Badminton remains one of the most popular sports in the world and the most popular racket sport in the UK, with campaigns to increase participation, providing enhanced opportunities for you to go sign up at your local badminton club. I have been lucky enough to have been involved in sport for what is approaching fifteen years, and have been a member of a badminton club for the last three years. Come along with me and see why you should jump smash aboard the badminton bandwagon.
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1. Great Way to Socialize
I remember the nerves I felt when I joined a badminton club for the first time. Is there anything quite as daunting when you go along to a new environment for the first time not knowing anybody? However I remember vividly the laid-back atmosphere and the way in which the members were friendly, welcoming and made sure I felt right at home. Despite finding the net more frequently than a successful fisherman, my doubles partner kept smiling and continued to encourage me. In time you create everlasting friendships and meet some wonderful people whose company you will enjoy on and off the court.
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Joining a badminton club isn't just about the sport – it's an investment in your social life. As you meet regularly for games, casual banter and shared experiences lead to deep connections. Even outside the club, you'll find yourself making plans with these new friends. Whether it's catching up over coffee or supporting each other during tournaments, the camaraderie extends well beyond the court. Badminton becomes more than a hobby; it's a conduit to a vibrant social network, replete with laughter, support, and a sense of belonging.
2. Fastest Racquet Sport in the World
Many people imagine tennis or squash to be the fastest racquet sport in the world. However if you are lucky enough to view the elite of badminton close-up, you will soon realise that a shuttlecock can travel at remarkable speeds which eclipse the two sports I mentioned previously. The fastest recorded smash in badminton is a mind-boggling 414 kilometres an hour which reflects the breathtaking speed and incredible reflexes that the cream of the crop must possess. Prepare to be amazed.
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When you compare this to the pace of a tennis or squash ball, the difference is stark. Tennis serves can reach speeds up to 252 km/h, which, while still impressive, doesn’t come close to badminton’s shuttlecock. Similarly, squash balls, despite their fast volleys, peak at lower speeds due to the smaller court and heavier ball. Badminton's velocity is not just thrilling; it enhances your reaction time, agility, and cardiovascular health. So, if you're seeking both excitement and a workout, stepping onto a badminton court could be the perfect way to energize your routine.
Frequently asked questions
Joining a badminton club is a fantastic way to stay active, make new friends, and improve your skills. Plus, it’s a lot more fun to play with others than to go at it solo!
You can start by searching online for local badminton clubs or asking around in your community. Sometimes gyms or community centers have clubs or can point you in the right direction!
Absolutely! Badminton is great for both cardio and muscle endurance. It keeps you moving and helps improve agility, reflexes, and coordination.
Nope! Most clubs welcome players of all skill levels. It’s all about having fun and improving together. Everyone started as a beginner at some point.
You usually just need some basic gear like a racket, comfortable sportswear, and non-marking shoes. The club might have extra equipment you can borrow, so don’t stress!
3. Low Costs
Treat yourself to a racket and you are well on the way to becoming an all-court demon. Your club will provide shuttlecocks on a weekly basis as well as ensuring the courts are booked on a specific day for club use only. In time you can even treat yourself to a pair of badminton-purpose trainers. Add on top your membership/playing fees and you will still be engaging in an activity far more accessible than other sports such as golf or tennis.
4. Variety of Options Available
Most badminton clubs cater for all types of players. It often does not matter about your standard of play. What matters is that you enjoy playing and most clubs will give you the chance to join on a casual basis or as a player who would like to be considered for selection in competitive matches against other badminton clubs. Choice is everything in sport and badminton is one of the most accessible sports out there.
5. Improve Many Aspects of Your Fitness
Badminton is a sport which is extremely demanding on the body, but playing on a regular basis will test and improve many components of your fitness. Dramatic changes in direction require you to be extremely agile and the dynamic movement patterns associated with the sport will develop your explosive strength and power. The unpredictable flight of the shuttle and the long, gruelling rallies will improve your physical condition in no time.
6. Something to Look Forward to at the Start of the Week
Most of us wake up from the weekend to the dreaded tones of the Monday morning blues. However it is so satisfying when you check your calendar and see the words ‘badminton club night’ pencilled in. Isn’t it such a wonderful feeling when you have a regular place or club to attend which puts you in a fabulous mood? In no time at all you will have developed friendships with fellow members and feel your game starting to improve. Before you know it, you will be telling everyone at work that club night cannot come round soon enough.
7. It’s Enjoyable
Playing badminton is a pleasurable experience. I cannot help but smile when I am involved in a rally that is destined not to end. Whilst off-court you will have ample time to laugh and joke with fellow members. So what are you waiting for?
To sum it up, joining a badminton club will give you happiness and satisfaction. Step onto court and go and have some fun. I can guarantee that you will have a smashing time. What type of club do you recommend others should join?
Comments
Gosave:
hwannie: and the picture isssss. tennis. anyways, i'm offended you even posted this picture for this article. badminton and tennis are two different things. if you're promoting a tennis racquet instead of a badminton racquet, you're gonna find yourself with a lawsuit. LOL. using a tennis racquet can easily cause you to hurt your wrist.
Kaitlin: Well as a tennis player this is an insulting cover picture.
Patricia: Lol that's a tennis pic
Smyy: That's a tennis player my dear
Ez: That's Ana ivanovic
Gosave: Nice sport
Winnie: That looks like a tennis racket
Julie: That's hella not a badminton racquet...
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