Para badminton is a sport that has been around since the early 2000s. It is a game that is played by athletes with a physical disability and is designed to give them an opportunity to compete at the same level as those without a disability. Although the sport is relatively new, it has grown in popularity in recent years and has become a part of the Paralympic Games. This article will discuss the history of para badminton, how it is played, and how it has evolved over the years.
History of Para Badminton
Para badminton was first developed in the early 2000s by the International Badminton Federation (IBF). The IBF wanted to create a sport that could be played by athletes with a physical disability and give them an equal opportunity to compete at the same level as those without a disability. The first para badminton tournament was held in 2004, and the first World Championships were held in 2006.
In 2010, para badminton was officially recognized by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and was added to the Paralympic Games in 2012. Since then, the sport has grown in popularity and has become a part of the Paralympic Games.
Rules and Regulations
Para badminton is played by two teams of two players. Each team is allowed to use a maximum of five shuttles. The game is played over three sets, with each set consisting of 21 points.
The rules of para badminton are similar to those of regular badminton. The main difference is that para badminton allows for certain modifications to the court and rules. For example, the court size can be altered to accommodate a wheelchair, and the shuttlecock can be modified to be heavier or lighter.
Classification
Para badminton is divided into three main categories: standing, wheelchair, and vision impaired.
Standing: Standing para badminton is for athletes who are able to stand, but may have a physical disability.
Wheelchair: Wheelchair para badminton is for athletes who are unable to stand and must use a wheelchair.
Vision Impaired: Vision impaired para badminton is for athletes who are blind or have a visual impairment.
Each category has its own set of rules and regulations. For example, in standing para badminton, players must be able to stand for a minimum of five seconds without assistance. In wheelchair para badminton, players must use a wheelchair that meets the IPC’s specifications.
Evolution of Para Badminton
Since its introduction in the early 2000s, para badminton has undergone several changes. The rules and regulations have been modified to accommodate different types of disabilities, and the court size has been altered to make it easier for players in wheelchairs to play.
In addition, the sport has grown in popularity and is now a part of the Paralympic Games. In 2020, para badminton made its debut at the Tokyo Paralympic Games with 60 athletes from 15 different countries competing.
Conclusion
Para badminton is a sport that has been around since the early 2000s. It is designed to give athletes with physical disabilities an opportunity to compete at the same level as those without a disability. The sport has grown in popularity in recent years and is now a part of the Paralympic Games. This article has discussed the history of para badminton, how it is played, and how it has evolved over the years.