Badminton is a fast-paced game in which players use rackets to hit a shuttlecock back and forth across a net. When instructing beginners, you must stress proper racket grip and handling. It is important for beginners to learn the fundamental skills, to develop proper form and to avoid bad habits. With some simple techniques and exercises, you can get a beginner off to the right start.
Step 1
Demonstrate proper forehand grip to your group. With the racket face perpendicular to the ground, grasp the handle as if you are shaking hands with it. Keep the bottom of your hand even with the bottom of the handle, and leave a small amount of space between your fingers. Make sure that each student carefully observes your grip, and that they see the V shape between your thumb and index finger.
Step 2
Challenge your students to try the forehand grip on their racket, using the method you modeled. Check each player individually and correct grip errors. Specifically check to make sure they are not holding the racket with the wrist turned to the right or left. Offer positive reinforcement when students demonstrate the correct grip.
Step 3
Instruct the group to turn the rackets face up and parallel to the ground without releasing the grip. Right-handed players will rotate their wrist to the right, and left-handed players will rotate their wrist to the left. Allow them to practice using the forehand grip by bouncing a shuttlecock with the racket. As they practice, explain that they should use the forehand grip when hitting birdies that are either out in front, around their head, or on their playing-hand side.
Step 4
Show the students the backhand grip. Let everyone see how the grip is identical to the forehand grip except your thumb extends against the handle to support the racket.
Step 5
Ask the group to use the backhand grip by first starting with the forehand grip method you taught them. Then, instruct them to extend their thumb against the handle to achieve the backhand grip.
Step 6
Inspect students' grip carefully, and make sure they are executing the backhand grip correctly. Praise students when they have it right.
Step 7
Tell the class to turn the racket face down without releasing their grip. Players will turn their wrist the opposite direction than they did to turn the racket face up. Give them the opportunity to practice bouncing the shuttlecock. While they practice, explain that they should use the backhand grip when hitting birdies on the side opposite their playing arm.
Step 8
Advise the group that in a badminton match, they will have to change grips frequently. Stress the importance of using a relaxed hold on the racket to enable them to make quick adjustments. Tell them to tighten their grip when they make contact with the shuttlecock.
Tips and Warnings
- If students struggle with racket control while hitting, suggest they shorten their grip by holding the racket closer to the shaft.
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