By Justin Ma, 7x US Junior National Badminton Champion.
Last updated December 29, 2021
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4 min read
There are a handful of different shots you can take and techniques to try when playing a game of badminton. Yet not many of these abilities have the same effect as a drop shot. While they need to be executed well, they can easily win you some points in a match if done correctly.
While beginner players are more than welcome to try the drop shot, this move does require some practice and skill. It is typically seen among more advanced to intermediate players. Read on to learn more about this deceptive, point-winning shot.
A drop shot is more of a ploy to bring your opponents towards the net while playing. This allows you to have better access to the backcourt and midcourt without worrying about them trying to smash the hit back.
To execute this shot well, you will need a strong racket that can support enough force when located in the mid-region. Different rackets have different focal points for the force, which allow various types of swings and hits to be more effective while receiving less backlash.
It is also a versatile shot since the move can be performed on the backhand or forehand side. This allows it to be even trickier for your opponent as you have more options for playing it, making them guess more.Players can attempt a slow or fast drop shot, each having a different effect and desired outcome. Regardless of whether you draw your opponent to the frontcourt or the midcourt, however, the goal of winning the point remains the same.
This type of drop shot is intended to fall in the frontcourt area. The closer it lands to the net on their side, the better. It forces your opponent to race up the court to return the hit. These actions cause the return hit to be weaker than normal, reaching only midcourt on your side.
In return, this allows you to return the hit with enough force and surprise to win the point hopefully. At this point, the hit becomes more of a badminton smash or clear to finish the hit. Due to the slow pace and need to run to the shot, your opponent is caught off guard, and it allows you to sneak in a point when done correctly.
This type of drop shot has a similar approach and response as a slow drop shot. Yet, a fast drop shot is intended to fall in the midcourt area. It is even better if you can get it to land off to the sides. You hit the shuttlecock in front of your body, allowing you to get a quicker speed at a shallow trajectory.
Again, catching your opponent off guard and off-balance results in them having little to no time to respond. This results in a mediocre return, allowing you to smash the shuttlecock back at them.
Known as being a more approachable type of drop shot, most can perform well with little to no practice needed. The overall action is compared to that of throwing a baseball or softball around.
When attempting this type of drop shot, you should utilize a forehand grip as it will allow you to achieve the motions needed. Putting most of your weight on your back feet and locking your wrist when getting ready to swing will enable you to get the necessary force and speed.
The shuttlecock should be hit as high as possible while keeping it in front of your body, as this provides the needed trajectory. This, along with the speed provided from your position, should allow you to receive the desired outcome.
Remember to keep your elbow straight as you connect with the shuttle and that the angle of your racket will decide on the direction of your hit. Shifting your weight from your rear feet to your front and following through will enable you to finish the shot. It should allow a reaction like a slow drop shot, just with a forehand grip and motion.
This type of drop shot becomes a bit trickier for those who may be less experienced players. Most use this type of shot when there are no other options to use a forehand hit. Still, players enjoy the challenge of attempting this shot, and it can help win you the point when needed.
As expected, you begin this shot by adopting the backhand grip while keeping your back facing the net. Without the proper positioning, the shot will not be practical or useful to you. The racket’s head should be pointed downwards towards the floor while your elbow and arm are kept close to your side.
Be sure to contact the shuttle as high as you can access it in front of your body, which will enable the shot to get the speed and hit you are aiming for in this situation. Again, the direction of the racket will determine where your shot will land.
Our final type of drop shot is known as the “around the head” shot. This one utilizes a forehand grip and is played at the side of your body
without the racket. The significant difference here is that you will want to stand to the net with your body bent sideways to enable your side without the racket to be used.
The actions followed are like the other types of drops shot techniques, yet this one quite literally goes around your head. As your arm comes forward, your forearm will touch your head due to the wide radius of this type of drop shot.
Now that we have covered the different types of drop shots and what makes each one different, you are better equipped to try one out the next time you step onto the court. Some, as we mentioned, are more beginner-friendly, but the more advanced drop shots may take a bit more time and effort to learn.
Make sure to check out our YouTube channel if you want to learn more about how to improve your drop shot techniques and overall badminton game!
