Racquetball is a game that requires speed, quickness, athletic ability and shot-making ability. However, when racquetball players start competing regularly, it's as much about strategy and planning as it is about using the correct form to strike the ball. When competing at a high level, the players who have the most success are the ones who can out think their opponents and make them think a certain shot is coming and then deliver something else.
Court Positioning
Dominate your opponent when playing racquetball by getting between him and the front wall. The player who is closest to the front wall has the best chance to dictate the pace of the point. When you are in front of your opponent and you receive a shot to hit, he will have less time to react to the ball then if he is the same distance from the wall as you or behind you. If you can hit the ball toward the corner of the backcourt, the only thing your opponent can do is race to that portion of the court and try to return the shot. He cannot attack. You remain in control of the point and you should as long as you are in front of him on the court.
Ceiling Shot
Buy time in the middle of the point by using the ceiling shot to blunt your opponent's advantage. If your opponent is dictating the pace of a particular point or if you feel that he is about to take the advantage, you can keep this from happening by executing a well-placed ceiling shot. Hit the ball to the ceiling within six to 12 inches from the front wall. This will send the ball down to the floor and then back up high before your opponent can hit it. He will always be in the backcourt when you hit a well-executed ceiling shot. This will put the point on even terms until you are ready to take control.
Backhand Attack
Use your backhand to attack your opponent. The backhand is traditionally a defensive shot, and when a player prepares to make a backhand hit, most opponents think that that player is just trying to return a shot. However, by unleashing a down-the-line or cross-court backhand shot struck with full force, you will gain the advantage. There is a subtle difference in a well-struck backhand and a powerful forehand. The forehand shot requires a windup, but the backhand requires a flick of the wrist. It takes less time to unleash this shot and with a bit of practice it will become the dominant shot in your arsenal.
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