Why you should video record your next match

Have you ever wondered why it’s so important to record your squash games? Well,  it’s a game-changer when it comes to learning and improving your skills on the court. Let’s get started.

Learning from Every Match

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “But I only learn when I lose, right?” Wrong! That’s a common misconception. The truth is, you can learn something valuable from every single match, regardless of whether you win or lose.

Think about it this way: the difference between winning and losing can sometimes be as little as two points. Imagine a match that ends with a score of 11-9, 11-9, 9-11, 9-11, 11-9. Crazy, right? But it just goes to show that the outcome can come down to a few crucial moments.

On the flip side, if you find yourself losing 0-11, 0-11, 0-11, or winning 11-0, 11-0, 11-0, chances are you’re not going to learn much. When there’s no real pressure or competition, it’s tough to identify areas where you can improve.

The Difference Between Learning and Improving

Now, let’s talk about the difference between learning and improving. Learning is when you realize, “Hey, my forehand straight drop is way too high!” Improving is when you actually practice that shot until you can execute it perfectly in matches. See the difference?

The Role of Pressure in Learning

The close matches, the ones that really push you to your limits – that’s where the magic happens. It’s during those tense moments when you might make a silly mistake or choose the wrong shot. Those experiences reveal the issues you need to work on or the opportunities for improvement.

Embrace those pressure-filled matches, because they’re the ones that will help you grow the most as a player.

The Need for Reflection and Analysis

Okay, so you’ve played a close match, but now what?

If you just move on without taking the time to reflect and analyse what happened, you’re missing out on a huge opportunity for growth. Some players can remember the critical moments, but let’s be honest, most of us struggle to recall the details.

That’s where recording your matches comes in handy.

The Benefits of Recording Your Matches

When you record your games, you get to revisit the action with fresh eyes. You don’t need to be a coach to analyze your performance. Trust me, when you watch the footage, certain patterns and shot selection choices will become crystal clear.

Focus on the big stuff – the critical mistakes and recurring patterns – rather than getting caught up in the nitty-gritty of technique.

Developing a Habit of Reflection

After a close or important match, take some time to reflect on how you played. This practice will help you become more aware of what’s happening on the court. Write down your observations, whether you prefer pen and paper or going digital.

You can reflect by watching the video, replaying key moments in your mind, or even discussing the match with someone who was there to watch.

Turning Knowledge into Action

Now, here’s the crucial part: you can’t just observe and reflect – you need to take action based on what you’ve learned.

Use the insights you gained from your reflections to adjust your game plan for future matches or to inform your training sessions. Remember, observation without action is like a car without wheels – it’s not going anywhere.

Final Thoughts

Losing sucks, let’s be real. But many successful athletes use their defeats as motivation to improve.

So, in addition to getting fired up, use each experience to learn about both the physical and mental aspects of your squash game. Apply that knowledge to your training plan, and watch as your skills skyrocket.

Conclusion

Recording and analysing your squash matches is a game-changer when it comes to learning and improving. Make it a regular part of your training routine. Whether you win or lose, there’s always something to learn, and with each match, you’ll become a more skilled and aware player.

So, what are you waiting for? Start recording and get ready to take your squash game to the next level!