Have you ever wondered why some badminton players seem to win rallies effortlessly while others often tire and lose quickly? The secret lies in the variety of badminton shots they master.
This article will cover the various badminton strokes for beginners in detail, from basic techniques to on-court strategies. With this guide, you can practice more effectively, play with more confidence, and make your game more exciting.
Why is it important to master various badminton strokes?
Mastering the various badminton strokes is crucial because each stroke has a different strategic function. By understanding these stroke techniques, you can read your opponent's playing patterns and adjust your timing and direction to be more effective.
Additionally, mastering your strokes helps you build consistency in your game and boost your confidence. Beginners often make mistakes because they don't understand the proper technique, resulting in weak strokes or easily returned shuttlecocks.
By understanding the basics of badminton strokes, you can prevent injuries caused by incorrect technique. This solid foundation also provides a foundation for learning more advanced stroke variations or complex match strategies.
Also read: History of Badminton in Indonesia: Why is it so popular worldwide?
Types of Badminton Shots
1. Service (Starting Shot)
A serve is a shot used to start a rally. The feet should be slightly apart, the body weight balanced, and the racket grip should be comfortable to ensure the shuttlecock lands in the opponent's court.
For beginners, there are two types of serves: forehand for long range and backhand for short range. A good serve gives you an advantage from the start of the rally and sets the pace of the game.
In addition to basic technique , you also need to control the direction and height of the shuttlecock when serving. Don't just swing it, as a weak shot can easily be returned by your opponent.
2. Clear/Lob (Long Shot to the Back of the Court)
A clear shot is aimed far back at the opponent's court. The body is upright, the racket is held high, and the swing must be precise to ensure the shuttlecock reaches the back area accurately.
The function of a clear isn't just to buy time, but also to force the opponent to move back and open up space for the next attack. For beginners, the key to an effective clear is controlling the power and timing of the punch.
Avoid hitting too hard, as it could send the shuttlecock flying out of bounds. Avoid hitting too lightly, as it'll be easy for your opponent to return the ball.
3. Drop (Strike Near the Opponent's Net)
A drop shot is a soft shot fired close to the net to deceive the opponent. The racket grip should be relaxed, and the force of the shot just right to ensure the shuttlecock lands close to the net.
The drop shot strategy is effective when the opponent is behind, requiring them to advance quickly and create space behind them. A key tip for beginners is to focus on racket control and shuttlecock direction, not speed.
Pay attention to timing so the shuttlecock lands directly in front of your opponent. With consistent practice, the drop shot can become a powerful tool for disrupting an opponent's rally.
Also read: Official BWF Standard Badminton Court Guide
4. Smash (Hard and Attacking)
A smash is a high-speed, attacking shot that can instantly win a point. The body is slightly bent, the racket is swung overhead, and the timing of the shot must be precise.
Smashes are used to pressure opponents and exploit their weak positions on the court. Beginners often make the mistake of bending their wrists too much or positioning their feet incorrectly.
Focusing on proper swing and weight distribution will improve the power and accuracy of your smash. Repeated practice will make the smash a key weapon in your game.
5. Drive (Flat and Fast Stroke)
A drive is a fast, flat shot used for rallies near the net or midcourt. The swing must be parallel to the shuttlecock and timed precisely to make it difficult for your opponent to return.
Drive shots are effective for maintaining a fast rally tempo and forcing your opponent to rush shots. Tips for beginners include focusing on body position and the direction of your racket swing.
Avoid hitting from an unbalanced position, as this can compromise speed and precision. Consistent drive practice helps improve reflexes and shuttlecock control.
6. Net Shot (Blow Near the Net)
A net shot is performed close to the net with the goal of controlling the shuttlecock in front of the opponent. The hand position is soft, the racket is slightly raised, and the shot must be precise so the shuttlecock lands close to the opponent's net.
Net shots are effective for positioning your opponent and opening up opportunities for subsequent attacks. Beginners should focus on gentle racket contact and precise direction.
Avoid hitting the shuttlecock too hard, as it could bounce off the court. Regular practice helps improve shuttlecock control and net shot consistency.
Proper Hitting Techniques for Beginners
Playing badminton is more exciting if you master the various badminton strokes with the right techniques, namely as follows:
- Foot and Body Position : The feet and body determine the stability and power of the shot, so balance your weight, spread your legs, and flex your knees. For example, when smashing with a right hand, place your right foot in front to make the shot more effective and direct the shuttlecock in the right direction.
- Effective Racket Swing : The racket swing should be tailored to the shot for power and precision, such as overhead smashes and flatter drives. Avoid swinging too fast or too slow; focus on smooth movements and repeated practice for consistency.
- Controlling Shuttlecock Speed and Accuracy : Shuttlecock control is crucial for shot accuracy; adjust power, timing, and direction. Speed variations, such as fast clears and slow drop shots, and target practice improve consistency and rally dominance.
Mastering the various badminton strokes will make each shot more accurate and the game more enjoyable. Regular practice will help you refine your technique and increase your chances of winning rallies. So, keep honing your strokes to gain confidence on the court!
Improve Your Badminton Skills with SVRG Equipment
Mastering the various badminton strokes is a crucial foundation for beginners to play more effectively, consistently, and confidently. With regular practice and a proper understanding of technique, every shot you make will be more precise and profitable.
In addition, the use of equipment from SVRG such as badminton nets , grip tape , and kinesio tape , helps improve shot accuracy, reduces the risk of injury, and makes the game more enjoyable.
Don't wait any longer, explore SVRG's collection of quality sports equipment to support your skills and performance. With the right equipment, badminton training and play will be more fun, safe, and professional.
