Looking for a place to play squash in Chicago? Lakeshore Sport & Fitness offers programs and match play opportunities for players of all skill levels. Take a lesson, attend a mixer, or book a court to play with your fellow members! Learn more about our Chicago squash programs.

What is Squash?

Squash is a racquet sport played on a four-walled court with a small, hollow rubber ball. It can be played with 2 players (singles) or 4 players (doubles). The players alternate striking the ball with their racquets against the playable surfaces of the walls. The objective of the game, much like tennis, is to play the ball in a way where your opponent is unable to make a valid return.

Points are scored when the server wins the rally. If the non-serving side wins the rally, they will then serve. Serving is done from designated boxes on either side of the court. After the serve, players take turns hitting the ball against the front wall above the tin and below the out line. The ball may bounce on the floor once and any number of times against the side or back walls after it has hit the front wall before a player must return it. Players can move around anywhere on the court just as long they don’t obstruct their opponent.

For a more detailed explanation on the Rules of Squash, visit the US Squash website or talk to our Squash Pros at Lakeshore Sport & Fitness! You can email them at [email protected] to learn more.

Why Play Squash?

Squash is both fun and challenging. Known for its fast pace and intense gameplay, squash offers a fantastic workout that keeps you on your toes—literally. The game requires quick reflexes, sharp agility, and mental focus, pushing your body and mind in ways other sports don’t. With constant movement and rapid changes in direction, you’ll feel your heart rate rise as you chase down your opponent’s every shot.

Beyond the physical benefits, squash is also a highly social sport. The squash community, especially at Lakeshore Sport & Fitness, is vibrant and welcoming, making it easy to connect with others who share your passion. Whether through regular matches, taking lessons, or joining squash mixers, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to build friendships while improving your game.

So, whether you’re looking for a heart-pumping workout or a new way to meet people, squash offers the best of both worlds!

Play Squash in Downtown Chicago

Our Illinois Center facility offers members a chance to hone their skills, learn some finesse, and exercise their minds as well as their bodies through our Downtown Chicago Squash programs.

Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the sport, our five squash courts are a great place to learn and refine your game. Compete and socialize while improving your game at our weekly round-robin mixers, schedule your own private games through our online scheduling portal or reserve the courts for your own private functions. In addition, we offer private, semi-private, and group lessons and camps for beginners and seasoned players looking to hone their skills.

Squash Lessons

Whether you’re just picking up a racquet or looking to refine advanced techniques, squash lessons offer something for everyone. Our private, semi-private, and group lessons are designed to cater to all skill levels—from beginners learning the basics to seasoned players focusing on specific aspects of their game. Lessons cover essential techniques like racquet control, straight and cross-court drives, boasts, volleys, lobs, drop-shots, and serves. Additionally, we address crucial elements such as court movement, defensive and offensive strategies, solo practice routines, and squash-specific fitness training to elevate your performance.

Drill Groups

Kickstart your day or get a lunchtime workout in with our squash drill groups! These small-group sessions, available in the early morning and midday, are designed for two or three players who want to elevate their game. You’ll work on refining stroke production, enhancing court movement, and boosting aerobic fitness—all in a supportive and engaging environment. These drill groups offer a perfect balance of personalized attention and group camaraderie.

Open Squash Challenge

Test your skills in our Open Squash Challenge! This round-robin format not only offers exciting gameplay but also provides valuable tips, discussions, and feedback from our squash pros to help you enhance your performance on the court.

Free Squash Skill Assessment

New to squash or looking to up your game? Take advantage of our free 30-minute squash skill assessment! It’s the perfect opportunity for new members, or those curious about trying the sport, to receive personalized feedback and discover how squash can become their next fitness passion.

Learn More About Our Squash Programs