A man performing a jumping smash airborne

This is a comprehensive guide on the different types of smashes in badminton.

The information given in this article will help you improve your game, add points to your score tally, and win matches against professional players.

Without further ado, let’s jump into it.

Key Takeaways:

  • There are three main types of badminton smash — forehand smash, backhand smash, and jumping smash.
  • The forehand smash is the one most players prefer because it’s much easier to execute than the other types.
  • A backhand smash should only be turned to once you’re entirely sure that you know how to execute it properly.
  • The jumping smash can be your weapon of choice to obtain maximum power from your smash.

1. Forehand Smash

A forehand smash is the one in which a player uses all their power to hit the shuttlecock downwards.

If executed correctly, a forehand badminton smash can be one of the most difficult shots for your opponent to return.

But even if they could somehow manage a return, it would most likely be tame, giving you all the time in the world to end the rally and win a point.

For this reason, if you’re serious about improving your performance on the court, learning how to make a forehand smash should be on top of your to-do list.

How to Forehand Smash in Badminton

  1. Start by raising your non-racket hand. Make sure it is above your chin before you perform the smash.
  2. Shift your entire weight on your back foot. Doing this will allow you to a) maintain your balance while playing the smash and b) make sure you smash the shuttlecock at a downward angle.
  3. Just as the shuttlecock is right above your head, extend your elbows and swing the racket with as much force as you can muster. While doing this, you should maintain a forehand grip over the racket, and your knees should be slightly bent.

2. Backhand Smash

A backhand smash can be a tricky shot to execute, especially for beginners who are still learning the basic skills of badminton.

Yet, if you know how to pick the perfect moment for a backhand smash and have the know-how to execute it properly, it can be as tough to pick for the opponent as a forehand smash.

In fact, in certain cases, a backhand smash can be more effective, given that not many players don’t expect their opponent to execute it at all. As a result, if you can play it to perfection, a backhand smash might let you catch your opposing player off-guard.

That said, you should only opt for it when forehand smash is not an option, and after you have spent hours practicing it in training. That’s because a weak or poorly executed backhand smash will be a cinch to return for your opponent.

How to Backhand Smash in Badminton

  1. First of all, make sure that your body is in the correct position. This means your face facing the backend of the court, with your back facing the net. At the same time, you should be on your toes.
  2. Switch to the backhand grip on your racket. This is the grip when the backside of your hand is facing the net.
  3. Keep your racket arm as close to the body as possible. This is necessary to impart maximum power and swing to the smash.
  4. Commence the backhand swing motion and hit the shuttlecock at the highest point possible with a powerful flick of your wrist. Both the speed of your swing motion and how powerfully you can flick your wrist will determine the speed and angle of the smash.
  5. After you have hit the shuttle, follow through to complete the backhand swing. At this moment, there is a risk that you’ll lose body balance. To prevent this unwanted scenario, use your non-racket hand to steady yourself.
  6. Once you have completed the backhand swing and have regained your body balance, quickly turn around to face the opponent.

3. Jumping Smash

A jumping smash is precisely what its name implies – you jump a few feet off the ground and hit the shuttlecock with the intention of tearing it apart.

If executed to perfection, a jumping smash may very likely win you the point, and psychologically it warns your opponent of your strength.

That said, if your physical fitness isn’t at 100%, a few jumping smashes can derail your energy levels before the game is over.

For this reason, it’s recommended to try out this smash only when your fitness is at its highest level and when you have practiced a lot in training.

How to Jumping Smash in Badminton

  1. Use your racket foot to jump as high as you need, with your non-racket arm stretching outwards for balance.
  2. While you’re jumping, make sure to bend both your knees slightly. Doing this will add a few inches to your flight.
  3. Once you are airborne and the shuttlecock is there for the hit, smash it with full force. Keep your racket slightly tilted so that the shuttlecock, once it’s hit, goes down and not far.
  4. After playing the shot, try to land on your toes. This will ensure that the jump and the subsequent landing are less cruel on your feet and ankles.
  5. While landing, keep your racket foot ahead to keep the balance and immediately prepare for a possible return shot.

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