Badminton is a fast-paced sport that requires you to be agile, alert, and quick. When playing badminton, one of the most important skills to master is the ability to return a high serve. This can be especially challenging because the shuttlecock can be difficult to hit. In this article, we will discuss some tips for how to return a high serve in badminton.
Preparation for a High Serve
The first step in preparing to return a high serve is to be in the right position. You should stand close to and slightly behind the short service line, with your feet shoulder-width apart. Your non-racket foot should be slightly ahead of your racket foot to give you more balance.
Next, you should hold your racket in an open stance, with your racket arm slightly bent and your non-racket arm extended towards the shuttlecock. Your grip should be relaxed and you should be ready to move in any direction.
Finally, focus on the opponent’s racket and the shuttlecock to anticipate the serve. You should also be aware of your opponent’s body language and the type of serve they are likely to use.
Technique for Returning a High Serve
When your opponent serves, you should move quickly towards the shuttlecock. As you move, your racket should be in an open stance and your arms should be bent. When you reach the shuttlecock, you should hit it with a flat trajectory. This will give you the most control and will help you return the shuttlecock to your opponent.
It is important to make contact with the shuttlecock as close to the center of the racket as possible. This will help you to keep the shuttlecock in a straight line and will give you more control.
It is also important to keep your wrist loose and flexible. This will help you to be more accurate when returning a high serve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When returning a high serve, it is important to avoid making common mistakes. One mistake to avoid is hitting the shuttlecock too hard. Hitting the shuttlecock too hard can cause it to go out of bounds or can cause it to be difficult for your opponent to return.
Another mistake to avoid is hitting the shuttlecock too high. This can cause the shuttlecock to sail out of bounds or can cause it to drop too quickly.
Finally, it is important to avoid hitting the shuttlecock too low. Hitting the shuttlecock too low can make it difficult for your opponent to return.
Conclusion
Returning a high serve in badminton can be a difficult task, but with the right preparation and technique, you can become a master of the skill. It is important to be in the right position, to anticipate the serve, to hit the shuttlecock with a flat trajectory, to make contact with the center of the racket, and to keep your wrist loose and flexible. It is also important to avoid making common mistakes such as hitting the shuttlecock too hard, too high, or too low. With practice and dedication, you will be able to master the skill of returning a high serve in badminton.