How to Hold a Badminton Racket?
From ages 14 to 18, I spent most of my evenings playing badminton. Over 5 years of constant badminton practice can make you a pro at it, right? Well, that wasn’t the case for me. Partly because I did it for fun, and partly because of some basic lacunas that I came to know about as I grew older.
So, while not professional, I think my journey as an amateur in the game we all love can help you do wonders. This story is about a minute detail that made me a better player and I think any beginner should know about this: How to Hold a Badminton Racket?
Many amateur badminton players don't give much thought to how they hold their racket. However, striking precise strokes with force requires the right grip. With the shuttlecock hitting over 200 mph, you must have total control of your racket. Your grip method is the first step in this.
I'll go through the basics of proper badminton racket grip in this article. I'll go over the various grips used for serves, backhand shots, and forehand shots. I'll also go over how to position your racket correctly and where your hands should be on the handle. You will have more control over your shots if you can grasp these fundamentals.
You'll be able to perform drop shots, clears, overhead smashes, and more with ease if you have the proper grip. Are you ready to improve your badminton skills? Let's begin by learning the correct grip for a badminton racket.
Types of Grips in Badminton
There are three main types of badminton grips:
Forehand Grip
For overhead strokes that land on your forehand side of the body, you employ the forehand grip. Use your dominant hand to grasp the racket handle in the correct forehand grip position. With your thumb and index finger on opposing sides of the handle, make a "V" with your hand.
Forehand Grip Front View
The handle ought to cross your palm diagonally. Keep your grasp solid but not too tight, and your wrist relaxed. With this grip, you can make clean racket swings on overhead forehand strokes.
Backhand Grip
Backhand grip is crucial for overhead shots on the backhand side. You must slightly rotate your hand clockwise on the handle in order to take overhead shots with your backhand side. Instead of pointing at an angle, your thumb should now be pointing down the handle. Maintaining the handle in your palm, make any necessary adjustments to your "V" shape. It is simpler to stroke the racket on the backhand side of your body with this backhand grip.
Service Grip
When serving, use the service grip. Place your thumb and index finger together on the back of the racket handle. Let the rest of your fingers wrap around the front. The service grip enables effective underhand serves.
Now that you are aware of the three primary badminton grips, try out each one to see which one feels most comfortable.
Hand and Racket Positioning
Another essential component of a good badminton grip technique is the placement of the hands and racket. Follow the following steps for the perfect hand and racket positioning:
Rest the racket handle in your palm, not along your fingers. This prevents excessive squeezing that can tighten your grip. Keep a firm but relaxed hold.
Extend your index finger down the "throat" of the racket. Having your finger in this position adds extra support and control.
Keep your other fingers wrapped comfortably around the handle. Don't squeeze too tightly. Maintain a flexible grip.
Hold the racket higher up the handle for powerful overhead shots. This gives you leverage for strength.
Choke down closer to the racket head for delicate touch shots. This provides more finesse.
Keep the racket perpendicular to the ground. Don't angle the head. This presents the full face surface to hit the shuttlecock cleanly.
Point the racket face slightly upward rather than allowing it to droop. This ready position gets the racket in position faster to hit overhead shots.
With proper hand and racket positioning, you can execute a wide range of badminton strokes.
Shuttling Off
Having the proper grip technique is crucial for taking your badminton skills to the next level. With the right grip, you'll have better control and be able to hit more accurate shots with power. Remember these key pointers:
Use the forehand, backhand, and service grips for different shots. Position your hand in the appropriate "V" shape or thumb/finger placement.
Rest the handle in your palm and extend your index finger for support. Keep a firm but relaxed hold.
Choke up or down as needed. Hold the racket perpendicular to the ground.
To develop muscle memory and discover your ideal grip, you must practice. Practice self-compassion while you strive for consistency. Once you've mastered the basics of grip, you'll be able to hit clears, drop shots, and jump smashes with accuracy.
