Although you might think of badminton as a backyard sport, perhaps as an alternative to tennis since it is played either as singles or doubles, it actually was developed in British India in the mid-18th century. Played with a racket, a shuttlecock and a net, badminton has been an Olympic sport since 1992.
Badminton Racket
Playing badminton requires a racket. The racket is used to hit the shuttlecock back and forth across the net until one team scores a point. Much like a tennis racket, the badminton racket has a stringed area that is used to hit the shuttlecock. The shaft and handle are longer than a traditional tennis racket. The overall length cannot exceed 26.77 inches and the width has to be less than 9.05 inches, according to the Badminton World Federation.
Badminton rackets are not all made the same. When choosing a racket, make sure you are comfortable with the grip and weight of the racket.
Shuttlecock
Scoring with the shuttlecock is the main objective in badminton. The shuttlecock is a cork-based piece that has 16 feathers attached to it. It flies through the air back and forth across the net as players strike it with their rackets. The shuttlecock is between 2.44 and 2.75 inches. It weighs less than .194 oz.
Much like badminton rackets, shuttlecocks are not created equal. They are graded by their speed. A fair test for the shuttlecock is the ability to hit it from baseline to baseline. To test the shuttlecock, make a full underhanded stroke from the back line. If it flies to the opposite side's back line, it will suffice.
Badminton Net
Separate your teams on opposite sides of the badminton net. Measure the court to 44 feet long and 17 feet wide for a single's match and 44 feet long and 20 feet wide for a double's match. The net is supposed to be 5.1 inches high on the edges and 5 feet high in the center. Use two poles to support the net. You can place these poles on the outside of the court line. The length of the net needs to be 2 feet 6 inches.
Badminton Shoes
Use proper shoes to play badminton. Choose shoes that complement your playing surface. Jogging shoes are not recommended because they don't provide proper grip. Quick pivot moves are required for playing badminton. If playing on grass, soft cleats would work well. If playing on a wood or concrete surface, a thick rubber sole that has adequate grip is advisable.
Badminton Attire
Wear clothing that won't hinder your play. Proper clothing will enhance your ability to play the game of badminton. A light moisture-wicking shirt and shorts will allow you to feel light as you move around. A head band and wrist band give you the comfort of not having sweat rolling into your eyes and hands.
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