How to Hold a Badminton Racket

Properly holding a badminton racket is easy but not intuitive, and most beginners hold the racket incorrectly. Knowing how to hold a badminton racket correctly for the two most common grips is very important to playing the game well, advancing your skill set and looking professional out on the court.

Instructions

  1. Forehand Grip

    • 1

      Stand the racket up on the ground with the head of the racket facing down. Hold it firmly between your feet with the side of the racket facing towards your body.

    • 2

      Reach down and "shake hands" with the racket grip using your dominant hand. Place the thumb on the opposite side of the racket as your fingers, and gently curl your fingers around the grip.

    • 3

      Spread your fingers comfortably, but not too much. The grip should be natural and comfortable, with your thumb pointing towards the racket head and your forefinger close to the top of the grip.

    • 4

      Turn the racket to make sure that your fingers and thumb are positioned to make a "V" shape on the racket grip. The "V" should be pointing towards the side of the racket head.

    Backhand Grip

    • 5

      Hold the racket in the forehand grip, with the side of the racket facing the ground.

    • 6

      Turn your hand on the grip counterclockwise, so that the "V" shape created by your thumb and forefinger is pointed towards the face of the racket.

    • 7

      Narrow the "V" shape between your thumb and forefinger by straightening out your thumb so it is firm against the side of the grip. This will give you leverage when hitting the shuttlecock. The thumb will be facing towards your body as you swing.