In addition to the high level of skill required to be a squash player, to be successful you need, among other things, good speed, agility and endurance and lots of time for training! However, which of these are more important? Below is a discussion about the fitness requirements for squash, which can help with developing training programs for this sport, and for interpreting fitness testing results and determining the relative strengths and weaknesses of a player.
Reaction Time is most important
We have an online poll asking people to rate the 12 factors of success for sports. Visitors to this site have rated each of these factors for the sport of squash, and the most important according to them is reaction time, followed by skill. Reaction time is something that is difficult to train, but you can improve your skill, and improve your agility, so that you are able to react quicker on the court. You can also add your ratings of Which Factors Make Successful Squash Players, and see the latest results.
Most Important Factors for Success in Order of Importance (data from 2018)
5.0 Reaction Time
4.5 Skill and Technique
4.5 Motivation & Self Confidence
4.4 Aerobic Endurance
4.4 Analytic & Tactical Ability
4.4 Coping with Pressure Situations
4.7 Balance & Coordination
3.9 Agility
3.6 Speed / Quickness
3.5 Flexibility
3.4 Body Size and Composition
3.2 Strength & Power