If you’ve ever wondered why some Squash players make their shots look so smooth, the secret isn’t just power or speed — it’s Timing. Great timing helps you hit cleaner shots, move more efficiently, and control the pace of rallies.
Whether you’re just starting out or already competing, learning to “feel” the right moment to hit the ball can completely transform your game.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about timing — how to hit the ball at the perfect moment, move in rhythm, and train your timing like a pro.
Timing Your Shot
Just Squash’s racquet cousin Tennis – your shot timing decides how cleanly you strike the ball. It’s all about contacting it at the right moment in its bounce or flight. Each type of shot has its own ideal timing window.
Drives (Straight or Crosscourt)
Best moment to hit: At or just after the top of the bounce.
Why: The ball still has energy, making it easier to drive through the shot.
Watch out: Don’t swing too early (you’ll lose balance) or too late (the ball will drop too low).
Pro tip: Stay calm, let the ball rise, and meet it with a smooth follow-through.
Volleys
Best moment to hit: Just before the ball reaches its peak in the air.
Why: You take time away from your opponent and control the pace of play.
Pro tip: Keep your swing short and compact. Volleys are about precision, not power.
Drops
Best moment to hit: As the ball slows down near its lowest point.
Why: You’ll have better control to place it softly in the front corners.
Pro tip: Imagine brushing the ball, not hitting it — a gentle, relaxed motion works best.
Boasts
Best moment to hit: Just before the ball hits its lowest point.
Why: You can lift the ball into the side wall with good height and angle.
Pro tip: Bend your knees early — low base, smooth swing.
Lobs
Best moment to hit: As the ball rises, just before it reaches peak height.
Why: The ball’s natural energy helps you lift it high without forcing it.
Pro tip: Focus on the angle of your racket face more than how hard you swing.
Understanding the Ball’s Bounce
Squash balls are funny things — they behave differently depending on temperature, pace, and court conditions. Learning to read the bounce will help your timing massively.
When the Ball Is Warm
It bounces higher and moves faster.
You have less time to react, so you’ll need quicker movement and shorter swings.
When the Ball Is Cold
It stays low and slows down.
Be patient, bend your knees, and wait for the bounce before swinging.
Try this: Do a solo session where you warm up the ball gradually. Notice how timing changes as the ball gets hotter — this teaches you to adapt naturally.
Timing Your Movement
Good timing isn’t just about your racket — it’s about how and when you move.
If you arrive too early, you end up waiting and stiffening up. Too late, and you’re reaching and off balance. The key is to arrive just in time.
The “Just-in-Time” Rule
- Split-step as your opponent hits the ball.
- Move quickly and efficiently towards the ball.
- Arrive as it bounces — not before, not after.
- Swing smoothly without rushing.
Think of it like a dance:
> “Split, move, hit, recover.”
When you move in rhythm with the ball, your timing feels effortless — like your body and racket are in sync.
Rally Timing and Tempo
Every rally has a natural rhythm. Controlling that rhythm is what separates good players from great ones.
You can change the pace of a rally to gain an advantage.
Fast Tempo
- Volley early.
- Keep rallies quick and attacking.
- Great for pressuring your opponent and forcing mistakes.
Slow Tempo
- Use high lobs and soft drops.
- Give yourself time to recover.
- Breaks your opponent’s rhythm and forces them to adjust.
Pro secret: Mixing your tempo — playing fast, then slow — keeps your opponent guessing. They’ll never know what’s coming next.
Training Your Timing
You can train timing just like fitness or technique. Try these drills to improve your feel and consistency:
Timing Drills
- Solo Drives: Hit 20 shots in a row at the same bounce height. Focus on rhythm and control.
- Feed and Volley: Have a partner feed drives. Try cutting them off early without rushing.
- Two-Bounce Drill: Let the ball bounce twice before hitting. This builds patience and rhythm awareness.
- Boast–Drive Routine: Practise moving quickly and timing your swing as the ball comes off the wall.
Mindset Tips
- Stay relaxed — tension ruins rhythm.
- Watch the ball off your opponent’s racket, not just after the bounce.
- Listen to the sound of the bounce — your ears can often pick up rhythm faster than your eyes.
- Don’t chase the ball — let it come to your “hitting zone”.
Challenge of the Week
Goal: Hit 50 consecutive straight drives solo, all at the same height and bounce timing.
If you can do that, increase your challenge — try 20 consecutive volleys!
Post your progress on your club noticeboard or share it with your coach. See who can keep the best rhythm!
Final Thoughts
Timing isn’t about being the fastest player — it’s about feeling the rhythm of the game.
When you learn to move, watch, and hit in sync with the ball, squash feels smooth, controlled, and fun.
So next time you’re on court, remember:
> “Watch early. Move smart. Swing in rhythm.”
Master your timing, and you’ll master your game.