If you have a history of heart problems, you should probably avoid playing racquetball or squash. Also, if you are sick, even with a cold or the flu, you shouldn't participate in any strenuous exercise.
If you're overweight or haven't exercised regularly, it's a good idea to see your doctor for a check-up before taking up racquet sports. If indoor racquet sports are new to you or if you haven't played in a while, you should prepare your body by exercising at least 1 to 3 weeks before you start playing. Begin with walking and/or biking and stretching for 15 to 20 minutes. You may also use light weights. Gradually build your workout up to 60 minutes, the average length of a racquetball or squash game.
Your body will lose water as you play, so drink 16 to 32 ounces of fluid 1 to 2 hours before a game. Be sure to also drink plenty of fluids during and after the game. Special sports drinks are not necessary. Wear cotton clothing or clothing made of technical sports fabric.
Warm up by doing some stretches for your thigh and calf muscles. Then do some light calisthenics such as sit-ups, squats or push-ups, and walk briskly or jog in place for 5 to 10 minutes before playing.
Prevent eye injuries by wearing adequate eye protection. Choose eye guards that have been certified by either the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or the American Standard of Testing and Materials (ASTM). You should not depend on your regular prescription glasses because they are not designed to give enough protection. Also, open eye guards don't protect your eyes well enough.
Allow time for a proper cool down. Jumping into a hot shower or running out to the car right after a game can upset your body's normal sweating system. During the cool down period, repeat the stretching exercises you did before the game.
Written by familydoctor.org editorial staff