Badminton might look simple from the sidelines, but anyone who has played Badminton, even for a few months, knows it’s a game of speed, precision, and strategy. Whether you’re a casual player or looking to improve competitively, avoiding common mistakes can significantly boost your performance. Here are some of the most frequent errors players make, and how to fix them. I have also included expert-backed tips to help you elevate your game.
1. Poor Footwork
So many players, especially players who play casually and have not been for coaching, struggle with optimal footwork. Footwork is a skill that, when mastered, helps you travel around the court effortlessly and gives you opportunities to make impossible shots possible.
The mistake: Many beginners rely too much on their upper body and forget that footwork is the foundation of every good shot. Standing flat-footed or moving late often leads to weak returns.
The fix: Professional coach Peter Rasmusen emphasizes the importance of “staying on the balls of your feet” and always returning to the center (base) after each shot. Practice ladder drills and shadow footwork to improve your agility and speed.
Pro Tip: “Good footwork saves energy and buys you time,” says Rasmusen. “It’s more important than power.”
2. Holding the Racket Incorrectly
People normally pick up a racket and just use that grip. Not many people realise that there are many different grips you can use to improve your game. This gets quite in-depth because your grip pressure can also play a factor in how you perform shots.
The mistake: A tight grip or incorrect racket position can ruin your control and limit your shot variety.
The fix: Use a relaxed handshake grip for both forehand and backhand. Keep your fingers flexible and avoid squeezing the handle too hard. This gives you better control and allows faster grip changes during rallies.
Pro Tip: Olympic silver medalist Gopichand advises players to “learn proper grip early—bad habits are harder to unlearn later.”
3. Not Watching the Opponent
This may sound a bit weird because how can keeping your eye only on the shuttle be a mistake. Well many seasoned Badminton players will tell you that the key to winning easy points is hitting the shuttle where your opponent is not standing. This will come with time and experience but practicing it early can set you up for success.
The mistake: Focusing only on the shuttle often leads to predictable play and missed opportunities.
The fix: Keep your eyes on both the shuttle and your opponent. Watch their racket position, foot movement, and body language to anticipate their next move. Developing this awareness helps you react quicker and outmaneuver them.
Pro Tip: “Reading the game is half the battle,” says professional player Carolina Marin. “The best players play with their eyes, not just their rackets.”
4. Overusing the Smash
For beginners, winning a point with a smash is the best feeling ever. However, professionals and seasoned players will tell you that the smash is not a shot they use often unless the right moment comes. The reason for this is that it can tire you out and also put you out of position.
The mistake: Many players try to win every point with a powerful smash, wearing themselves out quickly and becoming predictable.
The fix: Use smashes sparingly and strategically. Mix them with drops, clears, and net shots to keep your opponent guessing. Focus on placement, not just power.
Pro Tip: Malaysian legend Lee Chong Wei says, “A smart rally wins more points than a strong smash.”
5. Weak Net Play
The net is often a place that a beginner feels scared to be close to. The reason in their head is “What if the opponent smashes the shuttle, I need time to react”. This mindset will put you often out of position. The net is a place where you can win easy points once you are comfortable there.
The mistake: Failing to control the shuttle at the net often gives opponents easy chances to kill the rally.
The fix: Practice gentle, precise net drops and develop a soft touch. Keep your racket up and be ready to pounce on any weak returns. Net play is all about finesse and reflexes.
Pro Tip: “Master the net and you control the pace of the game,” says top coach Taufik Hidayat.
6. Poor Stamina and Conditioning
Stamina and conditioning is often overlooked when it comes to casual play. However ,even with just a bit of stamina and conditioning, you will be able to dominate the late game. This means that if you are losing at the beginning of the match, towards the end you will have more energy and dominate the court.
The mistake: Fatigue sets in quickly if you lack conditioning, leading to slow movement and unforced errors.
The fix: Incorporate regular cardio, strength training, and flexibility work into your routine. Interval training and on-court drills can boost your endurance and recovery speed.
Pro Tip: “Train like you play,” says Danish star Viktor Axelsen. “If you’re fit, you’ll think clearer and move faster.”
Final Thoughts
Improving at badminton doesn’t just mean hitting harder, it means playing smarter. By fixing these common mistakes and applying the tips from top players and coaches, you’ll develop better technique, stronger strategy, and a more well-rounded game.
Whether you’re playing singles or doubles, remember: progress comes from consistent practice and mindful improvement.
