What specific efforts should we make to master the backhand shot in badminton?
•4 min read
For the vast majority of badminton enthusiasts, the backhand drop shot in the backcourt is undoubtedly a nightmare—perhaps the weakest area on the entire court. To overcome this, players either adjust their positioning or force themselves into awkward sideways movements, trying to turn the passive situation around on the court.
When it comes to technical movements, the backhand in the backcourt is indeed much more complex than the forehand. So, what specific efforts should we make to master the badminton backhand shot in the backcourt?
I. Improving the speed of grip switching is essential:
When playing, the grip for forehand and backhand strokes differs. As the ball approaches, quickly assess whether you’ll need to return it with a backhand. Once you’ve made your decision, swiftly adjust your grip to prepare for the backhand shot. Improving the speed of your grip transition and mastering this technique are essential prerequisites for executing strong backhand shots from the backcourt.
II. A confident stride is the foundation:
First, make sure your stance and hitting position are correct. Compared to a forehand shot, maintaining a stable center of gravity is crucial in a backhand stroke—any imbalance can cause your body to sway, leading to an unsuccessful hit. While most professional players can effortlessly execute a backhand before their feet even touch the ground, this isn’t so easy for many amateur players.
Stable center of gravity is the foundation for mastering footwork, yet on the court, many players adopt a parallel stance with both feet when executing a backhand high-ball shot—precisely an unwise posture that easily leads to loss of balance and results in the ball landing in the net.
3. The correct placement is as a supplement:On the court, many amateur players become overly concerned about hitting backcourt shots poorly, leading them to adopt a passive, avoidant approach. As a result, their preparatory movements for striking the shuttlecock often become inadequate. When moving toward the incoming ball, many players opt for a sideways step—using only minimal body rotation to turn their shoulders and execute the shot. This flawed setup at the racket’s initial position naturally results in an incorrect swing path, ultimately causing the shuttlecock’s flight trajectory to deviate significantly from your intended aim. 4. Accurate hitting is the ultimate refinement:
Considering the optimal hitting point in badminton:1. The distance of the hitting point from your body—front, back, left, and right.2. The vertical distance between the hitting point and the court surface—finding the right hitting point is crucial for determining the quality of your shot, influencing everything from power and speed to the trajectory and landing spot. That’s why having an appropriate hitting point is especially important for backhand shots in the backcourt.
5. Proper force application leads to explosiveness:
Executing a backhand stroke is a highly technical move—it’s not something you can solve by simply relying on brute force. When hitting a backhand, improper use of power can easily lead to either overloading your entire body or shifting your point off-target. To master this technique, combine it with well-practiced footwork: stand with your back to the net, locate the ideal hitting position, and adopt the correct backhand grip. Keep your elbow naturally bent, positioned slightly below shoulder height, and aim to draw your shoulder joint inward as you swing through the ball. This fluid motion will allow power and speed to emerge effortlessly.
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