Badminton Backhand Technique

The backhand can be an awkward and unusual stroke to adjust to when playing badminton. When first playing the backhand, it can be hard to control the direction and force with which you hit the shuttlecock. With hard work, dedication and practice, you can develop a strong backhand game, including the highly useful backhand clear and unpredictable backhand serves.

  1. Grip

    • Establish the correct grip to play a backhand shot with the back of your hand facing toward the net and opposite side of the court. Holster your thumb firmly against the handle's back bevel, which, according to Badminton Information, improves your leverage and power when playing a backhand stroke. Rest the remainder of the racket handle more loosely in your fingers to help your comfort and ability to flick the shuttlecock.

    Footwork

    • Step forward to meet the shuttlecock with your dominant foot. Sweep through the shuttlecock, attempting to meet it before it is level or past your body to make your backhand an aggressive shot. Do not worry if you end up with your back to court as you play the stroke, as this is natural. Return to the center of the court as quickly as possible once you have played your stroke.

    Backhand Clear

    • One of the most common defensive shots that you will play on the backhand side is the backhand clear. This shot, played above the head, should be used when the shuttlecock is hit by your opponent above your head, dropping into the back of your court. Turn your back to the net as you play the backhand clear, before electing to spin all the way through to a forward facing position. Angle the shuttlecock downward and just over the net to play the backhand clear as an aggressive stroke or hit it high over the net toward the back of the court for a defensive play.

    Backhand Serve

    • Develop a range of backhand serves, which use the same grip as rallying backhand shots, to give yourself a strong and unpredictable service game. Play a low serve, aiming to land on or just inside the opponent's service court and force them low, and use a gentle push, rather than a flick, to deliver the shuttlecock. Use a backhand drive serve to flick the shuttlecock to the baseline of your opponent's service court. Stop the racket head after you hit the shuttlecock, rather than following through, as this will help you keep the shuttlecock within bounds.