Badminton Tricks and Tips

Badminton is more than just a simple game you play for fun on a lazy afternoon in your front lawn. There are serious professionals dedicated to the sport, and they know that a simple, light racket and a flimsy plastic shuttle can do amazing things while in serious play. There are some easy but nifty badminton tricks that can help make that next lazy Sunday more interesting.

  1. The Horizontal Return

    • A horizontal return passes just above the net.

      A "horizontal return" is a simple trick in badminton when a player sends the shuttle, or birdie, just over the top of the net in a straight line to the opposing player. The shot is sent with as much velocity as possible. This trick is most effective when aimed at the opposing player's ear or eye level, forcing the player to move out of the way to get in a good position for a return. It also deprives the opposing player of the height needed to perform a smash, another easy and useful trick.

    The Smash

    • The smash trick is aptly named, both literally and figuratively. The player hits the birdie with as much power as possible while maintaining careful aim, usually at a steep downward angle so the shuttle zips past the opposing player more quickly than they can catch it. This move is easiest to execute when the birdie is moving relatively slowly, giving you time to aim and swing fully. By extending your arm as much as possible, you can get the most power into the shot.

    Countering the Tricks

    • As a player, it is just as important to know how to counter these moves as it is to execute them. Prevention is the key. Hold your racket higher than waist level to help counter the horizontal return. Use fast moves at high or low elevations to keep your opponent from executing a smash. Aim your return as close to a player as possible to compromise the strength of their returns and test their agility.

    General Badminton Tips

    • Don't let the small court and lightweight equipment of badminton fool you into thinking fitness isn't important to this sport. Joint health is quite important. Frequent stops and starts on the court can be hard on knees and ankles, and wrist strength and flexibility are essential for more complex backhand and return techniques. Hand-eye coordination and speed are also essential badminton skills that will improve with practice.