In badminton, there are four different types of serve: low serve, flick serve, drive serve, and high serve. This service can be performed using a backhand serve. Typically a serve in badminton is used to start a rally.
The backhand serve is usually used in doubles categories, but there is an exception: It can also be used in singles categories.
The backhand serve offers variations in the trajectories depending on the serve type.
To perform a perfect backhand serve, use a backhand grip, hold the shuttlecock with your thumb and index finger, and move your racket in a short and forward motion.
How to serve using backhand in badminton
Rules to follow while serving in badminton
There are five serving rules in badminton for both singles and doubles.
- Both feet must be in contact with the floor when striking the shuttle.
- Your feet must not be touching any of the court lines.
- You must strike the cork, not the feather.
- The whole shuttle must be struck below 1.15m.
- The serve must be delivered in a forward continuous motion.
Short serve in badminton
A short serve is also known as a low serve and is used when you are targeting the short service line in front of the opponent, aiming to limit their ability to play an aggressive shot. These types of serves are effective in doubles categories.
To execute a short serve:
- Hold the feathered part of the shuttlecock, with your thumb and index finger, ensuring that the head is facing downwards.
- By utilizing the backhand grip, position the racket behind the shuttlecock and point it downwards.
- Step slightly forward with your dominant leg.
- Release the shuttlecock and push your racket forward with your thumb toward the target.
- It will generate a force from the push of the thumb and flick of the wrists.
The service preparation
Step 1: Start with a backhand grip, positioning your hand slightly on the handle. This shorter level will enhance your control of the serve.
Step 2: Keep your badminton racket at an angle of approximately 45 degrees.
Step 3: Maintain some space between your racket and the body to allow for a small backswing. The ideal amount of space to be kept depends on personal preference.
Step 4: Grip your shuttlecock with your thumb and index finger, and position them with your fingers halfway down the feathers. This will allow you to secure hold while also enabling your fingers to move aside during the strike.
Step 5: The angle at which you hold the shuttle is crucial.
This is important because:
- If you hold the shuttle with the cork facing on the floor, you are at risk of hitting your thumb or you will hit your flick serve too high, giving the opponent ample time to play an aggressive shot.
- If the cork is facing too much towards you then, there is a higher chance of hitting the shuttle into the net or a very flat flick serve.
- If you hold the shuttle sideways, then you will hit the feathers and lose control of the shot.
Step 6: How you stand while performing the backhand is crucial, and it’s down to personal preference. The most common way to stand is with your right leg in front, or your feet side by side in parallel.
Step 7: Stand close to the service line. This will be an advantage for you as if the shuttle travels from the shortest distance then there will be less time for the opponent to respond to your serve, allowing you to swiftly advance towards the net. However, in a few instances like while playing singles or mixed doubles, you can stand backwards.
