As part of our #madetomove campaign, Living360 spoke to a squash pro about the buzz around the sport and why it deserves a place in your workout routine.
Move over padel — there’s another court sport making waves, and it’s fast, tactical and perfect for boosting your cardio.
As the news broke that squash is officially entering the Olympic Games, it quickly became the buzziest sport in fitness circles, with Google searches skyrocketing by 5,000% in the last month alone.
To find out what makes squash so addictive — and how to get started — L360 spoke with Annie Openshaw, who recently competed in the British National Squash Championships and knows firsthand why this sport is getting a lot of attention.
Read more: A beginner’s guide to padel — is it easier than tennis?
What are the rules of squash?
“Squash is played on a four-walled court, usually one-on-one, but you can also play doubles,” Annie explains. “The aim is to hit the ball onto the front wall so your opponent can’t return it before it bounces twice.”
Games are short and intense — usually played to 11 points, best of five — so you’re never bored, and always moving.
Get ready for explosive sprints, sharp lunges and laser focus. Oh, and sweat. A lot of sweat.
Read more: The best work-out friendly beauty products for a sweat-free look
Why is squash so popular?
Squash is fast, dynamic, competitive and played indoors — which makes it ideal for year-round training in the UK.
It’s also getting more mainstream recognition, especially now that it’s officially been added to the Olympic Games.
“With squash gaining TV coverage and Olympic visibility, it’s finally getting the spotlight it deserves,” Annie says. “And people are realising it’s not just a niche sport — it’s fun, social and amazing for your fitness.”
As it rockets in popularity, gyms across the UK are seeing renewed interest and adding beginner sessions to meet demand. So, if you’ve been looking for a new way to challenge your body and your brain, squash might just be your calling.
Read more: The best padel courts and clubs in London for 2025
Can you play squash solo?
No partner? No problem. “You can definitely play solo,” Annie says. “Practicing against the wall is great for building skills like drives and volleys. Plus, it’s a killer way to squeeze in a workout when you don’t have a partner available.”
But it’s also super social. Whether you’re rallying with a friend or joining a local club (many offer beginner sessions), squash is as community-driven as it is competitive.
How to train like a professional squash player
Annie’s prep for elite competition includes a mix of court drills and gym sessions.
“On court, I work on movement, tactical play and shot variety,” she says. “Off court, it’s strength and plyometric training to build speed and agility, plus endurance conditioning and mobility work to avoid injuries.”
In other words, squash doesn’t just make you fit — it demands total-body athleticism. If you’re looking to shake up your gym routine with something functional, fun and genuinely challenging, this might be it.
What are the best squash shoes?
Annie says Asics as her go-to brand, specifically the Gel Tactic 13 model.
These shoes are designed for indoor court sports, offering advanced stability and grip for controlled movements in all directions.
Read more: These are the best tennis clubs in London for beginners
Best beginner-friendly squash clubs and courts in London
Spencer’s Squash Club
Locations: Earlsfield, Wandsworth, Wimbledon, Tooting, Balham, Clapham Junction and Putney
This club currently provides a weekly beginner’s squash programme, which takes place from 3pm to 4.30pm on Saturdays.
For more information or to book, visit Spencer’s Squash Club.
The Dilly
Location: Piccadilly
This central London hotel offers court hires from £25 an hour, or £35 for two sessions.
For more information or to book, visit The Dilly.
Southbank Club
Location: Nine Elms
The fitness and squash club is currently running beginner classes from 10am until 12pm on Saturdays.
For more information or to book, visit Southbank Club.
Wimbledon Racquets and Fitness Club
Location: Wimbledon
It may be famously associated with another racquet sport, but Wimbledon is home to a club that offers six week beginner squash courses throughout the year.
The sessions run on Thursdays from 7.30pm-8.45pm, costing £82.50 for members and £99 for non-members.
For more information or to book, visit Wimbledon Racquets and Fitness Club.
Britannia Leisure Centre Hackney
Location: Hackney
For just £4.70 per session, the courts are open for squash players of all levels to drop-in and play a game (or three!) every Thursday between 6pm and 9pm.
For more information, visit Better.
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How to recover after playing squash
After all that movement, your body’s going to need some TLC.
“Squash is intense on the legs, hips, and back,” Annie says. “Recovery is essential — not just for performance but for avoiding injuries.”
Her go-to tool is the Fixx Mini Massage Gun from Compex. Annie explains: “It helps ease soreness, reduce stiffness and keep me consistent with training. I never travel without it.”
Feature image: Canva
