Tennis vs Squash: Which Suits You?
Tennis and squash both use racquets and reward fitness, but the experience couldn't be more different. One is a strategic open-court game; the other is a 200-watt-burst war in a 9.75m glass box.
Quick Comparison
Court: Tennis 23.77m outdoor open court. Squash 9.75m x 6.4m enclosed glass box, four-walled. Ball: Tennis felt rubber. Squash hollow rubber, much smaller, doesn't bounce until warmed up. Scoring: Tennis 15-30-40 sets. Squash PAR 11 -- first to 11 wins game, 3 games match.
Skill Crossover
Less than you'd expect. Tennis swings are long and shoulder-driven -- squash swings are short and wrist-led. Tennis players often hit too long initially. The hand-eye and footwork transfer, but the technical reset is real (3-6 weeks of regular play).
Fitness Demands
Squash is statistically more intense per minute -- a 45-min squash match burns 700-900 calories vs 600-800 in 60-min tennis singles. Squash is closer to HIIT; tennis closer to sustained aerobic. Both elite for cardiovascular health. See tennis fitness benefits.
Equipment & Cost
Tennis: racket $80-$300, balls $10/can. Court hire $20-$30/hr outdoor. Squash: racket $80-$250, balls $10 for 2 (last longer). Court hire $20-$35/hr. Squash plays year-round indoors -- no rain delays.
Court Availability in Australia
Squash courts have declined since the 1990s -- many gyms now have one rather than dedicated centres. Tennis is far more accessible (7,000+ public courts vs ~1,500 squash). Squash centres concentrated in capital cities.
The Verdict
Squash is the most efficient cardio in racquet sports -- perfect for time-poor players. Tennis is the more sociable game with deeper tactical layers and outdoor enjoyment. Many Australians play tennis on weekends and squash for midweek fitness.
Related
Tennis vs Pickleball | Tennis vs Padel | Tennis vs Badminton.
Tennis gear with crossover use
Wristbands, headbands, and grips suit any racquet sport.