Types Of Grip

The correct racket grip is the foundation for effective strokes and essential for improving your playing level.

Beginners should start off using only the universal grip , which allows all strokes to be played safely and effectively.

Depending on the game situation, experienced badminton players vary their grip in order to be able to play certain strokes more effectively.

The variations of the universal grip is the short grip and the long grip.In general ,the racket is held loosely between strokes .It is only gripped tightly when a stroke is being played.At the elite level ,players use variations of the universal grip to suit the situation and turn the racket up to 30 degree to the left or right.

In the Universal grip...

• the hitting surface forms an extension of the palm of the hand.
• thumb and index finger form a "V".
• the hand is completely wrapped around the handle.
• the lower edge of the hand is level with the end of the handle.

In the Short grip...

• the hand grips the racket at the top of the handle.
• the player can hit the shuttle harder
• this grip is used when the shuttle needs to be "killed"at the net.
• this grip can also be used effectively in the drive and for net play .

  

  Short Grip

In the Long grip...

• the player grips the racket at the end of the handle.
• in extreme cases the palm of the hand is lower than the handle.
• in forehand shots,the index finger stabilizes the stroke.
• in backhand shots, the thumb increases the pressure of the stroke.
• the long grip is mostly suited for the smash.

  

  Long Grip

Tip:-Hold the racket loosely in the hand and only grip tightly when playing a stroke.

Many players believe that a tight grip gives them more power.that is wrong: in order to generate power ,the grip must initially be relaxed. 

Drills:-

1. Hit a shuttle vertically up into the air and then hit repeatedly with forehand and backhand.
2. Hit a shuttle hard against a wall , so that it bounces back and can be hit again.
3. Change the grips to Universal,Long,and Short grips during a change-clear drill.
4. Twisting or turning of racket in the hand to develop a feel for it.