Badminton can be as addictive as any other sport. While it may seem like a simple game, it still has a way to go. So, how is badminton played?

The professional badminton games are fast-paced that can attract anyone remotely interested in the sport. But to play it, you need to know all about it. What is badminton played with? Where is it played? What are the rules? Many questions can storm up in your mind.

Badminton is played on an indoor court. It can be played in singles or doubles. Players require a badminton racket and a shuttlecock to play badminton. Besides that, badminton consists of many rules that restrict the players to fair gameplay and allow them to secure points and win the game.

There are several aspects to playing badminton. A match of badminton is usually played in a set of three. The first player to score 21 points wins the game. The side to score more points in two sets wins the match. We discuss several more aspects of the sport in this guide.

As badminton enthusiasts, we have played it for over a decade and know all about it. So, we have put together this guide to help you understand all the aspects of badminton so you can start your journey.

How to Play Badminton?

Badminton is a sport that people of all ages and abilities can enjoy. It is relatively easy to learn and can be played competitively or recreationally. The basic rules of badminton are simple: two players on either side of a net hit a shuttlecock back and forth using only their racquets. The game can be played singles (one player per side) or doubles (two players per side).

Let’s look at various aspects of the game individually.

What Equipment do You Need to Play Badminton

Rackets

Badminton rackets are an important piece of equipment for any player. They come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, and each has its benefits and drawbacks. Choosing the right racket can be tricky, but getting it right to play your best is essential.

Types of Rackets

There are two main types of badminton racket: weight-forward and balance-point. Weight-forward rackets are heavier at the head, which makes them more powerful. Balance-point rackets are evenly balanced, making them more maneuverable. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the right one for your playing style is essential.

The material of your racket is also essential. Aluminum and graphite are the most popular materials, but steel and titanium are also used. Each material has its benefits and drawbacks, so choosing the right one is vital.

Aluminum rackets are lightweight and affordable, but they’re not as durable as other materials. Graphite rackets are more expensive, but they’re lighter and more durable. Steel and titanium rackets are the heaviest and most durable, but they’re also the most expensive.

Choosing the right badminton racket is an important decision for any player. There are various factors to consider, including weight, balance, material, and price. It’s essential to take your time and choose the racket that’s right for you. You can take your game to the next level with the right racket.

Strings

Badminton racket strings are one of the most important components of your equipment. The type of string you use can significantly impact your game. Many different types of strings are available on the market, made from other materials and thicknesses. You need to choose the correct string for your playing style and preferences.

The most common type of badminton racket string is made from synthetic gut. This material is very strong and durable, ideal for beginners or casual players. Synthetic gut strings also have good elasticity, which gives you more power and control over your shots.

If you’re looking for more power and spin, you might want to try a multifilament string. These strings are made from multiple strands of material, making them more flexible and responsive. Multifilament strings are an excellent choice for intermediate or advanced players who want to take their game to the next level.

You can’t go wrong with a titanium string for the ultimate in power and spin. Titanium strings are made from a single strand of titanium wire, making them extremely strong and durable. However, they are very expensive, making them unpopular among badminton players.

Sweetspot

The sweet spot on a badminton racket is where the shuttlecock contacts the racket’s face. It is generally considered the center of the racket face, although there can be variations depending on the specific racket and playing style. The sweet spot is crucial because it is the area of the racket face that provides the most power and control. Shots that are hit outside of the sweet spot can often be less powerful and more difficult to control.

There are a few different ways to find the sweet spot on your racket. One way is to simply hold the racket in your hand and feel for the spot where the shuttlecock contacts the racket’s face. Another way is to mark the center of the racket face with a pencil or pen and then hit some shots to see where the shuttlecock makes contact. Once you have found the sweet spot, you can mark it with a piece of tape or a sticker to easily find it again.

The sweet spot on a racket can vary depending on the racket and playing style. Generally, however, the sweet spot is about two to three inches in diameter. If you are having trouble finding the sweet spot on your racket or your shots are not as powerful or accurate as you would like them to be, it is often helpful to experiment with different grip sizes and racket angles to find a sweet spot that works best for you.

The Badminton Birdie

Badminton shuttlecocks, also known as birdies, are specially designed for the sport of badminton. They are typically made with a natural cork base and 16 overlapping feathers fixed to the top. The feathers must be exactly the same length and arranged symmetrically. Shuttlecocks can be made with synthetic materials, but these are not as common.

When choosing a badminton shuttlecock, it is important to consider the type of feathers used. Goose or duck feathers are the most popular choice because they provide good durability and flight characteristics. However, synthetic shuttlecocks are becoming more popular because they are more consistent in quality and performance. Shuttlecocks typically have a lifespan of about 20 hours of play.

Shuttlecock Speeds

Badminton shuttlecocks come at different speeds because they are designed for different purposes. The different speeds allow players to choose the right shuttlecock for their game and playing style.

The speed of a badminton shuttlecock is measured by its flight characteristics, determined by its weight, shape, and material. A faster shuttlecock will have less drag and fly further and straighter than a slower one.

The different speeds of badminton shuttlecocks are:

• 75: This is the slowest speed and is usually used for beginners or practice games. The shuttlecock will not travel as far and will be easier to control.
• 76: This speed is used for intermediate players. The shuttlecock will travel further than the 75 speed but will still be relatively easy to control.
• 77: This is the standard speed for competitive games. The shuttlecock will travel far and straight, making it more difficult to control.
• 78: This is a faster speed used by advanced players. The shuttlecock will travel even further and straighter, making it difficult to control.
• 79: This is the fastest speed and is only used by professional players. The shuttlecock will travel exceptionally far and straight, making it nearly impossible to control.

Typically, the shuttlecock speeds also differ according to the climate of a particular area. Hot and humid conditions require lower speeds as the birdie travels faster. As the temperature drops, higher speeds of shuttlecocks are preferred as the lower the temperature, the faster the shuttlecock travels.

Badminton Court Dimensions

Badminton singles court dimensions are different from those of a doubles court. The main difference is that the width of the singles court is narrower than that of the doubles court.

The official dimensions of a badminton singles court are as follows: length - 13.4 meters (44 feet), width - 5.18 meters (17 feet), the height of the net is 5 feet in the center, and 5.1 feet at the sides. These dimensions are for both men’s and women’s singles matches. On the other hand, the width of the doubles court is three feet wider than the singles court, measuring 20 feet.

The size of the playing area in a badminton singles match is smaller than in a doubles match, which makes the game more fast-paced and intense. Because of this, badminton singles players need to have good speed, agility, and stamina. They also need to be able to make quick decisions and shots.

What are Badminton Rules

Perhaps, the most critical part of any sport is its rules. No one can win a game without sport. So let’s discuss the rules of badminton.

Serve

Badminton serve is one of the most important strokes in the game. A good serve can help you win points and put your opponent on the defensive. But what are the rules of serving in badminton?

• You must serve from behind the baseline. This means that you cannot step over the line when you serve. If you do, it will be a fault, and your opponent will receive a point.
• You must hit the shuttlecock over the net and into your opponent’s court. You cannot hit it into the net or out of bounds. If you do, it will be a fault, and your opponent will receive a point.
• You must hit the shuttlecock with your racket. You cannot use your body or any other part of your equipment to hit it. If you do, it will be a fault, and your opponent will receive a point.
• Keep your feet behind the baseline until the shuttlecock has been hit. This means that you cannot step over the line when you serve. If you do, it will be a fault, and your opponent will receive a point.
• Wait for your opponent to be ready before you serve. If you serve before they are ready, it will be a fault, and they will receive a point.

Scoring

In badminton, scoring is achieved by either hitting the shuttlecock over the net so that it lands in your opponent’s half of the court or by forcing your opponent to hit the shuttlecock out of bounds.

A rally ends when one player cannot return the shuttlecock to the other player’s half of the court. If the serving player wins a rally, they score a point and serve again from the same side of the court.

If the receiving player wins a rally, they score a point and become the new serving player. The first player to reach 21 points wins the game. However, if both players reach 20 points each, the game continues until one player has a two-point lead (known as ‘deuce’).

The format for scoring in badminton can vary depending on whether you are playing singles or doubles. In singles, only one player serves at a time, alternating between each rally. There are two players per team in doubles, and each team has one service box. Both doubles team members take turns to serve from their service box.

Fault

Serving Fault

A serving fault occurs when the player fails to complete a legal serve. There are several reasons why a player might commit a serving fault, but the most common is simply hitting the shuttlecock into the net. Other serving faults include sending the shuttlecock out of bounds or failing to hit it over the net.

Rally Fault

In badminton, a rally fault occurs when the shuttlecock hits the ground before the player’s racket strikes it. Rally faults can be divided into two main categories: ‘not in play’ and ‘in play. Not in play rally faults include serving faults, service-line faults, and net-line faults.

In-play rally faults include hitting the shuttlecock twice, hitting the shuttle after it has passed over the net, or failing to hit it before it passes over the back boundary line. Each of these faults results in a point for the opposing player. As a result, players must avoid making rally faults if they want to win the game.

Foot Fault

According to the Badminton World Federation, a foot fault is committed when “the player’s feet touch the ground outside the boundaries of the court before serving.” This rule prevents players from gaining an unfair advantage by moving too close to the net.

While foot faults may seem like a minor infraction, they can significantly impact the game. For one thing, foot faults can disrupt an opponent’s rhythm and give them an advantage. Additionally, if a player is consistently foot faulting, it can result in them receiving a warning from the referee. In extreme cases, a player may even be disqualified from the match.

Singles vs. Doubles

There are two main ways to play when playing badminton - singles, and doubles. Both have their own set of rules and regulations and differentiating factors. Here’s a quick overview of the key differences between singles and doubles in badminton:

Singles

There is only one player on each side of the net in singles play.

The court size is smaller than in doubles play, measuring just 13.4 x 6.1 meters.

Singles’ players are not allowed to step into the opponent’s court area while playing. If they do so, they will lose the point.

Doubles

As the name suggests, doubles play involves two players on each net side.

The court size is larger in doubles play, measuring 14 x 7 meters.

In doubles play, the serving player must serve diagonally across the court to their opponents. For example, if Player A is serving from the right service box, they must serve to Player B in the left service box.

Whether you’re just starting or are a seasoned player, it’s important to understand the basics of both types of play to make the most of your game.

What to Wear for Playing Badminton

As badminton is a highly active sport, it requires the players to wear specific attire that helps them perform better and stay in their best shape. Below, we look at the items a badminton player can wear.

Shirts

Badminton shirts are designed to keep you cool and comfortable on the court. They are usually lightweight, breathable fabric that helps wick away sweat. Many badminton shirts also have built-in UV protection to help shield you from the sun’s harmful rays.

Some things to look for when choosing a badminton shirt include:

The Right Fit

Badminton shirts should be snug but not too tight. Look for one that allows you to move freely and doesn’t restrict your range of motion.

Breathability

A good badminton shirt will help keep you cool and dry by allowing your skin to breathe. Look for a shirt made of light, breathable fabric such as mesh or microfiber.

UV protection

If you are playing outdoors, look for a shirt with built-in UV protection to help shield you from the sun’s harmful rays.

Style

Badminton shirts come in various styles, so you can choose one that fits your personal taste. Some common styles include sleeveless, tank top, and short-sleeve.

When shopping for a badminton shirt, it’s important to find one that fits well and is made of breathable, lightweight fabric. A shirt with built-in UV protection is also a good choice if you’ll be playing outdoors. And finally, don’t forget to consider style - there are many different designs and colors to choose from, so you can find a shirt that expresses your personality.

Shorts

Badminton shorts are an essential part of a player’s equipment. They are specifically designed to allow maximum movement and flexibility during gameplay. There are many different brands and styles of badminton shorts available on the market, so it is important to choose a comfortable pair that provides the right support. Below, we look at some things to consider when selecting badminton shorts.

First and foremost, comfort should be your number one priority when choosing badminton shorts. The last thing you want is to be distracted by an uncomfortable pair of shorts during a match. Look for a pair made from breathable material such as mesh or polyester. These fabrics will help to keep you cool and comfortable during long rallies.

It is also essential to choose a pair of shorts that provides adequate support. Badminton is a high-impact sport, and your shorts should be able to provide some level of protection from constant movement. Look for shorts with an elasticated waistband or drawstring closure. These features will help keep your shorts in place and prevent them from riding up during gameplay.

Finally, take into consideration the cut of the badminton shorts. There are three main cuts:

• Regular
• Mid-thigh
• Below the knee

Each type of cut has its advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose the one that best suits your playing style.

Women Shirts

Badminton is a sport that many people enjoy all over the world. It is a relatively simple game to learn and can be played by people of all ages. Badminton shirts for women are available in many different styles, colors, and sizes.

When choosing a badminton shirt for women, it is essential to consider what type of material the shirt is made from. The most popular type of material for badminton shirts for women is polyester. This material is lightweight and breathable, ideal for playing badminton in hot weather conditions. Cotton is another popular choice for badminton shirts for women. Cotton is a heavier-weight material, making it more suitable for cooler weather conditions.

Besides that, you should consider the same things we discussed for considering men’s shirts:

• Right fit
• Breathability
• UV protection
• Style

Skirts

Badminton is a sport that requires a lot of movement and agility. Because of this, badminton players need to wear clothing that won’t restrict their movement and will help them stay cool during intense matches. Badminton skirts are the perfect option for female players as they allow a full range of motion while also keeping the player cool.

Badminton skirts come in various styles and designs, so there is surely something to meet your specific needs. Some skirts even have built-in shorts for additional coverage and support. When choosing a badminton skirt, selecting one made from a breathable fabric such as polyester or microfiber is important. This will help you stay cool and comfortable during your match.

Socks

Badminton socks are an important part of any player’s kit. They not only provide comfort and support but also help to protect your feet from the constant impact of the shuttlecock.

There are many different brands and types of badminton socks on the market, so it’s important to choose a pair that will suit your needs. Here are a few things to consider when purchasing badminton socks:

Material

Badminton socks are usually made from synthetic materials such as polyester or nylon. These materials are lightweight and breathable, making them ideal for wearing during strenuous activity.

Size

Badminton socks come in a range of sizes to suit different foot sizes. It’s important to choose a size that will provide a comfortable fit without being too tight or loose.

Support

Some badminton socks also offer support for the ankle and arch of the foot. This can help to prevent injuries such as rolled ankles during gameplay.

Shoes

Badminton shoes are designed to provide the best possible grip on the court while also allowing for quick and agile movement. They typically have a rubber sole with spikes or raised patterns that help grip the floor, and they may also have extra support around the ankle to prevent injuries. The right pair of badminton shoes can make a big difference in your game, so it’s important to choose a pair that fits your specific needs.

When shopping for badminton shoes, it’s essential to consider the type of surface you’ll be playing on most often. If you mostly play indoors, you’ll want a shoe with a good grip and good cushioning to protect your feet from the hard surface. If you’re an outdoor player, you’ll need a shoe with good traction to keep you from slipping and also one that’s durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of playing on concrete or asphalt.

It’s also essential to choose a shoe that fits your foot well. Badminton shoes tend to run a bit small, so it’s often best to order a half size up from your regular shoe size. And be sure to try them on with the socks you’ll be wearing while playing - you don’t want your shoes to be too tight and cause blisters.

Don’t just pick out any shoes. Check out the best badminton shoes to ensure your investment goes in the right place.