Squash is a popular sport that has already established its status in the West and continues to develop in Russia. We have told you more than once what squash is, where it originated, what it is for and how it should be practiced. You can learn about all this here:
But few people know that squash, in addition to developing endurance and reaction speed, is probably one of the best alternatives to fitness and a great way to get your body in perfect shape. If we summarize all the facts and reduce them to a couple of sentences: squash is an ideal and even intensity load on your body. And the game form of the lesson allows you not to fixate on routine exercises and time spent in the gym.
And now let’s understand together: why do we lose weight playing squash?
Work for the heart, or cardio is not just about running
Yes, yes, the activities on the court are not at all similar to cyclic and monotonous running training, but in the meantime squash provides an impressive warm-up for the cardiovascular and respiratory system. For one hour of active play you can spend up to 1000 (!) calories.
Huvitav fakt: considering that amateurs and professionals trainings last on average 2-3 hours, for one such game you can burn about daily calories, and sometimes even more. Beginners’ training usually lasts no more than 1.5 hours, so the energy expenditure is not so great, but still very tangible.
Vihje: Before the game, it is important to have energy so that the training does not become exhausting, but brings only pleasure. Have a light carbohydrate snack before practice – it can be your favorite fruit or vegetable. And if you’re worried that you won’t have enough energy for the rest of the workout, especially when you’re not used to it, bring an isotonic drink or regular ascorbic acid.
Ideal layout: pump but don’t over-pump your muscles
Playing squash involves almost 70% of your muscles. The movements you perform during the game put a lot of strain on your glutes and legs. But in addition to this, squash helps to strengthen all the muscles of the body and abs and, importantly, not to overwork them. This is achieved due to the fact that during the game there are elements of stretching. Squash is especially useful for women: regular lunges, bends and twists are extremely beneficial to the figure.
Want a perfect waist and toned buttocks for the summer season? Get off the exercise bike and go to the court in the company of colleagues or your favorite girlfriend!
A boost of endorphins
In squash, as in any sport, one of the main elements is the competitive element. The excitement of watching and hitting the ball makes players put a lot more energy into the game than if they were to make another trip to the gym.
The success we experience when we win in a sport makes us want to win again, and therefore put in more energy to do better. In addition, playing with pleasure promotes the production of endorphins – the hormones of happiness, youth and health. An increase in the concentration of this hormone improves blood circulation and stimulates brain function.
Finding a balance
It is important to remember that you should not overdo it in this sport, as in any other, in order to lose weight. Everything should be done in moderation, because if you follow a diet and spent all your strength on training, you will wake up a great desire to break the diet and eat more food. You need to combine squash with proper nutrition and timely rest, and then the result will not make you wait.
Good luck on the court!