Grips are the foundation of badminton technique. The grip is the first thing the player must learn to understand and master before attempting any advanced shots. A good grip allows the player to generate power and control the shuttlecock with precision. It also helps to reduce the strain on the wrists and arms. There are several different grips available for badminton, but which one is the best?
Types of Badminton Grips
The most common grips used in badminton are the forehand grip, the backhand grip, and the neutral grip.
Forehand Grip
The forehand grip is the most widely used grip in badminton. It is the grip used by most players to hit forehand shots and is the basis of most badminton techniques. The forehand grip is a modified version of the traditional grip used in other sports such as tennis. The index finger is placed on the top of the racquet handle, while the remaining fingers and thumb wrap around the handle. The thumb should be placed slightly lower than the forefinger. The grip should be comfortable, but firm enough to let the player generate power.
Backhand Grip
The backhand grip is the grip used for backhand shots. The grip is similar to the forehand grip, except the thumb and index finger are reversed. The thumb is placed on the top of the handle, while the index finger wraps around the handle. This grip allows the player to generate more power for backhand shots, as the wrist can be used to generate more force.
Neutral Grip
The neutral grip is a variation of the forehand and backhand grip. It is used for all-round strokes, such as drives and clears. The grip is similar to the forehand grip, except the thumb is placed on the side of the handle, instead of the top. This grip allows the player to generate power with both the forehand and backhand strokes.
Which Grip is the Best?
When deciding which grip is the best, it is important to consider the individual’s playing style and preference. Some players may prefer the forehand grip, while others may prefer the backhand grip. It is also important to consider the individual’s level of skill and comfort. If a player is comfortable with a particular grip, it is best to stick with that grip.
However, for most players, the best grip is the neutral grip. This is because it allows the player to generate power with both the forehand and backhand strokes. The neutral grip also allows the player to hit shots with more accuracy and control. It is important to remember that the neutral grip is not a substitute for the forehand and backhand grips, but rather a combination of the two.
Conclusion
The best grip in badminton is the neutral grip. This grip allows the player to generate power with both the forehand and backhand strokes and hit shots with accuracy and control. It is important to remember that the grip should be comfortable and firm enough to generate power, but not too tight as this can cause strain on the wrists and arms. Experimenting with different grips is the best way to find the grip that works best for the individual player.