Why Is a Good Badminton Serve Essential?

A strong serve is crucial in badminton, as a weak serve may give your opponent the chance to perform an aggressive return. By mastering a good serve, you reduce the risk of losing a point right after your serve.

The High Badminton Serve

The high serve is generally used when you want the shuttle to land at the back of your opponent’s court. In a well-executed high serve, the shuttle drops steeply at the rear of the court, making it harder for your opponent to hit a powerful smash. Instead, they’re more likely to return with a lob or a drop shot. Aim for your opponent’s backhand side to challenge their weaker hand, which can increase the likelihood of a weak return.

How to Execute the High Serve:

1. Hold the shuttlecock with the head pointing downward so it will fall straight down when released.
2. Stand sideways, facing your body toward the net, and relax your racquet arm.
3. Let go of the shuttlecock, swing your racquet arm upwards, and twist your waist so you face the net.
4. Flick your wrist upwards in the direction you want the shuttle to land, letting your back leg lift naturally.

The high serve works well against opponents who struggle with smashes from the back court. However, if your opponent can perform strong smashes, especially if they’re tall and can do jump smashes, consider switching to a low serve. Observing your opponent’s style can help you choose the right serve.

The Low Badminton Serve

The low serve is best when you want the shuttlecock to land close to the net in front of your opponent. A well-placed low serve just clears the net, which limits your opponent’s options for aggressive shots, as they won’t be able to perform a smash effectively.

How to Execute the Low Serve:

1. Hold the shuttlecock’s feathers, keeping the head facing down.
2. Position the racquet behind the shuttlecock.
3. Step slightly forward with your dominant foot.
4. As you release the shuttle, lightly flick your racquet while pressing your thumb forward to guide the shuttlecock. The power mainly comes from the thumb’s push and a slight wrist flick.

The Flick Serve (or "Fake" Low Serve)

The flick serve is a deceptive variation that makes it appear like you’re preparing a low serve but instead sends the shuttle to the back of the court. When in a low serve position, push your thumb and flick your wrist more forcefully to achieve the height and distance of a high serve.

Learning these serves is only the beginning. Practicing them consistently will help you develop control and accuracy, enabling you to serve effectively and confidently during your games.