Badminton is a popular sport that has been enjoyed by millions of people for centuries. It is a racquet sport that involves hitting a shuttlecock across a net. While the rules and equipment have changed over time, the basics of the game have remained the same since its inception. In this article, we will explore how badminton was originally played and how it has evolved over time.
Origin of Badminton
Badminton is believed to have originated in India, where the game was known as Poona. It was played by British officers stationed in India in the 19th century. The game was then brought back to England and became known as badminton. The first Badminton Club was established in 1873 in Gloucestershire, England.
Early Rules of Badminton
The early rules of badminton were similar to modern rules, though the court size and equipment were slightly different. The court was much larger than it is today, measuring 44 feet by 20 feet. The net was also higher, standing at 5 feet and 6 inches. The shuttlecock was made from a cork base and 16 goose feathers, and the rackets were made from wood.
The game was also played differently. Instead of serving from the back of the court as is done today, players served from the middle of the court. The players stood on either side of the net and hit the shuttlecock back and forth until one player was unable to return it. Points were scored when the shuttlecock hit the ground on the opponent’s side of the court.
Evolution of Badminton
The original rules of badminton have evolved over time. The court size was reduced to 40 feet by 20 feet in the early 20th century. The net was also lowered to the current height of 5 feet and 1 inch. The shuttlecock was also changed from a cork base with 16 goose feathers to a synthetic base with 14 feathers. The rackets were also changed from wood to metal with a larger head size and strings.
The rules of the game were also changed in the early 20th century. The serve was changed from the middle of the court to the back of the court. The rules were also modified to allow for a double fault, which occurs when the server fails to return the shuttlecock after two attempts.
Modern Badminton
Today, the rules and equipment used in badminton have been further refined. The court size remains the same, but the shuttlecock is now made from synthetic materials and the rackets are made from graphite and aluminum. The rules of the game have also been modified to include a rally scoring system and the introduction of the volleying and smashing techniques.
Conclusion
Badminton has come a long way since it was first played in India in the 19th century. The rules and equipment have been modified to create the modern game that is enjoyed by millions of people around the world. Despite the changes, the basics of the game have remained the same, making it one of the most enduring sports in history.