Pushing your limits is great. Really pushing them, preferable on the squash courts. There, the game is the only thing that counts, and I can achieve an optimal flow. The sport becomes a tunnel in which I disappear. A runner’s high tunnel. I jump and slam faster than I can think, my body seemingly acting of its own volition, like a well-oiled machine.
To some, exercise is a chore, made bearable only by the social setting in which it takes place. To me, sports is something to look forward to, but also a necessity. If I don’t work out for a few days, I feel restless: I’m an addict. Only when I have whetted my thirst for exercise, do I feel satisfied and relaxed. So, it may also be an ‘obligation’, but in a different way.
If I don’t work out for a few days, I feel restless
What is it that makes squash so much fun? The enjoyment of sports is something you must experience rather than ponder. Overthinking kills pleasure. But, simply stating that would make this a very short column, so I will extrapolate a little. The physical challenges are combined with a strategic challenge, much like a chess game. A person’s position on the court determines which ball can be reached and which will fly past. The “T” is a spot in the centre of the court to be conquered and defended, as it is the position that enables you to reach any ball. All other positions leave you vulnerable. However, only one person can stand at the T-position: the attacker. The other person is forced into a defending role. You can try to coax your partner away from the centre, or you can lock someone into a corner using your body or the placement of the ball. The next slam is a then checkmate.
Pushing yourself through student life without practising a sport is a sport in itself.
Sports is an excellent way for me to release any frustrations or negative emotions. Much healthier and a lot cheaper than smoking or smashing dishes or furniture. How do people who don’t exercise cope? How do they manage their emotions? Working out in the middle of the day revitalises my mind and concentration. Perfect for my study progress. Pushing yourself through student life without practising a sport is a sport in itself.
What sports do you enjoy and why? Is the social aspect or the physical aspect more important? And what is better, a team sport or an individual sport? Let me know!
Steven is a master’s student of Economy and Governance and enjoys playing squash. He is always open to a game of squash and a good conversation. You can reach him by email.
