How to Train in Racquetball

Racquetball, a sport played either in teams or against a single opponent, is a quick-moving game using a racquet, tight rubber ball and a wall. Players aim to hit the wall with such speed and precision that their opponents are unable to return their serve or volley. The game is enjoyed by players ranging from complete beginners up through the Olympic level. Learning the facets of racquetball is an ongoing process; even if you’ve been playing for a while, you’ll find many opportunities to enhance your training.

Instructions

    • 1

      Visit the USA Racquetball website; USA Racquetball is the governing organization for racquetball within the United States. Although the organization offers a membership, you don’t have to join to gain information from the site, including contact information for instructors, links to purchase educational DVDs and books, and a listing of racquetball events in your area.

    • 2

      Check a social networking site such as Meetup, which lists clubs and groups in your area by ZIP code. A July 2010 search of the site showed there were 37 racquetball meetups in the country, including Las Vegas, New York City, San Diego, Tampa, Phoenix and Knoxville. The groups offer information about weekly or monthly matches, tournaments and competitions; players of all ages are usually welcome but you may be able to find a training partner on your level and meet outside the group for more play. Joining the Meetup site is free; groups may charge membership fees or per-play fees.

    • 3

      Sign up for private or group racquetball lessons from a local coach. Racquetball enthusiasts in the Syracuse, New York area will find private and group lessons from Jim Winterton, the only racquetball coach in the United States to coach three Pan Am Games. Winterton is available at an hourly, half-day or whole-day rate, plus one-day and weekend training clinics on lob serve, forehand, shot selection, defensive racquetball, ceiling ball, foot work, front court game and conditioning.

    • 4

      Watch instructional videos—DVD and VHS are available—from racquetball athletes such as Fran Davis, who offers a “Building Your Racquetball Dream House” video. The video is filled with information on forehand, offense, shot selection, drilling, court position, return of serves, strategy and game plans.

    • 5

      Join a racquet club in your area; note that some clubs may be racquetball only and others may offer additional sports. Residents of Cary, North Carolina, close to the city’s large capital of Raleigh, will find that the Kildaire Farms Racquet & Swim Club offers racquetball, along with tennis, swimming and fitness. The club offers six racquetball courts open every day of the week; reservations are suggested. The club also offers tournaments, open challenge courts, leagues, ladder play and instruction for beginners through advanced lessons.