How to Play Badminton Like a Pro

The sport of badminton is friendly, accessible and lots and lots of fun. It can also be highly competitive. From friends playing for pride in a backyard or on a beach to collegiate or even national teams, badminton can be played with a level of skill far beyond the average or beginning player. There is no right or wrong way to play the game, but there are better ways. Working on your grip, serve, clearing shots, smashing shots and driving shots will give you the tools you need to play the sport of badminton at a more competitive level. Winning isn't everything, but it sure is a lot of fun.

Things You'll Need

  • Badminton racket
  • Badminton net
  • Opponent
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Instructions

  1. Grip and Shots

    • 1

      Hold the racket head with your non-playing hand, with the handle pointing toward you. Grip the handle loosely. This will give you greater flexibility and control. Shorten your grip, holding the racket closer to the head, if you need an additional increase in control. Hold the racket the same way to hit backhand shots, but place your thumb against the back of the handle for greater power and control when hitting backhand.

    • 2

      Start two to three feet behind the service line when serving. Relax your body and bend your knees. Lead with your non-racket leg. Bring your racket back to shoulder level, then swing forward in rhythm. Hold the shuttlecock by its feathers and drop it slightly in front of you while keeping the face of the racket flat as you strike. Follow through until the head of the racket reaches the opposite side of your head.

    • 3

      Execute an attacking clear when you sense your opponent is off balance and want to give him little time to react to your volley. Strike the shuttlecock with power, with a trajectory that is low and parallel with the ground.

    • 4

      Execute a defensive clear when you need time to reset. Strike the shuttlecock with a trajectory that is high and leaves the shuttlecock as deep into your opponent's box as possible.

    • 5

      Execute a smash when your opponent's volley is especially weak. This is a powerful shot that, when executed correctly, makes it very difficult for your opponent to return a shot. Shift your weight to your rear foot then bend your elbow and lock your wrist. Point at the incoming shuttlecock with your non-racket hand. Strike the shuttlecock at as high a point of impact as you can reach with a flat racket face. Follow through and shift your weight to your front foot.

    • 6

      Execute a drive when you want to attack, but the shuttlecock has fallen too low for a smash. Lead with your racket leg. Keep your racket foot pointed toward the sideline, then shift your weight to your racket leg as you swing parallel to the ground. Strike the shuttlecock at the highest point possible. Be sure to follow through.