Play Racquetball

Step onto the court, serve the ball hard against the front wall, and get ready for a game that barely gives you time to stand still. Racquetball is played inside an enclosed court where walls, floor and ceiling can all become part of the rally, so the ball can come back at you from almost any angle. It is fast, physical and initially chaotic, but once you start reading the rebounds, the game becomes much more tactical. The rules are relatively simple. Players alternate hitting the ball against the front wall before it bounces twice, with singles and doubles both common formats. Unlike tennis or squash, there is no net and far more of the surrounding court remains live, which creates unusual angles and demands quick reactions. Most beginners can start rallying fairly quickly, even if controlling placement and anticipating rebounds takes much longer. Book a racquetball court at a sports centre or club, borrow or hire a racquet if available, and play with somebody who is happy to keep the first few games informal. Protective eyewear is important because the ball moves quickly in a confined space, and non-marking court shoes help with the repeated changes of direction. Add this to your list and see how quickly four walls can turn into a full-body workout.