Squash is a game sport with a ball and racket. This sports discipline was born from tennis; only it has two significant differences:
– there is no net in squash;
– this game takes place indoors with walls.
It seems simple, but how it is, we find out from a talented player from Egypt with many years of experience playing squash – Moustafa Bayoumy. What will this professional tell us about all the details and specifics of this game?
So, Moustafa, what do you like most about squash?
Short and sweet. Three things:
- Physically – It is good for your health.
- Mentally – It is like chess. You constantly think ahead, move by move.
- And this is a constant challenge!
Tell us how did you get started?
Thanks to my family for everything. I started playing squash when I was 5. My father took me with him when he went to play with his friends. But I started taking squash seriously when I was 10, when I received my first award, taking third place and entering the top five in Egypt.
Probably your father was the most significant influence on your game style?
Yes, both of my parents. My father was a squash coach, and he constantly coached me in tournaments and training. He taught me to be strong and patient, to fight and work hard. Also, my mom. She devoted her whole life to me, took me from school to training, and helped me with my home and school assignments. She was my teacher and my supporter. My parents were always there for me every match.
How much time do you dedicate to squash every day?
All my life (laughing). On average, 5-7 hours a day for training and fitness.
Fitness? Is it a necessity, or is it just your sports hobby?
Yes, definitely. Fitness is a crucial ingredient in squash. A pre-season fitness regime often lasts 5-6 sessions per week and includes long-distance running, weight lifting, and full-body workouts. I also try to do stretching and yoga both before and after any fitness activity to avoid injury.
And what is the most common injury in squash?
Ankle and hamstring injuries because players can often slip in sweat and pull or break tendons. Plus, wrist injuries. After all, the wrists are not the most vital part of the body, and when they are constantly under tension, they often do not hold up.
About inspiration. Do you admire someone in sport? Your role model.
I admire world star Ramy Ashour. We used to play in the same Cairo club, “Heliopolis Club.” It has always been an honor and a pleasure for me to learn from him as he helped me develop my game plan and swing. I admire his uniquely creative way of playing.
What advice would you give to newbies?
To achieve a certain level, the main thing is desire, passion. Set a goal, find inspiration and a competent coach, and train hard!
And the last, very topical question now. How do you maintain your squash skills during the current COVID-19 lockdown?
Quarantine is the time to reboot and rethink your role in sports and life. I try to focus on new tasks, think about personal projects, and, of course, continuing systematic training. In any sport, the main thing is systematic. This will help you to always be in shape and never lose your playing skills.
So, despite his busy schedule, Moustafa took some time to give us an interview. After communicating with him, we concluded that squash is a challenging game and only super hardy and talented players can achieve real success. Let’s wish him to achieve his goals!
Author: Nastya Zelenovskaya