Racquetball - Playing Tips After more than a half-century, racquetball survived the vagaries of trends and is now played by millions worldwide. Depending on your playing skills, racquetball can be easy and just right or can be hard and fast. The following are some playing tips directed especially for beginning players or those that are not yet in the mid-class category. Passing shots For an offensive move, the best passing shot is done down the line. Here the ball travels down the side of the court from the front wall to the back corner. Aim 4 feet to 8 feet out from the side wall, and not any higher. If it is high enough, the ball rebounds off the back wall where your opponent can return it. On the defensive side returning a serve is as vital as executing one. Remember to keep your racquet fixed at the center front of your body using a backhand grip since most serves are directed to the backhand side. Also in order to ensure a good return your body should be oriented to the side wall not the front wall. Service is then received by the other two individuals who will play as a unit. California or in-and-out is also a three-player game. This involves two persons going head to head while the third competitor waits in the back court. A rally takes place with the winner coming out to serve the waiting player. It is a game that is characterized by blazing rallies from each combatant. Offensive shots are being thrown from almost every detail of the court. Fans are treated to a party filled with upbeat tunes. Straight-in shots are delivered so as to strike the front wall lower than usual. A kill shot is produced when the ball comes in contact with the front wall so low that it bounces twice before reaching the service line. An important point is having the proper grip size on your racquet a inch or so of space between fingers and palm. This happens quite often to women who are sold racquets with grips too large for their hands. Handshake formation Your grip on your racquet should begin with a V formation of your thumb and forefinger.