Badminton is an increasingly popular sport, with over 150 million people playing it worldwide. It is a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. But is it an upper class sport? This article will explore the question of whether or not badminton is considered an upper class sport.
History of Badminton
Badminton is one of the oldest racket sports, with its roots dating back to the 16th century. It originated in India, where it was known as “Poona” or “Poonah”. The game was popular among the British military who stationed in India and brought the game back to England in 1873. The Duke of Beaufort then introduced the game to his guests at his estate in Badminton, Gloucestershire, where it gained its name.
Badminton’s Popularity
Since its introduction in 1873, badminton has grown in popularity with players in over 150 countries. It is an Olympic sport and is a popular recreational activity, with many people playing badminton in their backyards, parks and gyms. The sport is also popular in schools, with many physical education classes teaching the basics of badminton.
Badminton’s Image
Despite its popularity, badminton has traditionally been seen as a sport mainly played by the upper classes. This image has been perpetuated by the fact that many of the top badminton players come from wealthy backgrounds and have largely been members of the upper classes. This has led to the perception that badminton is an upper class sport and is only played by the rich.
However, this is not necessarily the case. Badminton is now a sport that is enjoyed by people from all walks of life. There are many clubs and organizations all across the world that are open to people from all backgrounds and levels of skill.
Affordability of Badminton
One of the reasons why badminton may be perceived as an upper class sport is because it can be expensive to get started. The equipment, such as the rackets and shuttlecocks, can be costly and some courts may charge a fee to play.
However, there are ways to make badminton more affordable for everyone. Many sports stores offer discounted prices on rackets and shuttlecocks and there are some free courts available to use. Furthermore, many gyms and recreation centers offer badminton at a discounted rate, or even for free.
Conclusion
In conclusion, badminton is not necessarily an upper class sport. It is an increasingly popular sport that can be enjoyed by people of all backgrounds and levels of skill. While the equipment and courts may be expensive for some, there are ways to make badminton more accessible and affordable for all.