Badminton is a fast-growing sport that requires utmost physical fitness. Badminton is an easy sport to learn and anyone can play it without any hesitation. Playing the sport offers many health benefits, as well as enjoyment. To be a great player in this sport, you will need to learn basic badminton skills. If you want to be a pro, the basics will guide you through your journey. These are the 7 fundamental badminton skills that you can learn on your own, or with coaching.
Basic skills of badminton
Basic skills of badminton
It is important to have a good grip when holding the racket. This will allow you to control shots and minimize the risk of getting injured. You will be able to effortlessly play your backhand and forehand strokes with a good grip.
A racket can be held in a similar way to a friendly handshake. The handle grip will have the thumb resting comfortably on the larger surface. The rest of your hand will mimic a handshake. Keep the handshake relaxed and avoid tight gripping. This will limit flexibility and could cause wrist injuries.
Forehand and Backhand Grip: Basic skills for badminton
There is only one difference between the two types of strokes: the use of your fingers.
While playing forehand strokes, push the index finger forward.
While playing backhand strokes, push the thumb forward.
Badminton Skills
Your stance refers to how you position yourself while playing badminton. It can be used between rallies and before the serve. Stability and accuracy will make it easier to move. There are three types of stances:
Attacking Stance:
This is useful for getting into position before you play an overhead forehand stroke. With racket leg behind and your legs shoulder-width apart, you can now stand in an attacking stance. To attack the shuttle's downward trajectory, raise both racket- and non-racket arms.
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Defensive Standing:
You must be ready to defend your opponent's smash. Place your racket at the waist, slightly in front of the opponent's body, and face the net. The non-racket arm can be kept as comfortable, while still ensuring balance.
Net Stance
After playing a net shot, you must assume this stance to be ready for your opponent's return. This shot is played by placing your racket foot forward and keeping the non-racket foot behind. The racket should be placed in front of your body at a little more than waist height. To pounce forward, shift the bodyweight forward.
Footwork
Badminton is played in a small space and requires that the players take care of their surroundings while they play. The footwork is crucial for ensuring a smooth and efficient movement on the court. Some coaches consider footwork more important than other skills.
Tips for proper footwork
Remember the base (or starting point) always.
Move only 2 to 3 steps back
Move only one step sidewards.
Move only 2 to 3 steps forward
Serve
Badminton is a game that requires you to be able to serve. You should also ensure that you make legal services, as it could lead to penalties.
There are two types of badminton service, depending on where the shuttle is landing.
High Serve
High serve is aimed at the back-end corner on the opponent's side. A good high serve will result in the shuttle falling steeply to the back of the court. A high serve is actually presented to opponents who are capable of executing a strong smash. As a response to a well-executed high serve, you can expect a lob from your opponent or a drop.
It is generally recommended that the shuttle be served to the opponent's backhand. This is to exploit the weaker backhands of most players.
Low Serve
Low serve is not like high serve. It aims at the front of the court. The goal is for the shuttle to land in the front corner of the court just above the net. If the execution is not perfect, your opponent can sprint forward and smash it to you.
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