How to Teach Beginners in Badminton to Handle the Racket

The game of badminton---which is similar to tennis---is played with a net but with a slightly smaller racket and a plastic object designed to float in the air called a shuttlecock. Although it can be played outdoors, tournaments are usually held indoors. As with tennis, singles and doubles games can be played. Because of the size of the shuttlecock and the racket, badminton requires focus and patience. When teaching beginners how to handle a racket, make sure to stress these two points.

Things You'll Need

  • Racket
  • Shuttlecock
  • Net
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Instructions

    • 1

      Instruct your students to hold the base of the racket with a firm grip. Hold the racket as if you are shaking someone's hand. Avoid holding it like you would a panhandle, as that would provide less power.

    • 2

      Keep a close eye on the shuttlecock, or birdie. Do not swing blindly. Because the shuttlecock is small, it is very easy to miss while swinging.

    • 3

      Swing at a moderate speed when first learning how to play. Although it is tempting to swing your hardest, hard swings are difficult to control and make it easy to miss the shuttlecock or hit it out of play.

    • 4

      Use both sides of the racket, including hitting with your forehand and backhand. In a forehand position, the front of the racket will face the net, and in a backhand position, the back will face it. When the shuttlecock approaches your right side, hit with your forehand. When it approaches your left side, hit it with your backhand. To hit a backhand, you must bring the racket across the body.

    • 5

      Experiment with different ways to hit the shuttlecock. For example, when you are far away from the net, try to hit it high and lob it over. When you are close to the net, try to spike it or gently tap it over the net to confuse your opponent.