Five indisputable reasons why it’s time for you and your family to start your squash journey now

Forget all those outdated misconceptions about the sport, and pick up a racquet at one of Open Squash’s inclusive—and affordable—facilities.
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    Photograph by Eliza Kommer, provided by Open Squash
  2. Open Squash
    Photograph by Eliza Kommer, provided by Open Squash
  3. Open Squash
    Photograph by Eliza Kommer, provided by Open Squash
  4. Open Squash
    Photograph by Eliza Kommer, provided by Open Squash
  5. Open Squash
    Photograph by Eliza Kommer, provided by Open Squash
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    Photograph by Eliza Kommer, provided by Open Squash
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    Photograph by Eliza Kommer, provided by Open Squash
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    Photograph by Eliza Kommer, provided by Open Squash
  9. Open Squash
    Photograph by Eliza Kommer, provided by Open Squash
  10. Open Squash
    Photograph by Eliza Kommer, provided by Open Squash
Written by Kate Schweitzer for Time Out, in partnership with Open Squash
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This advertising content was produced in collaboration between Time Out and Open Squash, without involvement from the Time Out editorial staff.

Be honest: when you think about squash, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? If it’s hot-headed, middle-aged corporate managers in tight shorts releasing pent-up rage against their fellow male colleagues in a stuffy private club, you’re not alone. Squash has gotten a reputation—albeit an antiquated one—as an exclusive boy’s club that’s as pricey as it is sweaty.

The only truth in that stereotype? The sweat. There’s certainly plenty of that. But the rest of that bad rep is what inspired the creation of Open Squash, New York’s first and only public squash facility specifically designed to democratize squash and open up the sport—and its vast list of benefits—to a broader audience.

Designed to make the sport more accessible and affordable, the non-profit (yes, it’s a non-profit!) is quickly expanding throughout the city, with a new FiDi facility opening in September at 100 Pearl Street. Memberships for this space are already open—and if you’re among the first 100 to sign up, you can score up to two months free. If, however, you can’t wait until fall, Open Squash has you covered. Its state-of-the-art facility at Bryant Park on 29 W. 39th Street is up and running, complete with adult and junior summer camps and programming for all ages and experience levels.

So, if you’re willing to erase your preconceived notions about squash, pick up a racquet, and discover your new favorite way to work out, Open Squash is ready for you. Need more convincing? No problem. We’ve got five good reasons to try squash—and a special code for Time Out readers for a 10% discount on adult or junior camps—or FREE beginner classes!

Five reasons to pick up a squash racquet now

1. It’s the new pickleball.

You may have heard that pickleball was one of the fastest-growing sports during the height of the pandemic. It’s true that pickleball—a mix of tennis, ping pong and badminton—was an ideal sport during the height of social distancing thanks to its large outdoor courts, but the game is typically undemanding. Squash is on the cusp of an explosion in popularity, sitting squarely in the zeitgeist through shows like Queen's Gambit and Inventing Anna. Particularly among younger players, it offers a faster, more engaging pace and thus a more intense workout. Plus, thanks to the close proximity with players on the court and a solid sports community beyond it, squash is just as fun as its fellow racquet sport, if not more so. And, if that doesn’t clinch it, the fact that indoor courts make squash playable all year round will certainly entice New Yorkers who want to keep at it, rain, shine, unbearable heat or freezing snow.

2. It’s welcoming to all, even beginners who’ve never picked up a racquet.

Open Squash prides itself on being inclusive and provides expertise, training and support for those new to the sport in a way that’s approachable and fun—not intimidating or unattainable. With a community of true squash enthusiasts, coaches and members alike enjoy welcoming new players who will learn the game while making lasting friendships. You can’t play squash alone, and you’ll always have a partner at Open Squash.

3. It’s a great workout for your body and your brain.

Squash is known as a fitness accelerator in that those who play will see near-immediate improvements—it’s a full-body workout that burns a ridiculously high number of calories during just a 30-minute session. And because squash involves running, lunging, and leaping for the ball, it’s one of the best sports for both core strength and cardiovascular health. But perhaps the best hidden benefit of squash is the mental boost players get thanks to improved physical and hand-eye coordination which sharpens information processing and strategic focus. As a whole brain exercise, consider squash a very physical version of chess.

4. It’s open to all ages—and perfect for the whole family.

Young or old, squash meets its players where they are. That’s why Open Squash actually wants you to show up with your kids. In fact, it’s one of the best places to start a lifelong love of the sport. With coaches who are invested in growing your family’s interest in the game and day camp programs designed exclusively to introduce newer athletes to the fundamentals, and even programs for college-bound kids looking to compete at the next level, the opportunities are endless.

5. It’s not going to empty out your bank account.

Remember how this isn’t a sport just for uber-rich investment bankers? That’s especially true at Open Squash, which offers sliding-scale membership discounts, junior scholarships and income-based discounts—in addition to its three membership tiers—in order to reach a more diverse socioeconomic crowd. Open Squash is truly for all.

Special offer for Time Out readers

Register today and join the summer of squash.

Just remember to use the promo code TIMEOUT for a 10-percent discount on adult-beginner classes and junior summer camps.

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