Badminton is a popular sport enjoyed by millions of people around the world. It is a game that involves two or four players, and each player is equipped with a racquet. The objective of the game is to hit a shuttlecock over a net and score points. But what exactly is the object that is being hit?
The Object in Badminton: The Shuttlecock
The object that is hit in badminton is called the shuttlecock. It is also commonly referred to as a “birdie” or “shuttle”. The shuttlecock is a feathered projectile that is hit back and forth over a net. It is composed of sixteen overlapping feathers that are attached to a plastic or cork base.
The Origins of the Shuttlecock
The game of badminton is believed to have originated in the mid-1800s in England. At the time, it was known as “pooree” and was played with a shuttlecock made of feathers and a racquet. The rules of the game were quite similar to the modern game of badminton, which is why it is believed to have been the inspiration for the sport.
The Design and Construction of the Shuttlecock
The design and construction of the shuttlecock has remained relatively unchanged since it was first introduced. The feathers used for the shuttlecock are usually goose or duck feathers, although other feathers may also be used. The feathers are arranged in a conical shape with the base of the cone facing the direction of the flight. The feathers are secured to a plastic or cork base, which is usually about 3 centimeters in diameter. The feathers are held in place with a rubber band or string, and the entire assembly is secured with a rubber band or string.
The Quality of the Shuttlecock
The quality of the shuttlecock is important for the game of badminton. A good quality shuttlecock should have feathers that are evenly arranged and secured tightly to the base. The weight of the shuttlecock should also be consistent. A lower quality shuttlecock may have feathers that are not securely attached to the base, which can lead to unpredictable flight patterns. The materials used to construct the shuttlecock should also be of a good quality, as low-quality materials can affect the flight of the shuttlecock.
The Different Types of Shuttlecocks
There are different types of shuttlecocks available on the market. The most common type is the nylon shuttlecock, which is made using nylon and cork. This type of shuttlecock is usually the cheapest, but it also tends to be the least durable. The second type of shuttlecock is the feather shuttlecock, which is made with feathers and cork. This type of shuttlecock is more expensive, but it is also more durable and has a better flight path. The third type of shuttlecock is the plastic shuttlecock, which is made with plastic and cork. This type of shuttlecock is usually the most expensive, but it is also the most durable and has the best flight path.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the object that is hit in badminton is called the shuttlecock. It is a feathered projectile that is made up of sixteen overlapping feathers attached to a plastic or cork base. The game of badminton is believed to have originated in the mid-1800s in England, and the design and construction of the shuttlecock has remained relatively unchanged since that time. There are different types of shuttlecocks available on the market, and the quality of the shuttlecock is important for the game of badminton.