Top 5 Mistakes Beginners Make (And How to Fix Them)
1. 🚫 Trying to Hit Winners Too Soon
This is the big one.
Beginners often go for:
- Drops too early
- Big winners from poor positions
- “Hero shots” instead of building the rally
The problem? It leads to unforced errors and short rallies.
✅ Fix it:
Focus on hitting length first. Deep, controlled shots into the back corners win more points than risky winners.
2. 🧍 Standing in the Wrong Position (Not Controlling the T)
A huge number of beginners end up stuck in the corners after every shot.
That means:
- You’re always chasing
- Your opponent controls the rally
Poor positioning is one of the most common beginner errors.
✅ Fix it:
Every shot = recover back to the T. Always.
3. 🏃♂️ Poor Movement & Recovery
Beginners:
- Run around the ball
- Don’t get low
- Forget to recover properly
Movement mistakes massively limit progress and consistency.
✅ Fix it:
Think: Move → Hit → Recover → Repeat
Simple. Relentless. Effective.
4. 🎾 Hitting Too Hard Instead of Too Smart
Trying to blast the ball = loss of control.
Beginners often:
- Overhit
- Lose accuracy
- Panic under pressure
“Hitting too hard” is a classic early mistake.
✅ Fix it:
Play with control first, power second. The pace will come naturally.
5. 🤝 Poor Fundamentals (Grip, Prep, Spacing)
Small things. Massive impact.
Common issues:
- Wrong grip
- Late preparation
- Standing too close to the ball
These lead to rushed, inconsistent shots.
✅ Fix it:
Get the basics right early — they compound over time.
🧠 The Real Lesson
Here’s the truth most beginners don’t hear:
👉 Squash isn’t about winning points.
👉 It’s about not losing them.
Control the rally.
Hold your position.
Make fewer mistakes.
Do that… and you’ll beat most players at your level without doing anything spectacular.
🔁 Final Thought (That Changes Everything)
If you remember one thing, make it this:
“Earn the right to attack.”
Build the rally first.
Then finish it.
🔗 Keep Improving Your Game
👉 Read more on the OLIVER blog: https://oliversquash.co.uk/blog/
👉 Dive into Coaching Corner: https://oliversquash.co.uk/category/coaching-corner/