7.
Basics
Badminton is played on a rectangular court that is divided by a net. The court dimensions
vary slightly for singles and doubles matches. The shuttlecock must be struck with the
racket so that it passes over the net and lands within the opponent's court boundaries.
Players score a point each time they win a rally.
The basic equipment includes a racket, shuttlecock, and a net. Rackets are lightweight
and made of carbon fiber or other strong materials. Shuttlecocks are made of feathers or
synthetic materials and are uniquely designed to slow down when in motion.
Each match is played to the best of three games of 21 points. A point is scored on every
serve, and the side winning a rally adds a point to its score. The side winning a game
serves first in the next game.
Players must serve diagonally and alternate sides after each point. The server must stand
inside the service box and hit the shuttle below the waist. Badminton is known for fast-
paced play and requires good reflexes, quick movement, and strong wrist action to
control the shuttle effectively.
8. Rules and Regulations
Badminton has a well-defined set of rules, maintained by the Badminton World
Federation (BWF). A standard match is played in best-of-three games, with each game
played to 21 points. Rally scoring is used, meaning a point is scored on every serve
regardless of which side served.
Each player must serve diagonally, and the shuttle must pass over the net and land within
the correct service box. If the server wins a rally, they continue to serve but switch
service courts. In doubles, players rotate positions and serve according to the team’s
score.
The shuttle must not be allowed to touch the ground within the boundaries. It must be
struck only once before crossing the net. A fault is committed if the shuttle lands outside
the boundary lines, goes under the net, or is hit into the net.
Other faults include touching the net with the body or racket, serving above the waist, or
delaying the serve. During the game, if the score reaches 20-20, the game continues until
one player or pair gains a 2-point lead. A maximum of 30 points can be scored in a game.
9. Terminology
1. **Shuttlecock**: The object hit back and forth over the net.
2. **Serve**: The act of putting the shuttlecock into play.
3. **Rally**: A sequence of back-and-forth hits between opponents.
4. **Smash**: A powerful downward shot.
5. **Drop Shot**: A soft shot that barely goes over the net.
6. **Clear**: A high shot that goes deep into the opponent's court.
7. **Fault**: A violation of the rules.
8. **Let**: A rally that is replayed.
9. **Drive**: A fast and flat shot.
10. **Net Kill**: A shot played very close to the net to end a rally.
Understanding this terminology helps players follow and execute game strategies
efficiently. Each term describes a fundamental concept or action critical to mastering the
sport of badminton.
10. Playing Techniques
Badminton involves several playing techniques that players must master to be successful.
These include proper gripping, footwork, and stroke play.
**Grip**: The way a player holds the racket affects control and power. The most
common grips are the forehand and backhand grips. Proper gripping prevents injury and
increases precision.
**Footwork**: Movement on the court should be fast and balanced. Good footwork
helps players reach the shuttle quickly and return it efficiently. Common patterns include
the chasse step and lunge.
**Strokes**: Strokes are the different ways of hitting the shuttle. They include clears,
smashes, drops, drives, and net shots. Each stroke is used strategically based on the
opponent's position.
**Positioning**: Doubles and singles games require different court positioning. Doubles
players focus on covering the full court with their partner, while singles players must
move quickly to cover more ground alone.
By practicing these techniques, players can improve their game and develop both
offensive and defensive play styles.
