter-court king-of-court game

A group condition game for busy club sessions: a rotating king-of-court format where the winner stays on and the queue rotates in, played PAR-style to a small target with one coach-chosen constraint (e.

Drill detail

Set out: A group on one court · a waiting queue · winner stays on · a small PAR target · one constraint chosen by the coach
What it trains: Keeping a whole group competing and applying a target behaviour under pressure: the winner stays, the queue rotates, and the coach’s constraint (length-only, or must-volley) is the lesson.
Published frame: Respect the constraint: the game teaches that behaviour, not just who wins. Waiting players call the score and watch. Clear the court quickly and safely when your game ends.
How it runs: A group condition game for busy club sessions: a rotating king-of-court format where the winner stays on and the queue rotates in, played PAR-style to a small target with one coach-chosen constraint (e.g. length-only, or must-volley). Keeps a whole group competing and applies a target behaviour under pressure.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Respect the constraint - the game is teaching that behaviour, not just who wins. Waiting players watch actively: call the score, spot good length, learn from the rally. Fast rotation means players warm and cool - keep moving, and clear the court quickly and safely when your game ends.
Harder: Shorten games to a single decisive rally; stack two constraints; run two courts with promotion/relegation between them.
Easier: Play cooperatively (rally target instead of a winner) with a slower ball and a single, simple constraint until the group is comfortable.

playershot / ball path

Solo figure-eights (butterflies)

A signature solo control routine: alternate forehand and backhand volleys across the front wall so the ball traces a repeating figure-eight (also called butterflies).

Drill detail

Set out: One player alone · facing the front wall · alternating forehand and backhand volleys
What it trains: Both volley wings, racket-face control and the rhythm of continuous hitting: the ball crosses in front of the player and traces a repeating figure-eight, the « butterflies ».
Published frame: Compact volley action: meet the ball in front and let the crossing angle do the work. Small feet adjustments, relaxed grip. Harder: move further back so that the crosses travel more.
How it runs: A signature solo control routine: alternate forehand and backhand volleys across the front wall so the ball traces a repeating figure-eight (also called butterflies). It grooves both volley wings, racket-face control and the rhythm of continuous hitting - one of the best things a player can do alone with ten minutes and a wall.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Compact volley action; meet the ball in front and let the crossing angle do the work. Small feet adjustments keep you behind each ball - do not stretch. Relax the grip; smooth control beats power in a figure-eight.
Harder: Move further back so the crosses travel more; alternate a high and a low figure-eight; add a straight volley every third shot.
Easier: Allow one bounce between volleys, stand closer, and use a slower ball until the crossing pattern is comfortable.

playershot / ball pathdribble

Solo ball familiarisation (u9)

The youngest age group's solo warm-up: with a slow ball, children get used to how the squash ball behaves - bounce it on the strings, hit it gently to the wall and catch it, tap it along the floor.

Drill detail

Set out: Each child alone · a racket and a slow ball · three tasks: on the strings, to the wall, along the floor
What it trains: Getting used to how the squash ball behaves: bounce it on the strings, hit it gently to the wall and catch it, tap it along the floor. A calm way to open a session.
Published frame: No pressure: the aim is to make friends with the ball. Watch the ball all the time; small, gentle taps, racket in front.
How it runs: The youngest age group's solo warm-up: with a slow ball, children get used to how the squash ball behaves - bounce it on the strings, hit it gently to the wall and catch it, tap it along the floor. Pure ball-and-racket familiarisation that makes everything later possible, and a calm way to open a session.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Ball: use a slow-court beginner ball (blue or red dot) or an oversized intro/mini ball - never the double-yellow competition ball at this age; a higher-bouncing ball keeps rallies alive for small hitters (FFsquash Les Balles progression). No pressure - the aim is to make friends with the ball, not to be good yet. Watch the ball all the time; that habit is the foundation of everything. Small, gentle taps; keep the racket in front.
Harder: Add a target (bounce it into a hoop); count bounces; combine two tasks in a sequence.
Easier: Catch after every single bounce; use the bounciest ball; let the child use a hand before the racket if needed.

playermovement / ghosting

Ghosting intervals (conditioning)

A conditioning use of ghosting: structured work-and-rest intervals of movement to the corners and back, at high intensity, no ball.

Drill detail

Set out: One player alone, no ball · the corners of the court · structured work-and-rest intervals
What it trains: The specific squash engine: repeated explosive lunges and recoveries to the T, at high intensity, with movement that transfers directly to match play.
Published frame: Form first: stop the interval if the lunge collapses, that is how knees and ankles get hurt. Match work and rest to the athlete’s age and level.
How it runs: A conditioning use of ghosting: structured work-and-rest intervals of movement to the corners and back, at high intensity, no ball. It builds the specific squash engine - repeated explosive lunges and recoveries to the T - and lets a coach load the legs and lungs with movement that transfers directly to match play.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Form first: stop the interval if technique collapses - a tired, sloppy lunge trains nothing. Recover through the T every repetition; that is the movement being trained. Match the work:rest to the athlete's age and level; the youngest in an age group do less.
Harder: Lengthen work intervals or shorten rest; use random calls for a reaction load; add a light medicine ball or resistance where appropriate for seniors.
Easier: Use four corners, shorter work (15-20 s), longer rest, and walk the recovery; drop the intensity to a moderate tempo.

playermovement / ghosting

Court movement shuttles

A squash-specific conditioning shuttle: repeated fast movements between defined court lines (front wall to short line, T to back wall, corner to corner) with a lunge or touch at each end.

Drill detail

Set out: One player alone, no ball · three axes: front wall to short line, T to back wall, corner to corner · a lunge or a touch at each end
What it trains: Acceleration, deceleration and change of direction in the exact geometry of the court.
Published frame: Decelerate under control and touch low with a lunge: do not crash into the turn, that is where ankles roll. Short, sharp sets, not a jog.
How it runs: A squash-specific conditioning shuttle: repeated fast movements between defined court lines (front wall to short line, T to back wall, corner to corner) with a lunge or touch at each end. It builds acceleration, deceleration and change of direction in the exact geometry of the court.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Decelerate under control and touch low with a lunge - do not crash into the turn. Push off explosively out of each turn; drive with the arms. Keep sets short and sharp; this is quality movement, not a jog.
Harder: Shorten rest; add reactive starts (go on a call); combine two axes in one shuttle set for seniors.
Easier: Fewer, shorter shuttles with full rest; moderate pace; one axis only until movement quality is solid.

playermovement / ghosting

Lunge patterning (movement prep)

A controlled movement-prep and strength routine: slow, deliberate lunges into each of the court positions a player must reach in a rally, holding balance and pushing back to the T.

Drill detail

Set out: One player alone, no ball · from the T, to each court position · slow and controlled
What it trains: The safe, strong lunge mechanics that protect the knee: slow, deliberate lunges into the positions you must reach in a rally, balance held, then push back to the T.
Published frame: The front knee tracks over the toes, never collapsing inward. Chest up, back flat; push back from the front heel. Control beats speed.
How it runs: A controlled movement-prep and strength routine: slow, deliberate lunges into each of the court positions a player must reach in a rally, holding balance and pushing back to the T. It prepares the hips, knees and ankles for training and grooves a controlled, strong lunge for match play.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Front knee tracks over the toes, never collapsing inward - that alignment is the technical marker to coach. Chest up, back flat; push back to the T from the front heel. This is prep and strength, so control beats speed and range beats load early on.
Harder: Add a reach with the racket at the bottom of the lunge; add tempo (lower slowly, drive up fast); progress to light external load for seniors.
Easier: Reduce the depth of the lunge, hold a wall or the racket for balance, and do fewer corners.

Open match play (PAR-11)

Full, open match play under the current rules: best-of-five (or best-of-three) games, each PAR to 11, win by 2, no cap.

Drill detail

How it runs: Full, open match play under the current rules: best-of-five (or best-of-three) games, each PAR to 11, win by 2, no cap. Every other drill in the library feeds this. Play it, referee it honestly, and review it, so technique, tactics and the rules all meet under real pressure.
Coaching points: Eyewear: juniors wear protective eyewear made for squash for this drill (ISO 18527-2:2021 or ASTM F3164). It is mandatory for under 19s at World Squash events, and some federations (FFsquash, DSQV) also require it in training: check yours. Play the rules honestly: ask for a let when your path or swing is affected, and accept the stroke when you have blocked your opponent. Give a fair view, fair access, room to swing and freedom to hit the front wall - that clearing duty is the heart of Rule 8. Compete hard but safely: a dangerous swing or refusing to clear is a conduct matter (Conduct Warning, Conduct Stroke, Conduct Game or Conduct Match, by severity).
Harder: Play the full best-of-five with a formal referee and marker; add a scouting task (review an opponent); tighten the standard toward tournament conditions.
Easier: Play a shorter best-of-three to 7 or 9, or a single timed game; a coach referees and pauses to teach the let/stroke decisions as they arise.

The guides

Age groups, balls & eyewear Mini squash, École de Jeunes, U11–U19, the Les Balles ladder and the per-federation eyewear mandate: squash's youth frame. Building a session Warm-up, two mains, a condition game, cool-down, and the court format (solo, pairs, group) as a planning unit. Length & the back corners The straight length hugging the wall, height creating depth, the dying length: the founding shot of squash. Short game, volley & boast The drop and its escort the lob, the volley that steals time, the boast family and the attacking diagonal. Solo practice & routines Solo lengths, the drop-drive cycle, volley figure-eights, the boast-drive routine, squash's signature: real progress alone on a court. Rules: let, stroke & refereeing Games to 11, the single serve, the three answers to a request for a let (no let, let, stroke) and the conduct penalties: the World Squash 2025 rules. Tactics & the T The T as the command position, length before width, what PAR-11 changed, and what a coach watches in a match. Physical preparation & safety Interval ghosting, lunge mechanics, the eye injury and the cardiac question: squash's safety points.

These drills are in Paak

The generator above also lives inside the app, on the session itself: pick the age band, the duration and the theme, and Paak builds a five-block minuted outline from this same library of 32 drills (warm-up, two mains, a condition game and a cool-down). Edit it, save it to the session: that is free. Printing the session sheet and club-authored drills beyond 5 are in Paak One.

Create a club account See Paak for a squash club

In Paak

These drills are in Paak

The generator is right on the session: plan by the players’ age band and the duration, pick a theme. Paak builds a minuted five-block outline (warm-up, two work blocks, a game and a cool-down) from this same library of 32 drills.

Planning, editing and saving the session is free.

Create my club What can Paak do for my club?

And your members register by themselves: the online registration form

You coach, but you don’t run the club? Send this guide to your president