When it comes to the debate of which popular racquet sport is faster – squash or badminton – it’s a difficult question to answer. Both sports require players to have quick reflexes and lightning-fast movements, and the speed of the game depends largely on the skill of the players. That said, this article will examine the differences between the two sports in terms of speed and provide an overall conclusion on which one is the faster game.
Speed of the Ball
One of the biggest factors that impact the speed of a racquet sport is the speed of the ball. In squash, the ball is slightly larger (about 2.7 inches in diameter) and heavier than a badminton shuttlecock, making it travel faster through the air. The average squash ball travels at speeds of up to 100 miles per hour, while a badminton shuttlecock typically moves at around 60 miles per hour. This makes squash the faster of the two sports.
Court Size
Another important factor that affects the speed of a racquet sport is the size of the court. Squash courts are much smaller than badminton courts, measuring about 20 feet by 40 feet. The smaller space puts more pressure on the players to make quick decisions and move quickly. On the other hand, badminton courts are around 44 feet by 20 feet, giving players more time to adjust to the speed of the game. This makes badminton slightly slower than squash.
Stroke Speed
The speed of the racquet stroke is also important in determining which sport is faster. Squash is typically played at a much higher speed than badminton because it requires the players to generate more power in their strokes. Badminton players, on the other hand, use a lighter grip on the racquet and can make quicker strokes, resulting in less power. This means that badminton can be played at a faster pace than squash.
Overall Speed
When it comes to overall speed, squash is the faster of the two sports. The smaller court size puts more pressure on the players to move quickly, and the larger, heavier ball allows for faster rallies. Badminton, on the other hand, is slightly slower due to its larger court size and lighter shuttlecock. However, the speed of the game can vary greatly depending on the skill of the players.
Conclusion
In conclusion, squash is the faster of the two sports. The smaller court size and heavier ball combine to make the game faster than badminton. However, the skill of the players can also have a significant impact on the speed of the game. Ultimately, the best way to determine which sport is faster is to play both and experience them for yourself.