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The shuttlecock in badminton is also called the birdie, and it has three components, including 16 goose feathers. Learn more about the shuttlecock with help from a badminton coach in this free video on badminton.
Badminton has the reputation as a children's backyard game, but enthusiasts hasten to point out that it moves faster than tennis and puts huge demands of speed and athleticism on its players. Instead of a ball, badminton uses a rounded cone-shaped shuttlecock, often nicknamed a "birdie" because it is traditionally made of feathers. These shuttlecocks vary in terms of material and speed, and the type players choose depends on their level and style of play.
What is a shuttlecock anyway? What does it mean? In this clip learn the basics of the game of badminton as our expert demonstrates and explains everything from the history of the game to footwork and grips. In this clip learn the shuttlecock technique.
As the goal of badminton is to hit the shuttlecock over the net, knowing how to complete this action is important to the game. Like other games, practice is an important element in learning to hit the shuttlecock and being able to position your shot.
The deep clear is one of the fundamental shots of badminton. Along with the drive, the drop shot and the overhead smash, the deep clear is a shot you should be able to hit with confidence and consistency in both singles and doubles play.
Use the underhand forehand for shots that are low and in front of you.