How to Play Doubles in Badminton

The most important aspect of playing badminton doubles is coordination with your partner.

Things You'll Need

  • Badminton Set
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Instructions

    • 1

      Decide in advance what formation, or combination of formations, you will use - discuss this in terms of your overall strategy.

    • 2

      Choose between a side-by-side formation, an up-and-back formation, or a rotation formation.

    • 3

      Use the side-by-side formation when your team is in a defensive position. Both teammates stand at midcourt, following a lifted return that puts your opponents on the attack.

    • 4

      Use the up-and-back formation when you are on the attack. One teammate covers the front, trying to get the smash shot off a weak return; the other covers the backcourt, to handle clear shots.

    • 5

      Use a rotation formation to recover from difficult shots that drive you out of position. Each time one partner moves, the other adjusts on the diagonal.

    • 6

      Use verbal communication until you and your partner understand each other well. After playing for a while with the same partner, this should become less necessary.

    • 7

      Serve short serves, unless your opponent is expecting them. Deep serves invite an attack.

    • 8

      Rush the serve when returning serves. Attack.

    • 9

      Crouch low when the shuttle is behind you so that your partner can more easily hit over your head. Keep your eyes forward and trust your partner.