A Complete Guide on How to Play Badminton for Beginners
When I first stepped onto the badminton court as a beginner, I remember feeling completely overwhelmed by how deceptively simple the game appeared. Watching professional players like Chiara Permentilla execute 20 powerful attacks in a single match made me realize there's an entire world of technique and strategy beneath those effortless-looking smashes. That's why I believe every newcomer should approach badminton not just as a casual backyard game, but as a sport requiring proper foundation - much like how professional teams like Nxled build their gameplay, even when facing challenges like their recent seven-match losing streak.
The very first thing I always tell beginners is to master the grip before even thinking about fancy shots. I made the mistake of using a tennis-like grip when I started, and it took me months to correct that fundamental error. The correct forehand grip should feel like you're shaking hands with the racket, while the backhand grip requires your thumb to support the wider surface of the handle. What surprised me most when I began was how much footwork matters - I'd estimate about 60% of your game quality depends on how efficiently you move around the court. Professional players like rookie Lucille Almonte, who recently scored 13 points in her breakout game, demonstrate how crucial positioning is for executing successful shots. I recommend practicing the "ready position" - knees slightly bent, weight on your toes, racket up - until it becomes second nature.
Speaking of shots, the clear shot is what I consider the bread and butter for beginners. It's not as glamorous as Permentilla's 20 attacks, but it builds the foundation for everything else. I spent my first three months mainly practicing high, deep clears to the back of the court. The drop shot comes next - that delicate touch that barely clears the net. What most beginners don't realize is that the smash, while impressive, should actually be one of the last shots you master. Timing is everything, and without proper technique, you're more likely to injure your shoulder than score points. I remember counting my successful smashes when I started - maybe 2 out of 10 attempts actually went where I wanted them to go.
The doubles format is where many beginners feel particularly lost, and watching teams like Nxled struggle with coordination despite individual brilliance really highlights how teamwork makes the difference. I always advise new players to focus on maintaining formation - either side-by-side or front-and-back - rather than both chasing the same shuttle. Communication is non-negotiable; my partner and I developed simple calls like "mine" or "yours" that prevented countless collisions. Service might seem straightforward, but I've seen more points lost on service errors than any other shot. For beginners, I recommend the low serve that just clears the net - it's safer and builds consistency.
What I love about badminton is how quickly you can see improvement if you practice systematically. Unlike some sports that require years to show progress, I noticed significant advancement in my game within just two months of proper training. That said, equipment does matter more than many beginners assume. When I finally upgraded from a $25 racket to a mid-range $85 model, my control improved by what felt like 40% immediately. The right shoes are equally important - regular running shoes just don't provide the lateral support needed for those quick directional changes.
Looking at professional matches, even when teams like Nxled drop seven consecutive games, there are always learning moments in every rally. Permentilla's near double-double performance shows how consistency matters even in losing efforts, while Almonte's breakout game demonstrates that every player has their moment to shine. For beginners, the key is embracing the learning process - celebrate the small victories like finally mastering that backhand clear or winning your first competitive rally. The beauty of badminton lies in its accessibility - anyone can start - combined with the endless depth that keeps players like me coming back to the court year after year, always discovering new aspects to improve and enjoy.