How to Play Singles in Badminton

In singles, each player must cover the entire court. Try to make your opponent run all over the court until he or she is out of position.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Badminton Set

1. Serve deep when playing singles because the court is 2 1/2 feet longer.

2. Use mostly high, deep serves, aimed to drop down just before the back line - this forces your opponent to return to the center of your court.

3. Backpedal to prepare for your service return. Expect the serve to come high and deep.

4. Return serves to where your opponent is not - if he or she moves forward after his or her serve, hit deep. If your opponent backs up after the serve, hit short. Watch your opponent to learn his or her tendencies.

5. Make your opponent run. Hit the shuttle so as to get him or her out of position.

6. Aim your shots for the four corners. In singles play, try to avoid hitting to the middle.

7. Hit long, then short. Hit right, then left. Try to make each shot the opposite of the previous one, at least until your opponent expects this.

Tips & Warnings

• If you see your opponent preparing to receive a high, deep serve, hit a short, low serve.

• Concentrate on gaining advantage from your service by hitting high and deep and to the corners. You can only score on your service.

• Practice backpedaling. If you jog, include some backpedaling into your jogging routine.