Racketball - the basics you need to know before hitting the court.

At a glance:

● Great workout
● Challenge your friends
● Play in tournaments
● Competitive

The Lowdown

Racketball, squash’s younger brother, packs just as much fast and furious fun as its better known relative. Taking on your opponent in a 32 foot by 21 foot court, only the ceiling is out of bounds. The idea is to use a cunning combination of deflections and bounces to outwit your opponent and stop him returning the ball. Just as in squash, you play first to 11 with a point-a-rally system that will have you working up a sweat in no time. The main difference to squash is that both the racket head and the ball are bigger, making it easier for beginners.

The Crowd

Racketball is one of the most fun things to do in London when it comes to sport and getting fit. A brilliantly competitive sport, there’s no time for stopping to take a breath once you get inside the court. Forty minutes of racketball will give you a great workout and with courts easy to find at many squash clubs and gyms, it’s convenient too. Ask around your office, and you’ll probably find someone up for a quick game in their lunch hour. Get a few others involved and before you know it you’ve got a ladder.

The Cost

Check out our TasterLab tasters for the best deal on racketball lessons. When it comes to gear, you can get a basic racket for only £20 and a set of balls less than £10. But don’t forget the footwear, you’ll need some trainers with non-marking soles which can be found for as little as £25.

And Finally...

Here’s England racketball player Daryl Selby with a quick guide to get you started.