Badminton is a thrilling sport that requires both physical and mental skill. It combines the speed of tennis with the agility of table tennis and is one of the most popular racket sports. In badminton, the serve is an important part of the game as it is the opening shot of the rally. A good serve can set the tone of the game and put your opponent under pressure. Knowing how to serve properly is essential for playing a successful game.
What Is a Serve in Badminton?
A serve in badminton is the opening shot of the rally. The serve must be hit over the net and land in the opponent’s court. A player must serve the shuttlecock with an underarm motion and the shuttlecock must be hit below waist height.
Types of Serves in Badminton
There are three main types of serves in badminton: the high serve, the low serve, and the flick serve.
High Serve
The high serve is a versatile serve that can be used to start the rally or to put your opponent under pressure. The high serve should be hit with a lot of power and should be angled towards the opponent’s body.
Low Serve
The low serve is used to control the rally and to set up your next shot. The shuttlecock should be hit low and fast and should land close to the net. This serve is often used when your opponent is far away from the net and is difficult to reach.
Flick Serve
The flick serve is used to surprise your opponent by changing the direction of the rally. It is hit with a lot of spin and is aimed at the opponent’s backhand. This serve is often used when your opponent is expecting a low serve and is positioned near the net.
Tips for Serving in Badminton
Now that you know the different types of serves in badminton, here are some tips to help you serve successfully:
1. Hold the racket correctly.
Holding the racket correctly is important for getting the right amount of power and spin on your serve. Make sure that your grip is comfortable and secure and that your wrist is loose.
2. Make sure your body is in the correct position.
The correct body position is essential for a successful serve. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your weight balanced on both feet. Your arm should be extended and your elbow should be slightly bent.
3. Use your wrist to generate spin.
Generating spin on the serve is important for making it difficult for your opponent to return the shuttlecock. Use your wrist to hit the shuttlecock at an angle and to make it spin in the air.
4. Aim for the corners.
When serving, it is important to aim for the corners of your opponent’s court. This will make it difficult for your opponent to return the shuttlecock and will give you an advantage in the rally.
Conclusion
Serving in badminton is an important skill that requires practice and technique. It is important to know the different types of serves and to understand the correct technique for each one. With practice and dedication, you can become an expert at serving and use it to your advantage in the game.