A complete game requires mastery of multiple shots. This guide covers all essential squash shots, from basic drives to advanced trick shots, helping you develop a well-rounded repertoire that will keep opponents guessing.
The Drive
The drive is the foundation of squash - a straight, low shot hit hard into the front wall.
Techniques
- Forehand drive: Racket back, swing straight through the ball
- Backhand drive: Turn shoulders, swing parallel to wall
- Hit the ball at waist height
- Aim at the service line
When to Use
- When you have time
- To change pace
- To establish control
- Forced retrieval
The Drop Shot
A soft shot that dies in the front corner, impossible to retrieve.
Technique
- Short, controlled swing
- Brush up the front wall
- Hit with slight angle
- Ball should land short
When to Use
- When opponent is deep
- After a hard shot
- To mix up pace
- To gain court position
The Lob
A high, soft shot that arcs over the opponent into the back corner.
Technique
- Lofted trajectory
- Soft touch
- Hit with an open racket face
- Ball lands in back corner
When to Use
- When opponent is at the net
- As a retrieval shot
- To change pace
- To buy time
The Volley
Hit the ball before it bounces, typically near the T.
Types
- Attacking volley: Hit with pace toward the front
- Defensive volley: Soft shot to regain position
- Half-volley: Just after the bounce
Technique
- Quick racket preparation
- Step toward the ball
- Short punchy swing
- Aim at target
The Kill Shot
A powerful shot hit into the nick (where floor meets wall) at the front.
Technique
- Get to the ball early
- Hit with full swing
- Direct at the nick
- Low trajectory
When to Use
- When opponent is out of position
- When you have clear opportunity
- After a weak return
The Boast
A shot that angles off the side wall before reaching the front wall.
Types
- Two-wall boast: Off side wall then front wall
- Three-wall boast: Side, back, and front wall
- Corner boast: Into the back corner
When to Use
- When tight in the corner
- To retrieve a loose ball
- To wrong-foot opponent
Conclusion
Mastering these core shots will give you a complete game. Practice each shot until it becomes automatic, then learn to mix them effectively during match play. A well-rounded shot repertoire is the key to competitive success in squash.