Types of Serves in Badminton – Improve Your Game

Introduction

Badminton is a game of skill and speed. One of the most important parts of badminton is the serve. A good serve can give you an advantage right from the start. If you  Know the different types of serves in badminton, then it  will help you play better and win more points to become man of the match. In this guide, we will explain to you the different serves in badminton, how to do them, and tips to improve your serves.

What is a Serve in Badminton?

A serve in badminton is the first shot of a rally. The player hits the shuttlecock from their service area to the opponent’s side. The main goal of a serve is to put the shuttle in a good position so the opponent finds it hard to return. There are different types of serves that players use depending on their strategy and playing style.

Types of Serves in Badminton

Each type of serve has a different goal and is useful in specific situations. Mastering different types of serves can help you control the game and gain an advantage over your opponent. Here are the four main types of serves:

1. High Serve

• Goal: Used in singles to push the opponent to the back of the court and create space for the next shot.
• How to Do It:
  • Hold the shuttle by the feathers.
  • Use an underarm forehand motion.
  • Swing your racket fully upwards to send the shuttle high and far.
• When to Use: Best for singles matches when you want to move the opponent backward and take control of the rally.
• Tip: Ensure the shuttle reaches the opponent’s back boundary line to reduce their attacking options.

2. Low Serve

• Goal: Keeps the shuttle low over the net, making it hard for the opponent to attack and forcing them to lift the shuttle.
• How to Do It:
  • Hold the shuttle close to the racket.
  • Use a gentle push motion with a light grip.
  • Make the shuttle fly just over the net.
• When to Use: Often used in doubles to control the rally from the start and avoid giving the opponent a chance to attack.
• Tip: Focus on precision rather than power to keep the shuttle close to the net.

3. Flick Serve

• Goal: A deceptive serve that surprises opponents expecting a low serve by sending the shuttle high and deep.
• How to Do It:
  • Start in a low serve position.
  • Use a quick flick of the wrist to send the shuttle high and deep.
  • Keep your stance the same to confuse your opponent.
• When to Use: Great for doubles to catch opponents off guard and break their rhythm.
• Tip: Maintain a relaxed grip and use your wrist to generate sudden power for the flick.

4. Drive Serve

• Goal: A fast and straight serve that puts pressure on the opponent by reducing their reaction time.
• How to Do It:
  • Use a backhand grip.
  • Hit the shuttle fast and flat across the net.
  • Aim close to the opponent’s body to limit their movement.
• When to Use: Best for fast-paced doubles games where quick reflexes are needed.
• Tip: Target the opponent’s weaker side or body to make it harder for them to return the serve.

How to Get Better at Your Serves

To improve your serves in badminton, follow these simple tips:

1. Practice Regularly: The more you practice, the better your accuracy and consistency.
2. Strengthen Your Wrist: A strong wrist helps you control the shuttle better and execute deceptive serves.
3. Aim for Precision: Try to place the shuttle in difficult spots for your opponent.
4. Vary Your Serves: Change your serves often to keep your opponent guessing and avoid predictability.
5. Watch and Learn: Observe professional players and learn different serving techniques from their matches.
6. Work on Footwork: Proper foot positioning will help you serve with better balance and control.

Common Mistakes While Serving

Try to avoid these common mistakes:

• Holding the Shuttle Incorrectly: Always hold the feathers for better control and accuracy.
• Hitting the Shuttle Too Hard: A serve should be controlled, not just powerful.
• Poor Stance and Footwork: A stable stance is essential for a smooth and effective serve.
• Repetitive Serving Patterns: If you use the same serve repeatedly, your opponent will predict it easily.
• Serving Above the Waist: In badminton, the serve must be hit below the waist to follow the rules.

If you mastering different types of serves in badminton and avoiding common mistakes. At Rackonnect, we will help you to improve your overall game and gain an edge over your opponents.