Squash · Guide

Squash vs racketball (squash 57)

Racketball, officially renamed squash 57, uses the same court as squash but a bigger, bouncier ball and a shorter racket. The ball stays up longer, so it is easier to keep a rally going.

Which should you play?

• Squash 57 if you are new to racket sports or coming back after a long break: you will have proper rallies straight away.
• Squash if you want the faster, more tactical game with leagues at every club. Many players start with squash 57 and move across.

Not the American game

British racketball has nothing to do with American racquetball, which is played on a bigger court where the ceiling and every wall are in play.

New to squash itself? Start with how to play squash.

Quick answers

What is the difference between squash and racketball?

Racketball, now called squash 57, is played on a squash court with a bigger, bouncier ball and a shorter racket. Rallies are slower and longer, so it is easier to learn.

Why is it called squash 57?

The ball is 57 mm across, compared with about 40 mm for a squash ball.

Is racketball the same as racquetball?

No. British racketball (squash 57) is played on a squash court. American racquetball is a different game on a larger enclosed court where the ceiling is in play.

Is racketball good exercise?

Yes. It is a full workout, just at a slightly gentler pace than squash, which makes it popular with beginners and players coming back to racket sports.