BADMINTON BASICS
Badminton is a racket sport played on a rectangular court that is divided by a net. It can be played by either two opposing players (singles) or two opposing pairs (doubles) who take positions on opposite halves of a court. Players score points by striking a shuttlecock with their racket so that it passes over the net and lands in their opponents’ half of the court or when the opponents make an error and cannot play back the shuttlecock back across the net.
What equipment is needed?
Clothing
Badminton requires a lot of movement and quick changes in direction. Therefore, it is important that players wear the appropriate clothes to exercise in.
Footwear
A comfortable pair of socks and badminton shoes are important. Players are recommended to select shoes that are designed for the indoor badminton courts. Depending on the courts that you play on, you can opt to wear volleyball shoes (as these are similar to badminton shoes in stability and wear).
Rackets
Buying a racket can depend on the player. Players will want to look for rackets that best suit them. This can vary from player to player. USAB suggest visiting a local pro-shop that has a good selection of badminton rackets. Try as many rackets as possible to see if they feel right before you make your purchase. Please also keep in mind that badminton rackets vary from quality and price range, so please select carefully.
Shuttles
Shuttles come in different forms: plastic or feathered. For beginners who may also be cost-conscious, plastic shuttles will be ideal – as they are durable and cheaper. Depending on the manufacturer, the birds can come in various speeds. In regard to feathered birds, these are usually used at badminton clubs and during badminton competitions. Again, depending on the manufacturer, the feathered shuttles’ cost, durability, and flight quality may vary.
Where to play?
Please see our member clubs for where you can play locally: CLICK HERE
What are the rules?
USAB follows BWF Statutes for all rules of game and technical regulations.