Underarm and overhead clears to maintain a rally
I can keep a rally going with good body positioning.
- Year 8
Underarm and overhead clears to maintain a rally
I can keep a rally going with good body positioning.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Move: being on the balls of your feet will reduce reaction time when moving under the shuttle to return shots.
- Move: a smooth swing with a firm wrist and partially flexed elbow improves consistency of underarm and backhand shots.
- Think: overhead forehands are easier to hit by getting under the shuttle whenever possible.
- Feel: achieving a long rally requires internal drive and commitment.
- Connect: working together to achieve success requires good communication.
Keywords
Overhead clear - a defensive shot played by making contact above your head and hitting high to the back of your opponent's court
Underarm clear - hitting the shuttle from below waist height and aiming up high towards the back of your opponent's court
Open racket face - angling the racket strings slightly upwards to play defensive rallying shots
Common misconception
Pupils hold the racket like a frying pan and squat lower and lower to hit overhead clears.
A shake hand grip and sideways stance is required to get power and accuracy into shots, but you also need to know when it is necessary to hit underarm rather than trying to hit everything above the head.
Equipment
1 badminton racket per pupil; at least 1 shuttlecock each; posts, nets and floor markers
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - physical activity
Supervision
Adult supervision required
