Acknowledgement
Acknowledgement
I have taken efforts in this project. However, it would not have been
possible without the kind support and help of many individuals and my
school. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to every person who
has contributed in making this project.
I would like to express my deep and sincere gratitude to our Principal
sir and project in charge Mr. Navratan Singh for giving me the golden
opportunity to do the project which helped me in doing a lot of
research and I came to know about many new things and also I am very
thankful for providing me invaluable guidance throughout my project.
They have taught me the methodology to carry out the project and to
present the project work as clearly as possible. Their dynamism, vision,
sincerity and motivation have deeply inspired me. In addition, I would
like to thank the C.B.S.E Board for including this project work in our
course content and curriculum. It was a great privilege and honor to
work and study under his guidance.
I am extremely grateful to my parents for their kind cooperation and
encouragement, which helped me in completion of this project. I am
very thankful to my sister, brothers who helped me a lot in finalizing
the project within the limited period and for their support. My special
thanks also goes to my friends for the keen interest shown to complete
this thesis successfully and motivating me.
D.A.V SCHOOL
CERTIFICATE OF MERIT
______________________ ______________________
CONTENTS
1.Motor fitness Test
Introduction
Components
Test contents
Administration of test
2. Asanas for Prevention and care of Asthma
3. Senior citizens fitness test
4. Badminton
Introduction
History
Equipment
Rules, Faults and Scoring System
Strategies
Notable players
Conclusion
MOTOR FITNESS TEST
INTRODUCTION
Motor fitness is a term that describes an athlete’s ability to perform
effectively during sports or other physical activity. An athlete’s motor
fitness is a combination of five different components, each of which is
essential for high levels of performance. Improving fitness involves a
training regimen in all five.
In sports, these tests are instrumental for coaches and athletes, offering
a baseline to identify areas for improvement and tailor training
regimens to specific needs. For rehabilitation purposes, motor fitness
tests help track progress and customize therapeutic exercises to
enhance coordination and mobility. In general fitness programs, these
assessments guide the development of well-rounded exercise plans,
ensuring a balanced focus on different motor skills.
Common components of motor fitness tests include assessments of
flexibility, dynamic balance, reaction time, and agility. These
evaluations contribute to a nuanced understanding of an individual's
physical capabilities, informing the design of targeted interventions to
enhance performance and prevent injuries. The results of motor fitness
tests are instrumental in fostering a holistic approach to health and
fitness, emphasizing the interconnectedness of motor skills and overall
well-being.
COMPONENTS OF MOTOR FITNESS TEST
Coordination:
Making bodies and senses move accordingly to produce fluent and
controlled movement. It is our body parts synchronisation to enhance
motor skills.
Example: hand-eye coordination in volleying a table tennis ball, hitting a
ball, juggling.
Reaction Time:
In the shortest period, the ability to respond to any event or
happenings. It is the interpretation and reaction to an expected or
unexpected situation.
Example: Sound of a pistol makes people run here and there; it is an
expected event. A bicycle in front of you, your reaction in this situation
is an unexpected event.
Agility:
The body can change direction and stop quickly. A person can control
their direction and body’s position during momentum.
Example: Doing sprinting by changing course to tennis ball.
Power:
Our muscles can transfer energy to apply force as fast as possible.
Speed and muscular force, when combined, power is formed.
Example: Gymnast performance on rings and uneven bars, throwing or
lifting heavy objects or weights.
Balance:
It is the ability to hold on to a particular position without falling. It
includes stabilising the body while standing or maintaining motion.
There are two types of balance- static balance and dynamic balance. Ice
skating, bicycle, and skiing are exercises of balance.
Static Balance, i.e., is the upright remaining while staying still or
standing on one leg. Dynamic balance is the stability in motion.
Speed:
It is the ability to move the limbs in the fastest possible time. It is the
ability to move your body swiftly. It is associated with running and
other exercises like throwing or kicking a ball, depending on the hand
movement.
TEST CONTENTS
A comprehensive motor fitness test typically involves assessing various
aspects of neuromuscular functioning and motor skills. The specific test
contents may vary based on the goals of the assessment, the
population being tested, and the available resources. In the context of
the described fitness test, there are seven key items, each targeting
specific aspects of strength, endurance, and speed. Let's delve into
each of these components in detail.
1. Pull-ups: Pull-ups are a fundamental exercise that primarily
targets the muscles of the upper body, particularly the arms and
shoulder girdle. For girls, the test involves starting from a flexed
armhang, which adds an extra challenge to the exercise. This test
is an excellent measure of upper body strength and the ability to
control and lift one's body weight.
2. Flexed Leg Sit-ups: The flexed leg sit-up test focuses on assessing
the efficiency of the abdominal and hip flexor muscles. Sit-ups are
a classic exercise for strengthening the core, and this variation
specifically evaluates the ability to engage and flex the abdominal
and hip muscles. Core strength is essential for various functional
movements and activities.
1. Sukhasana
Sukhasana, commonly known as the Easy Pose, is a seated yoga
posture that is often used for meditation and pranayama (breath
control) exercises. The name "Sukhasana" is derived from the
Sanskrit words "Sukha," meaning ease or pleasure, and "Asana,"
meaning pose or posture. This pose is considered one of the
foundational and accessible seated poses in yoga.
Procedure:
1. Start by sitting on the floor or a mat with your legs extended.
2. Cross your legs at the shins, bringing each foot under the opposite
knee.
3. Keep your knees wide, and place your hands on your knees, palms
facing down or up.
4. Ensure your spine is straight, shoulders relaxed, and chin parallel
to the ground.
5. Rest your hands on your knees or bring them into a mudra (hand
gesture) of your choice.
6. Breathe deeply and evenly, maintaining a comfortable and
relaxed posture.
7. Hold the pose for a desired duration.
Benefits:
1. Ease and Comfort: Sukhasana is aptly named for its comfort and
ease. It is accessible for practitioners of all levels and ages.
2. Improves Posture: Regular practice of Sukhasana helps in aligning
the spine, enhancing overall posture.
3. Meditative Stance: The pose is conducive to meditation,
promoting a calm and focused mind.
4. Hip Flexibility: Sukhasana gently opens the hips, improving
flexibility in the hip joints.
5. Stress Reduction: The meditative aspects of this pose aid in
reducing stress and anxiety.
6. Strengthens Back Muscles: Engaging the back muscles to
maintain an upright posture contributes to back strength.
Contraindications:
1. Knee or Hip Injury: Individuals with knee or hip injuries may find
discomfort in this pose. Modify as needed or consult a healthcare
professional.
2. Pregnancy: Pregnant women may need to use props or choose
alternative seated poses, especially in later trimesters.
3. Recent Surgery: Those who have had recent surgery, particularly
on the lower back, knees, or hips, should approach with caution.
4. Ankle or Joint Pain: People with chronic ankle or joint pain may
need to modify the pose or avoid it.
Sukhasana is a versatile pose suitable for various contexts, but
practitioners should listen to their bodies and adapt the pose as
necessary, especially if dealing with specific health concerns.
2. Chakrasana
Chakrasana, commonly known as the Wheel Pose, is a dynamic and
invigorating yoga asana that involves a deep backbend. The name
"Chakrasana" is derived from the Sanskrit words "Chakra," meaning
wheel, and "Asana," meaning pose or posture. This pose is so named
because the body, when in the full expression, resembles a wheel or
an upward-facing arc.
Procedure:
1. Start by lying on your back with your knees bent and feet hip-
width apart, close to your sitting bones.
2. Place your hands beside your head, with fingers pointing toward
your shoulders.
3. Press through your palms and lift your body, allowing your head,
shoulders, and feet to come off the ground.
4. Straighten your arms and legs as much as possible, creating an
upward arch with your spine.
5. Keep your thighs and inner feet parallel, and ensure that your
knees are not splaying outward.
6. Engage your core muscles to support your lower back.
7. Breathe deeply and hold the pose for a comfortable duration.
Benefits:
1. Strengthens the Back: Chakrasana is excellent for strengthening
the muscles along the spine, particularly the lower back.
2. Improves Flexibility: This pose opens up the chest, shoulders, and
hip flexors, enhancing overall flexibility.
3. Stimulates the Nervous System: The deep backbend stimulates
the nervous system, providing an energizing effect.
4. Strengthens Arms and Legs: Supporting the body weight on the
hands and feet helps in building strength in the arms and legs.
5. Promotes Respiratory Health: The expanded chest in Chakrasana
allows for deeper breaths, promoting respiratory health.
6. Enhances Mood: Backbends are known for their mood-enhancing
qualities, as they may help alleviate feelings of fatigue and mild
depression.
Contraindications:
1. Back Issues: Individuals with serious back injuries or chronic back
pain should avoid or modify this pose.
2. Wrist or Shoulder Problems: People with wrist or shoulder issues
should be cautious, and modifications may be necessary.
3. High Blood Pressure: Those with high blood pressure should avoid
holding the pose for an extended duration.
4. Headache: Chakrasana can sometimes cause headaches, so
individuals prone to headaches should approach with caution.
5. Pregnancy: Pregnant women, especially those not accustomed to
the pose, should avoid it or practice with extreme caution.
It's advisable to learn Chakrasana under the guidance of a qualified
yoga instructor, especially if you are a beginner or have any pre-
existing health concerns.
3. Gomukhasana
Gomukhasana, commonly known as Cow Face Pose, is a seated yoga
asana that involves a deep stretch for the shoulders and hips. The
name "Gomukhasana" is derived from the Sanskrit words "Go,"
meaning cow, "Mukha," meaning face, and "Asana," meaning pose
or posture. The pose is so named because the final arm position
resembles the face of a cow.
Procedure:
1. Start by sitting on the floor or a yoga mat with your legs extended.
2. Bend your knees and bring your left foot under your right buttock,
placing it to the outside of the right hip.
3. Cross your right leg over the left, stacking the knees directly on
top of each other.
4. Bring your left arm up alongside your left ear, palm facing the
center of your back.
5. Bend your left elbow and reach your hand down your back,
fingers pointing downward.
6. Simultaneously, bring your right arm behind your back, reaching
up towards your left hand.
7. Attempt to clasp fingers or hold onto a strap, towel, or any
accessible prop if your hands cannot reach.
8. Keep your spine straight and chest open, breathing deeply and
holding the pose for a comfortable duration.
9. Repeat on the opposite side by switching the position of your legs
and arms.
Benefits:
1. Shoulder Stretch: Gomukhasana provides an intense stretch for
the shoulders and arms, particularly the deltoids and triceps.
2. Hip Opener: The crossed leg position in this pose opens and
stretches the hips, improving flexibility.
3. Chest Expansion: The pose expands the chest, promoting better
lung capacity and respiratory function.
4. Improves Posture: Regular practice of Cow Face Pose helps in
improving overall posture by aligning the spine.
5. Stress Relief: The focus on breath and the stretch in the shoulders
can have a calming effect, relieving stress and tension.
6. Stimulates Kidneys: The compression on the lower back and
abdominal area in Gomukhasana can stimulate the kidneys.
Contraindications:
1. Knee or Hip Issues: Individuals with knee or hip injuries should
use caution and may need props or modifications.
2. Shoulder Problems: Those with shoulder injuries or limited
shoulder mobility should approach this pose with care.
3. Neck Issues: People with neck problems should keep the gaze
forward and avoid straining the neck.
4. Pregnancy: Pregnant women should modify the pose by sitting on
a block or cushion and avoid intense twisting.
As with any yoga pose, it's essential to approach Gomukhasana
mindfully, listen to your body, and make modifications as needed,
especially if you have specific health concerns.
4.Parvatasana
Parvatasana, commonly known as Mountain Pose, is a foundational
yoga posture that is often used as a starting or resting position during
yoga practice. The name "Parvatasana" is derived from the Sanskrit
words "Parvata," meaning mountain, and "Asana," meaning pose or
posture. This pose is straightforward but offers various benefits for the
body and mind.
Procedure:
1. Start in a tabletop position on your hands and knees.
2. Tuck your toes under, lift your hips toward the ceiling, and
straighten your legs, coming into an inverted V-shape.
3. Ground your palms firmly on the mat, ensuring your hands are
shoulder-width apart.
4. Spread your fingers wide and press into the knuckles to engage
the entire hand.
5. Lengthen your spine, drawing your chest toward your thighs, and
allow your heels to sink toward the floor.
6. Keep your head in line with your arms, and your gaze directed
between your feet.
7. Engage your thighs, lift your sit bones toward the ceiling, and
maintain a straight line from your wrists to your hips.
8. Breathe deeply and hold the pose for a comfortable duration.
Benefits:
1. Strengthens the Upper Body: Parvatasana engages the arms,
shoulders, and upper back muscles, promoting strength and
stability.
2. Stretches the Spine: The elongation of the spine in this pose helps
improve posture and relieve tension in the back.
3. Stimulates Digestive Organs: The inversion created by lifting the
hips can stimulate the digestive organs, aiding in digestion.
4. Calms the Mind: The inverted position encourages a sense of
calmness and can help alleviate mild stress or anxiety.
5. Increases Blood Circulation: The posture encourages blood flow
to the brain, enhancing circulation and energy.
6. Builds Core Strength: Maintaining the alignment of the body in
Parvatasana requires engagement of the core muscles.
Contraindications:
1. Wrist or Shoulder Issues: Individuals with wrist or shoulder
problems should be cautious, and they may modify the pose or
avoid it.
2. High Blood Pressure: Those with high blood pressure or heart
issues should be mindful and consider a gentler variation.
3. Pregnancy: Pregnant women may practice Parvatasana, but
modifications might be needed to accommodate the changing
body.
4. Recent Injuries: People with recent injuries or medical conditions
should consult a healthcare professional or a qualified yoga
instructor before attempting this pose.
Parvatasana is a versatile pose that serves as a fundamental element in
various yoga sequences, providing a moment of rest and reset between
other poses. It's important to practice it mindfully, paying attention to
the alignment and how your body responds.
5. Bhujangasana
Bhujangasana, commonly known as Cobra Pose, is a backbending
yoga asana that resembles the raised hood of a cobra. The name
"Bhujangasana" is derived from the Sanskrit words "Bhujanga,"
meaning serpent or cobra, and "Asana," meaning pose or posture.
This pose is often incorporated into yoga sequences for its benefits
in strengthening the back, opening the chest, and improving spinal
flexibility.
Procedure:
1. Start by lying on your stomach with your legs extended and the
tops of your feet resting on the mat.
2. Place your hands under your shoulders, fingers spread wide, and
elbows tucked close to your body.
3. Press the tops of your feet into the mat and engage your leg
muscles.
4. Inhale as you lift your chest off the mat, using the strength of your
back muscles.
5. Keep your elbows slightly bent and ensure that your pubic bone
remains in contact with the mat.
6. Draw your shoulder blades back and down, opening your chest,
and lift your gaze forward or slightly upward.
7. Breathe deeply and hold the pose, maintaining the engagement of
your back muscles.
8. To release, exhale as you slowly lower your chest back to the mat.
Benefits:
1. Strengthens the Back: Bhujangasana strengthens the muscles
along the spine, promoting a healthy and strong back.
2. Improves Posture: Regular practice of Cobra Pose helps in
opening the chest and improving overall posture.
3. Stretches the Front Body: The pose stretches the muscles in the
front of the torso, including the abdomen and hip flexors.
4. Enhances Lung Capacity: Opening the chest in Bhujangasana
allows for deeper breaths, enhancing lung capacity and
respiratory function.
5. Stimulates Abdominal Organs: The compression and stretch in
the abdominal area stimulate and massage the organs, aiding
digestion.
6. Relieves Mild Backache: This pose can be therapeutic for
alleviating mild back discomfort and fatigue.
Contraindications:
1. Back Issues: Individuals with severe back injuries or herniated
discs should avoid or modify this pose.
2. Pregnancy: Pregnant women should practice Bhujangasana with
caution, and it may be more suitable to perform a gentler
variation.
3. Wrist Problems: People with wrist issues may need to modify the
pose or use props to alleviate pressure on the wrists.
4. Recent Abdominal Surgery: Those with recent abdominal
surgeries should avoid deep backbends and consult with a
healthcare professional.
As with any yoga pose, it's essential to practice Bhujangasana
mindfully, respecting your body's limitations, and making
modifications as needed, especially if you have specific health
considerations.
6.Paschimottanasana
Paschimottanasana, commonly known as Seated Forward Bend or
Intense Dorsal Stretch, is a seated yoga pose that involves a deep
forward fold. The name "Paschimottanasana" is derived from the
Sanskrit words "Paschima," meaning west or back of the body,
"Uttana," meaning intense stretch, and "Asana," meaning pose or
posture. This asana is often included in yoga sequences for its benefits
in stretching the spine, hamstrings, and promoting relaxation.
Procedure:
1. Start by sitting on the floor with your legs extended straight in
front of you.
2. Ensure that your spine is straight, and sit bones are grounded on
the mat.
3. Inhale as you lengthen your spine, and as you exhale, hinge at
your hips to begin folding forward.
4. Lead with your chest, and keep your back straight as long as
possible before rounding it.
5. Reach your hands toward your feet, holding onto your shins,
ankles, or feet, depending on your flexibility.
6. Keep your neck in a neutral position, and avoid straining your
neck by looking up.
7. Breathe deeply and hold the pose for a comfortable duration.
8. To release, inhale as you lengthen your spine and return to an
upright seated position.
Benefits:
1. Stretches the Spine: Paschimottanasana provides a deep stretch
along the entire length of the spine, promoting flexibility.
2. Hamstring Stretch: The forward bend targets the hamstrings,
helping to improve flexibility in the back of the thighs.
3. Calms the Nervous System: The forward folding action has a
calming effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation.
4. Stimulates Abdominal Organs: This pose stimulates the
abdominal organs, aiding in digestion and promoting internal
massage.
5. Relieves Mild Backache: Paschimottanasana can help relieve mild
back discomfort and tension.
6. Improves Posture: Regular practice of this pose contributes to
improved posture by lengthening and aligning the spine.
Contraindications:
1. Back Injuries: Individuals with severe back injuries or disc issues
should approach this pose with caution or avoid it altogether.
2. Pregnancy: Pregnant women should practice Paschimottanasana
with modifications and avoid intense forward bends, especially in
later trimesters.
3. Hamstring Injuries: Those with acute hamstring injuries may need
to modify the pose or avoid it until they have healed.
4. Digestive Issues: People with severe digestive issues or abdominal
pain should be cautious and may need to modify the pose.
As with any yoga pose, it's crucial to listen to your body, respect your
limits, and make modifications as needed, especially if you have specific
health concerns or injuries. It's also advisable to practice
Paschimottanasana under the guidance of a qualified yoga instructor,
especially if you are a beginner.
7. Matsyasana
Matsyasana, commonly known as Fish Pose, is a backbending yoga
asana that resembles the posture of a fish floating in water. The name
"Matsyasana" is derived from the Sanskrit words "Matsya," meaning
fish, and "Asana," meaning pose or posture. This pose is often practiced
to open the chest, stretch the neck and throat, and improve overall
spinal flexibility.
Procedure:
1. Start by lying on your back with your legs extended and arms by
your sides.
2. Slide your hands, palms down, underneath your hips and thighs,
with your forearms and elbows close to your body.
3. Pressing into your forearms and elbows, lift your upper body and
head off the mat.
4. Arch your back and lower the crown of your head to the floor,
creating a gentle curve in your spine.
5. Allow your chest to open, lifting it toward the ceiling, and keep
your thighs active.
6. If comfortable, you can release the head back and allow the
crown to rest on the mat, opening the throat and neck.
7. Breathe deeply and hold the pose for a comfortable duration.
8. To release, lift your head, press into your forearms, and gently
lower your upper body back to the mat.
Benefits:
1. Opens the Chest: Matsyasana deeply stretches and opens the
chest, improving lung capacity and respiratory function.
2. Stretches the Neck: The pose provides a stretch to the neck and
throat, helping to alleviate tension and stiffness.
3. Strengthens the Upper Back: Fish Pose engages the muscles of
the upper back, contributing to improved strength and posture.
4. Stimulates the Thyroid: The stretch in the neck area stimulates
the thyroid gland, which can be beneficial for the endocrine
system.
5. Relieves Tension: Matsyasana can help alleviate tension and
fatigue in the neck, shoulders, and upper back.
6. Improves Spinal Flexibility: The backward bend in Fish Pose
contributes to improved flexibility along the entire length of the
spine.
Contraindications:
1. Neck or Spinal Injuries: Individuals with neck or severe spinal
injuries should avoid or modify this pose.
2. High or Low Blood Pressure: People with high or low blood
pressure should practice Fish Pose with caution and consider
using props for support.
3. Migraines: Those prone to migraines may need to avoid lowering
the head all the way back in this pose.
4. Pregnancy: Pregnant women should practice Matsyasana with
caution and consider modifications to ensure comfort and safety.
As with any yoga pose, it's important to practice Matsyasana mindfully,
respecting your body's limitations, and making modifications as
needed, especially if you have specific health considerations or injuries.
Consult with a yoga instructor or healthcare professional for guidance,
especially if you are a beginner.
SENIOR CITIZENS FITNESS TEST
The Senior Fitness Test was developed at Fullerton University, by Dr.
Roberta Rikli and Dr. Jessie Jones. As such, the test is sometimes known
as the Fullerton Functional Test. It is a simple, easy-to-use battery of
test items that assess the functional fitness of older adults. The test
describes easy to understand and effective tests to measure aerobic
fitness, strength and flexibility using minimal& inexpensive equipment.
The individual fitness test items involve common activities such as
getting up from a chair, walking, lifting, bending, & stretching. The tests
were developed to be safe & enjoyable for older adults, while still
meeting scientific standards for reliability & validity.
Test Content:
The test consists of the following items:
1. Chair Stand Test:
To test lower body strength.
2. Arm Curl Test:
To test upper body strength.
3. Chair Sit-and-Reach Test:
To test lower body flexibility.
4. Back Scratch Test:
To test upper body flexibility.
Procedure:
i. Your test partner will tell you when to begin and will time you
for 30seconds, using the stopwatch or a watch with a second
hand. Do as many curls as you can in the allotted 30‐second
time period, moving in a controlled manner.
ii. Remember to do a Full Curl, squeezing your lower arm against
your upper arm at the top of each curl and returning to a
straight arm each time. Keep your upper arm still.
iii. Do not swing the weight.
iv. If you have started raising the weight again and are over
halfway up when time is called, you may count that curl!
Scoring:
The score is the total number of arm curls performed within the given
30seconds duration.
The game developed in British India from the earlier game of battledore
and shuttlecock. European play came to be dominated by Denmark but
the game has become very popular in Asia, with recent competitions
dominated by China. In 1992, badminton debuted as a Summer
Olympic sport with four events: men's singles, women's singles, men's
doubles, and women's doubles;mixed doubles was added four years
later. At high levels of play, the sport demands excellent fitness: players
require aerobic stamina, agility, strength, speed, and precision. It is also
a technical sport, requiring good motor coordination and the
development of sophisticated racquet movements.
History
The game originally developed in India among the British expatriates,
where it was very popular by the 1870s. Ball badminton, a form of the
game played with a wool ball instead of a shuttlecock, was being played
in Thanjavur as early as the 1850s and was at first played
interchangeably with badminton by the British, the woollen ball being
preferred in windy or wet weather.
Early on, the game was also known as Poona or Poonah after the
garrison town of Poona, where it was particularly popular and where
the first rules for the game were drawn up in 1873.By 1875, officers
returning home had started a badminton club in Folkestone. Initially,
the sport was played with sides ranging from 1 to 4 players, but it was
quickly established that games between two or four competitors
worked the best. The shuttlecocks were coated with India rubber and,
in outdoor play, sometimes weighted with lead.Although the depth of
the net was of no consequence, it was preferred that it should reach
the ground.
The sport was played under the Pune rules until 1887, when J. H. E.
Hart of the Bath Badminton Club drew up revised regulations. In 1890,
Hart and Bagnel Wild again revised the rules. The Badminton
Association of England (BAE) published these rules in 1893 and officially
launched the sport at a house called "Dunbar"in Portsmouth on 13
September. The BAE started the first badminton competition, the All
England Open Badminton Championships for gentlemen's doubles,
ladies' doubles, and mixed doubles, in 1899. Singles competitions were
added in 1900 and an England–Ireland championship match appeared
in 1904.
Equipment:
Badminton rackets
There are a wide variety of rackets available which can seem a little
overwhelming if you are new to the sport. But purchasing your racket
needn’t be a daunting task.
As with any sporting equipment the prices range wildly so the best
advice is to pick one you can afford and that suits your level. If you are
starting out, it is not really necessary to go for a pro model, go for a
lightweight one as they are more suitable for beginners.
You will also need to consider your style when choosing a racket. Are
you player who focuses more on power or control in their game?
Rackets are designed with different characteristics for different styles of
play, so bear this in mind when making your purchase. The weight of
the racket is also something that should be considered. Heavy rackets
are considered power rackets as it will give you more force behind your
shot. Lighter rackets offer better control and allow you to more easily
place shots around the court- therefore may be a better choice for
beginners. A flexible racket is the best choice for beginners as it is
easier to control.
Shuttlecocks
When picking a shuttlecock— you have two choices: those made of
authentic feathers and those made of nylon. Not surprisingly the
feather ones are more expensive and are considered to be superior but
they don’t last as long as the less expensive ones. So when starting out
the nylon versions are your best bet.
Badminton sets
Although getting involved in badminton requires minimal equipment,
you may want to start with a friendly knock up. If you have enough
space, many manufacturers make sets that include the net, racket and
shuttlecocks for you to get started with.
Rules
Player must wait until his opponent is ready before serving. If the
opponent attempts a return then he is ruled having been ready.
The feet of both players must remain in a stationary position until
the serve is made. Your feet can not be touching the line at this
time.
It is not a fault if you miss the shuttle while serving.
The shuttle cannot be caught and slung with the racket.
A player cannot hold his racket near the net to ward off a
downward stroke by his opponent or to interfere with his racket.
Faults
The shuttle, at the instant of being hit is higher than the servers
waist or the head of the racket is higher than the servers racket
hand.
The shuttle does not land in the correct service court.
The server's feet are not in the service court or if the feet of the
receiver are not in the court diagonally opposite the server.
The server steps forward as he/she serves.
Any player balking or feinting his opponent before serve or during
serve.
A serve or shot that lands outside the court boundaries, passes
under or through the net, touches any other obstructions or a
players body or clothing. The boundary and service lines are
considered in play.
The shuttle in play is struck before it crosses the net to the
striker's side of the net. You may follow through over the net.
A player touching the net or its supports with his body or racket
while the shuttle is in play.
Hitting the shuttle twice in succession by a player or team.
Scoring System
A match consists of the best of 3 games of 21 points.
Every time there is a serve – there is a point scored.
The side winning a rally adds a point to its score.
At 20 all, the side which gains a 2 point lead first, wins that game.
At 29 all, the side scoring the 30th point, wins that game.
The side winning a game serves first in the next game.
Strategies
1. Singles
Make opponent move quickly by using different shots
Make shots to the corners
After making a shot, always come back to the center of the court
Make quick decisions (what kind of shot you are going to make
and where to hit the birdie)
Change the pace regularly but unexpectedly
Overhead strokes must look the same
Long and deep serves work better
2. Doubles
Short serves are better
Target the space between opponents
When receiving, play aggressively toward the net
Should switch quickly from defense to offense and from offense
to defense
When attacking, adopt a formation with one player in the front
part of the court, and the other player towards the rear part of
the court
When defending, adopt a side-by-side formation in order to cover
the full width of the doubles court.
Notable Players
Taufik Hidayat (Indonesia)
Taufik Hidayat who is a retired badminton player from Indonesia, holds
the record for winning the Indonesian Open six times (in 1999, 2000,
2002, 2003, 2004, and 2006). In the men's singles badminton event of
the 2004 Summer Olympics, he secured his inaugural Olympic gold
medal. Furthermore, in August 2005, he emerged victorious in the
men's singles competition at the IBF World Championships.
Lee Chong Wei (Malaysia)
Lee Chong Wei is a former professional badminton player from
Malaysia. He is considered one of the greatest badminton players of all
time, having won numerous international titles and achieving the world
number one ranking for a record 199 consecutive weeks.
Lin Dan (China)
Lin Dan is a professional badminton player on the Chinese national
team. Sports fans and critics consider him the greatest singles player of
all time. He is known as a badminton player with above-average
technique and a champion's mentality.
Akane Yamaguchi (Japan)
Many believe that Yamaguchi, a teenage prodigy from Japan, has what
it takes to become a top-tier women's singles badminton player in the
future. When she was 16 years old, Yamaguchi made history by
becoming the youngest player ever to win a BWF Super Series
tournament after defeating Shizuka Uchida in the 2013 Japan Super
Series final.
Viktor Axelsen (Denmark)
This Danish badminton star has placed himself at the top of the world's
rankings. The 29-year-old made a big splash at the 2010 World Junior
Championships when he won the title and became the first European to
do so.
Conclusion
Badminton is a racket sport played by either two opposing players-
singles or two opposing pairs-doubles, who take positions on opposite
halves of a rectangular court that is divided by a net. Players score
points by striking a shuttlecock with their racket so that it passes over
the net and lands in their opponents' half of the court. A rally ends once
the shuttlecock has struck the ground, and the shuttlecock may only be
struck once by each side before it passes over the net. It is a popular
game throughout the world and can be played by people belonging to
almost all age groups. It also helps in boosting the health of people and
maintaining fitness. This sport is very beneficial for improving health
and concentration and is loved all over the globe