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First, what most of us refer to as the birdie is officially known as the shuttlecock. Badminton rules call for two to four players to volley the shuttlecock until such time as it hits the ground, or falls out of bounds – or if it is hit more than once by the same player or the same side (doubles). Shots that land on the line are considered ‘in bounds’. The net must be hung at approximately five feet from the ground.
Badminton rules for scoring are slightly different than for similar volleying games such as Volley Ball. The individual/team can only score on their serve – and not when the opponent serves. I suspect this might be why badminton rules for scoring call for a win at the first side that reaches 15 points. Its 25 points in Volley ball by comparison.
Badminton rules state the net may not be touched by either badminton rackets or players and the players may not reach past the top of the net to hit the shuttlecock. When serving, badminton rackets must not contact the shuttlecock above the server’s waist. Also, the shuttlecock may never be carried on the badminton racquet or allowed to rest on the racquet while in play. During singles play badminton rules call for the serve to be hit into the diagonal, from the right hand court when the score is even, from the left when the score is odd. If a player steps out of bounds, hits the net, or hits it twice it is called a fault.
Serious players, not unlike pool sharks, usually have their own badminton racquets The badminton racquet typically found in inexpensive badminton sets may not last you very long if you too become a serious player. A good source for badminton racquets can be found here. A good tournament set can be found here.
A badminton racquet is a very unlike a tennis racket. Its surface area is smaller and a bit rounder. Also, the handle is a bit longer and thinner. There is an incredible variability in price between a starter badminton racquet and a professional badminton racquet. The best badminton racquets are made of high tech graphite and are precisely balanced and tuned for strength and performance. In fact you can order the nicest badminton racquet with or without strings – the later allowing you to use thinner strings – further improving control. Click here to see an example.
For casual entertainment you don’t have to stick to the badminton rules though. For some it’s more entertaining, and less competitive, to play with rules more along the lines of ping pong.
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