Okay, I was not blessed with much hand-eye co-ordination... I'm much more at home on a treadmill or a spinning bike. However, there are very talented people out there who can manage to alternate between a forehand and a backhand, so this comparison is for you:
Tennis vs squash
Tennis vs squash
Tennis
How quickly will it make a difference?
After six to eight weeks of twice-weekly matches.
How many calories does it burn?
476 per hour in a singles match or 340 in a doubles.
Will it keep me motivated?
Tennis is competitive and in the summer there is nothing better than heading outdoors to a tennis court. However, your motivation to play can be dampened somewhat when it comes to seeking out indoor courts over the winter months.
Specific benefits:
The power for a shot is initiated from ground level - the strength for a great serve is provided by the push off from the quadriceps in your thighs. Sharp turns and twists put the abdominals and upper body through a vigorous workout, holding the racket and hitting the ball exercises your arms and shoulders, and your forearms absorb the impact from the ball contact.
Risk factors:
It works one side of the body more than the other, so muscle imbalance is common unless you work on your less-dominant side in the gym.
Squash
How quickly will it make a difference?
Two to three weeks if playing three times a week.
How many calories does it burn?
748 per hour.
Will it keep me motivated?
Undoubtedly. It is sociable and, if you join a club, there will be coaching and a league structure.
Specific benefits:
Recently rated the number-one healthy sport - ahead of rowing - by Forbes magazine, squash is easier to learn than tennis and you can play all year round. It also helps to improve the strength of your legs, arms and core region.
Risk factors:
There is a sporty adage that goes: "You don't play squash to get fit, you get fit to play squash." Because it is so physically demanding, researchers at Liverpool John Moores University recently warned older and unfit people not to launch into it full-pelt as it could put unnecessary strain on the heart and body.
Victor: SQUASH!
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