Serving Directions for Badminton

A racket, shuttlecock and net are essential items in playing badminton.

Badminton is a racket sport played by either two or four players on a specific court using rackets, a net and a shuttlecock. Though historically recognized as originating in either ancient Greece, China or India, the Encyclopaedia Britannica states that the game is named for "Badminton, the country estate of the dukes of Beaufort in Gloucestershire, England, where it was first played in about 1873." There are four basic types of serves, with variations, you must master to become proficient and then successful badminton.

Things You'll Need

• Badminton racket
• Shuttlecocks
• Badminton net
• Badminton court or marked playing area

Instructions

1. 

   The shuttlecock was traditionally made of cork and goose feathers.

   Hit the shuttlecock just hard enough to send it over the net so it lands close to the net on the opposition's side. This is the most basic serve, the low serve, which makes it difficult for your opponent to reach the shuttlecock in time to make a strong return.

2. 

   The badminton racket is specifically has long handle and relatively small head.

   Strike your shuttlecock harder than the low serve, sending it over the net faster and higher. This is called the high serve, and it can be harder or easier for your opponent to return, depending on his location in relation to you and to the net.

3. 

   The high serve is one of the basic service types in badminton.

   Serve with a flick of your wrist rather than using a full-arm motion as in the high and low serves. According to the Badminton Information website, this is called the flick serve. Use this serve to trick your opponent as to where you intend to your shuttlecock to go.

4. 

   Badminton is often played on grass, particularly when the game is a social one.

   Hit your shuttlecock hard and flat so that it passes just over the net and heads toward the back of the court on the opponent's side. This is the most challenging of the four basic serves and to return. It is called the drive serve

5. 

   Badminton is a very accessible game that can be be played by just about anyone.

   Learn advanced service techniques only once you are capable of using the four basic service types consistently and with confidence.

6. 

7. 

Tips & Warnings

• Choose between either a backhand or forehand flick when using the flick serve. In badminton, as in tennis, perform most serve types with a forehand motion. Equal competence at both backhand and forehand serves is required if you are to master badminton.

• Focus on mastering each type before concentrating on being competitive.

• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing when playing badminton.

• Badminton can be a strenuous activity. If you have a history of health conditions, seek medical advice before playing.

• Stretch before playing. This will reduce the likelihood of injury.

References

• The Badminton Bible: The Four Types of Badminton Serve
• Badminton Information: Badminton Serve
• Sports Know How: How to Play Badminton
• Encyclopaedia Britannica: Badminton

Resources

• Badminton TV