Badminton · Guide
Badminton grips explained
How you hold the racket decides how much power and control you have. Two grips cover almost everything: the forehand and the backhand, and the key to both is to hold loosely.
The forehand grip
- Hold the racket by the throat with your other hand, the face edge-on to the floor.
- "Shake hands" with the handle, so a V forms between your thumb and index finger along the top edge.
- Hold it mainly with your fingers, with a small gap between the handle and your palm.
Used for overhead shots, forehand shots and most serves.
The backhand grip
- From the forehand grip, turn the racket slightly.
- Place the pad of your thumb flat on the wide back bevel of the handle.
The thumb gives you leverage for backhand clears, drives and net shots.
Common mistakes
- The "frying pan" grip: holding the racket with the face flat to the floor. It feels natural but kills your power and makes backhands almost impossible.
- Squeezing: a tight grip slows the racket. Relax, and tighten only at impact.
- Never changing grip: good players switch between forehand and backhand grips constantly, with a quick twist of the fingers.
Next: the six key shots.
Quick answers
- How do you hold a badminton racket?
- With the forehand grip: hold it as if shaking hands with it, with the racket face edge-on to the floor, loosely in the fingers rather than clenched in the palm.
- What is the backhand grip in badminton?
- Turn the racket slightly and press your thumb flat against the wide back bevel of the handle, which gives you leverage for backhand shots.
- Should I grip the racket tightly?
- No. Hold it loosely and tighten only at the moment of hitting. A relaxed grip gives more wrist and finger speed.