Most racquetball pros have a pre-match warm-up routine. For instance in the case of Rocky Carson, he always starts his warm-up hitting his backhand shots. He takes particular care to work on his ceiling ball game. According to Rocky:
Without a good ceiling ball game, you’re going to get eaten up!
He then hits his complete range of down-the-line, x-court, and pinch shots. After hitting both backhands and forehands, he then works on his most important serves, the drive z’s and lob nicks.
So during your court warm-up, your routine should include practicing all the shots you will be hitting during your match.
Your warm-up routine may also include some stretching/yoga, treadmill, stationary bike, or jump-rope time.
Charlie Pratt explains the key benefits to a good warm-up:
- It allows you to play at full speed right out of the gate.
- You get a full rotation on your shots, which means more power.
- You can lunge and stretch for balls.
- Activates your mind.
- You are much less likely to pull a muscle or injury yourself (I think this one is most important).
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