Biomechanics Applied While Playing Badminton

Badminton is a racquet sport played by two or four individuals and features every match with rapid short-duration actions. History Of Badminton Having launched in India in the late 19th century at the time of British colonialism, badminton has evolved into a game that calls for excellence in technical, tactical, physical and mental arenas for elite-level performance. In the past two decades, application of sports science has revolutionized the development of performance in international badminton competitions. How Badminton And Biomechanics Are Related? Badminton has thus played a vital role in the science of understanding and improving performance in sports, especially through biomechanics-the science of human motion. It is believed to be one of the best methods for the understanding of the athlete’s technique of performance so that it would be enhanced as much as one could increase the former and minimize the latter. For instance, in badminton, optimization of the execution of the stroke helps one to understand the endurance demands and to enhance general fitness. Badminton Power Strokes Biomechanics The field of study has entailed a tremendous shift from the past views founded on a better knowledge regarding the biomechanics of power strokes in badminton. The early researchers suggested that the strokes, particularly the power strokes, were initiated by the wrist snap, however, the recent biomechanical studies have negated the above scenario. It has been seen in different studies that forearm rotation plays a significant role in the generation of power and contributions arise from the movement of the radioulnar pronation, elbow extension, and ulnar deviation at the wrist. More research on this topic went further to quantify the contribution of various joints toward shuttle velocity during the smash stroke. Shoulder rotation and radioulnar pronation are significant contributors, with a contribution toward the shuttle speed of 53%. This finding established a drastic deviation from the traditional emphasis in stroke mechanics that focused around the wrist. It has been discovered that world-class players take enormous amounts of power in the underarm forehand and clear serve by pronating the forearm and rotating the upper arm medially while backhand clears are dependent on forearm supination and upper arm lateral rotation. Although the contribution of wrist motion has been reduced, further research is needed to determine the muscle groups that contribute to the power of these shots. Biomechanics Applied During Forehand Overhead Jump Smash The forehand overhead jump smash is one of the most important and aggressive strokes in badminton. Research on this stroke revealed that higher elbow angular velocity is correlated with higher shutter speeds during a jump smash. The timing of muscle activity is also important for the optimal performance of a smash. Studies on the temporal-spatial relationship between muscle activity and the execution of the smash have indicated that the control of distal muscles in the upper limb is critical for accuracy and speed. Comparative studies on forehand and backhand strokes have pointed out key biomechanical differences in angular velocities and muscle activation. Skilled players have been reported to produce very high angular velocities in the actions of glenohumeral external rotation, elbow supination, and wrist extension when playing a backhand stroke. The relative difference was lesser in the forehand stroke. This would therefore indicate the fact that although players often tend to play the forehand stroke more often, players put much focus into developing their backhand throughout their careers. A comprehensive analysis of surface EMG activity shows that a jump smash requires greater EMG activation prior to the shuttle contact than a regular smash to ensure that muscle activation is achieved before impact to attain high shuttle velocities. Biomechanics Applied During The Backhand Overhead Strokes Among these backhand overhead strokes, such as smash, clear and drop shot, biomechanical studies of smash have advanced the understanding of stroke execution. Recent researches have proved the extension of angle of the shoulders and angular acceleration of the wrists during the initial phase of a given stroke can provide greater shuttle speeds. These suggestions are of critical importance for competitors interested in their backhand overhead strokes and technique to perform better. Biomechanics Applied During The Forehand Serves The biomechanical analyses of the forehand serves have also been done on the comparisons between the long and short serves. It was found that there were three principal variables, namely: elbow angle, shuttle height at contact, and shuttle trajectory after launch. All these differences are important since they relate to how max height is achieved at which the shuttle travels and hence the effectiveness of the serve. For instance, the biomechanical variables, such as elbow angle and shuttle height, form the basis on which players base their strategic planning in service techniques. Biomechanics During General Endurance And Fitness In Badminton General endurance and physical fitness are essential to badminton performance. It has been noted that muscular endurance and explosive muscle strength are essential, particularly in the lower body. Research done on the strength of the knee extensor (quadriceps) and flexor (hamstrings) indicates that lower extremity musculature is critical in providing for the quick, forceful movements necessary throughout a match. Maximally developing strength and explosive strength through isometric muscle contractions are critical in producing powerful movements and recovery between points. Intermittent A badminton match imposes high demands on both the aerobic and anaerobic energy systems. Research has indicated that 60-70% of energy for a match is derived from the aerobic system and 30% anaerobically metabolized. The alactic anaerobic metabolism pathway is more prominent in the context of high-intensity explosions; here, explosive strength and fast recovery are of utmost value. Biomechanics is one area of sports science that can give unique insights into optimal performance. Its application in this sport can make it possible for athletes and coaches to optimize stroke mechanics, from power strokes through the forehand overhead jump smash, backhand strokes, to serves. Also, knowledge in the demands of general endurance and fitness-the biomechanics experience-would be a basis for building the physical capacity needed to perform at the elite level by athletes. As research in sports
Uttarakhand’s Badminton Stars Rise to the Occasion with Key Victories on Day 1

The opening day of the 38th National Games Badminton Championship saw an intense battles across both men’s and women’s team competitions. The Multi-Purpose Hall at Parade Ground in Dehradun witnessed hard-fought duels as the country’s top badminton players showcased their skills on the national stage. In Men’s Group B, Arunachal Pradesh faced Rajasthan in a highly competitive match but ultimately fell 1-4. Rajasthan displayed dominant play, winning crucial doubles rubbers and securing victories across the singles to seal the win. Arunachal Pradesh showed flashes of promise but couldn’t get the crucial points when needed. Meanwhile, in Women’s Group B, the host state Uttarakhand delivered a strong performance, edging out Gujarat 3-2 in a hard-fought contest. The match was a rollercoaster, with both teams battling for supremacy throughout. The final doubles rubber saw the host team clinch the win, riding on the crowd’s energy and their player’s resilience. In the second half of the day, the Men’s Group A saw Karnataka get stunned by Services, who secured a narrow 3-2 victory. Karnataka’s Nitin and others were unable to capitalize on early opportunities, and Services displayed tactical brilliance in their doubles rubbers, which ultimately decided the match. Karnataka fought hard, but Services’ depth proved too strong. The Women’s Group A competition saw Assam face off against Haryana in what turned out to be a dominant 4-1 victory for Haryana. Anmol Kharb and her teammates controlled the match, with Anmol’s standout singles and doubles wins playing a key role in their success. As the second half of the day unfolded, Chhattisgarh came through with a solid 3-2 win over Rajasthan in Men’s Group B. The match had plenty of twists and turns, but Chhattisgarh’s focused team play and strong doubles efforts ensured they came out on top. In the Women’s Group B category, the host state Uttarakhand was back in action against Karnataka in a gripping encounter. Despite a valiant performance from Karnataka, the host state claimed a narrow 3-2 victory, with crucial wins in both singles and doubles to secure their second win of the day. With Day 1 complete, the 38th National Games Badminton Championship has already lived up to its promise of excitement and surprise. Several key teams have set the tone for the tournament, but with so much badminton left to play, the competition is only heating up. The host state Uttarakhand, despite some close calls, looks poised to build momentum as the games progress, and the rest of the country’s top players will have their eyes on them as the championship unfolds.
BAI Announces Cash Rewards for Para Shuttlers

Indian para shuttlers have been announced cash rewards by the Badminton Association of India (BAI) as a token of appreciation over their triumph at Paris Paralympics 2024. India has won five medals in badminton. This has been its best-ever show in the Paralympics till date. For the first time, Indian women stood on the Paralympic badminton podium. Medal Winners Shine in Paris Nitesh Kumar set the tone of success by bagging a gold in the Men’s Singles SL3. Suhas Yathiraj similarly repeated his Tokyo success to win a silver in the Men’s Singles SL4 category. Indian women shuttlers won medals in the Paralympics for the first time. Thulasimathi Murugesan won silver in the Women’s Singles SU5 category, while Manisha Ramadass came in with a bronze in the same category. In the SH6 category, Nithya Sre Sivan completed the tally with a bronze. Cash Awards for Outstanding Performances State Sports Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma, who also heads the BAI as Chief Minister of Assam, announced a total cash prize of INR 50 lakh for medal winners. Nitesh Kumar bagged INR 15 lakh for gold medal. Suhas and Thulasimathi will get INR 10 lakh each as they won the silver medal. Manisha and Nithya will receive INR 7.5 lakh each for bronze medallist. The BAI assures commitment to the development of Para Badminton Secretary General Sanjay Mishra of BAI mentioned consistent performances from India’s para-badminton players at international arena. According to him, cash prizes were one of the ways BAI would pay a tribute to all such efforts by these players into India’s Paralympic success story. Mishra also said that BAI continued to work in the directions that are responsible for the growth of para-badminton, which included many means of support to the players. He added that a virtual meeting with them will be conducted in order to thank them and get to know the further support and action required for their development in the future. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Lessons From the Greatest Coaches Across Sports

Teachers’ Day isn’t just about celebrating the ones who teach in classrooms; it’s about honoring those who shape lives in every arena, especially sports. Here’s a tribute to five legendary coaches who’ve not only mastered their craft but also transformed their sports. Rahul Dravid (Cricket) In a world of flashy personalities, Rahul Dravid stands out for his quiet strength and ability to build without noise. Nicknamed ‘The Wall’ for his defense as a batter, Dravid’s coaching reflects the same grit. He’s not just training cricketers; he’s molding future leaders of Indian cricket. The world saw his brilliance as a coach during the Indian Cricket Team’s successful campaign at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, where India lifted the title under Dravid’s guidance. His lesson? “Patience builds greatness.” Behind every victory lies the hours of disciplined work he instills in his players, even when no one’s watching. Dinesh Lad (Cricket) The Dronacharya awardee, Dinesh Lad, is the mastermind behind a couple of renowned cricketing faces in India . Rohit Sharma and Shardul Thakur are household names in cricket. It was Lad’s vision and mentorship that laid their foundations. What sets him apart? He doesn’t just coach skills; he coaches resilience, teaching his players to rise from setbacks stronger. His philosophy? “Talent needs a guiding hand,” and his role as that steady hand has led to the rise of some of the best cricketers in India. José Mourinho (Football) Call him The Special One and it’s not just about his winning record—it’s about the mind games, the psychological edge and the tactical genius. José Mourinho sees football like a chess game, where every move counts and it’s all about staying ten steps ahead. What can we learn from him? “Confidence is everything.” His players don’t just play—they believe. Under Mourinho, confidence isn’t an option, it’s a requirement. His story is a lesson in self-belief and creating an unbeatable mindset. Pullela Gopichand (Badminton) Pullela Gopichand may not hog the limelight, however his academy has produced champions who do. Behind every Saina Nehwal and P.V. Sindhu is Gopichand’s pursuit of perfection. He teaches more than badminton—he teaches discipline, the fine art of never being satisfied with ‘good enough.’ His approach? “Precision is power.” Gopichand’s lessons extend beyond the game; they’re about living with intent and constantly striving for excellence. Red Auerbach (Basketball) Red Auerbach wasn’t just a coach—he was a visionary. The Boston Celtics’ rise under his leadership changed the game, both literally and figuratively. Known for lighting a victory cigar when he knew the game was won, Auerbach believed in “winning with class.” His lesson? Leadership is about empowering others. His players didn’t just play for him; they became better leaders under his watch and his legacy lives on through their success. Lessons Beyond the Scoreboard These coaches show us that sports, like life, are about more than just the final score. It’s about the discipline, the confidence, the patience and the vision we apply to everything we do. Whether you’re stepping onto a field or into a meeting room, their lessons resonate far beyond the game. On this Teachers’ Day, let’s celebrate these mentors who coach not just athletes , but champions in life. The Sportz Planet Desk,Nitya Sutrave
Paris 2024: Lakshya Sen to Face Lee Zii Jia for Bronze

Indian star badminton player Lakshya Sen will have the opportunity once again to win an Olympic medal at Paris Olympics 2024. After engaging in a nail-biter of a semifinal against the reigning Olympic champion and top seed Viktor Axelsen, Sen lost 20-22, 14-21, and now faces off in the bronze medal match against Malaysia’s Lee Zii Jia on Monday, 5th August 2024, at the Adidas Arena. Determined to Make History Even with this setback, Lakshya Sen remains keen to become the first-ever Indian men’s singles shuttler to win an Olympic badminton medal and only the third Indian overall to finish on the podium. His opponent in this event, Lee Zii Jia of Malaysia, also lost his semi-final encounter with the world champion, Kunlavut Vitidsarn of Thailand, in straight games 14-21, 15-21. Head-to-head Advantage Historically, Lakshya Sen has held sway over Lee Zii Jia with a 4-1 win-loss record between them. All matches between them have been riveting and tightly fought. Indeed, Sen went on to win their last fight in the All England Open 2024 quarterfinals in an intriguingly tightly contested match, 20-22, 21-16, 21-19. Recap of Their Last Five Meetings LAKSHYA SEN VS LEE ZII JIA- LAST FIVE MEETINGS Tournament Round Winner Score All England Open 2024 Quarterfinal Lakshya Sen 20-22, 21-16, 21-19 Indonesia Open 2023 Round of 32 Lakshya Sen 21-17, 21-13 Thomas Cup 2022 Quarterfinal Lee Zii Jia 21-23, 9-21 All England Open 2022 Semifinal Lakshya Sen 21-13, 12-21, 21-19 India International Series 2016 First Round Lakshya Sen 11-13, 11-3, 11-6, 11-6 1. India International Series (2016) Sen won that first ever clash on the junior circuit 4-0, though the format of the match was 11 points per set as opposed to the current norm. 2. All England Open 2022 Semi-Final Sen won an intense contest 21-13, 12-21, 21-19 to become the first Indian men’s singles player since Pullela Gopichand in 2001 to make it to the All England Open semi-finals. 3. Thomas Cup 2022 Quarter-Final He alone lost to Lee Zii Jia, Sen (21-23, 9-21), when he struggled with his form during the competition. 4. Indonesia Open 2023 Round of 32 Both players were struggling for form, but Sen won (21-17, 21-13). 5. All England Open 2024 Quarter-Final The exciting battle saw Sen pip Lee Zii Jia at the post (20-22, 21-16, 21-19). Looking Ahead to the Bronze Medal Match With a 4-1 head-to-head advantage over Sen, he will go into the bronze medal match at the Paris Olympics 2024 quite confidently. While Lee Zii Jia will come back hard at him and make it a great contest, the Indian shuttler will also draw confidence from the two previous victories against Lee and will come into the bronze medal match brimmed with confidence to script history for Indian badminton at the Paris Olympics 2024. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Paris 2024: The “Lakshya” Is Set For Sen As He Becomes First Indian Man to Reach Badminton Singles Olympic Semifinals

Lakshya Sen has become the first male badminton player from India to make the Olympic Games semifinals in singles. The 22-year-old lad from Almora fought hard to win against Taiwan’s Chou Tien Chen 19-21, 21-15, 21-12 at the Arena Porte de La Chapelle here on Friday. A Hard Fought Victory It was a hard-earned victory for Lakshya that clearly showed aggression and also told a tale of defensive skills. The opening game was won by Chou, who held Lakshya at the edge through his variety of pace and cleverly disguised trick shots. The never-give-up attitude was there as he continued to slog and hang in despite the loss in his opening game. Second Game: A Turning Point The second game turned out to be a turning point. At 7-7 came one of the most disputed moments of the match, as Chou drilled one drive that seemed to drop on the backline, but Lakshya challenged, and no review was shown on the big screen; with the umpire now awarding the point to Chou because of her personal monitor, leaving Lakshya frustrated. But his coach and former All England champion, Prakash Padukone, cheered him on from the sidelines, screaming, “Josh dikhao, josh dikhao.“ Reclaiming the Initiative A revitalized Lakshya clawed his way back into the contest, showing great endurance and agility. He pulled off a brilliant no-look retrieve at 11-all, leaving Chou in a manner of speaking, surprised as he erred. Thereafter, Lakshya took charge with Chou’s rising errors taking the second game. Youth and Energy Prove Decisive The final game was eventually sealed by the youthful energy of Lakshya. He wouldn’t allow the pressure on Chou to relent with sharp exchanges and quick movements, all finally reaping success for him. Reflecting on the game, Chou said, “Lakshya was too fast today.” The Way Forward Lakshya, with the words “The sky is the limit” tattooed down his neck, echoed his ambitions post-match. “Feels good to become the first Indian [male] to reach the Olympic semifinals. I’m happy. But I am also very tired. Need to rest before my next match,” he said, looking ahead at the next challenge already. His historic run continues with Lakshya Sen advancing into the semifinals, and the Indian fans are now looking toward his next match for more pathbreaking displays. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Revolutionizing Sports Training with AI: The MultiSenseBadminton Dataset

Sports training relies heavily on practice, but what if athletes could learn from the techniques of professionals? Thanks to AI-based personalized coaching assistants, this dream is becoming a reality. These assistants use advanced technology, like cameras and sensors, to track every move an athlete makes during training sessions. Researchers at the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), South Korea, along with collaborators from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA, have developed a groundbreaking tool for badminton training: the MultiSenseBadminton dataset. This dataset captures the movements and physiological responses of badminton players, aiming to enhance their techniques. WHAT IS MULTISENSEBADMINTON?Inspired by MIT’s ActionSense project, which tracked everyday tasks using wearable sensors, the MultiSenseBadminton dataset focuses on improving forehand clear and backhand drive strokes. The researchers collected extensive data from 25 players with varying skill levels, using sensors to monitor joint movements, muscle signals, foot pressure, and even shuttlecock positions. Each movement was carefully analyzed and labeled based on stroke type, player skill level, shuttlecock position, impact location, and sound upon impact. This meticulous labeling ensures the dataset’s quality, making it suitable for training AI models to evaluate stroke quality and provide feedback. WHAT DO EXPERTS THINK?According to Associate Professor SeungJun Kim, this dataset can revolutionize badminton training by creating personalized motion guides for players at different skill levels. By analyzing differences in motion and sensor data, AI-generated action trajectories can offer tailored feedback to enhance players’ techniques. The data collected can also be used to enhance training through methods like haptic vibration or electrical muscle stimulation, promoting better motion and refining swing techniques. Additionally, this dataset could fuel virtual reality games or training simulations, making sports training more accessible and affordable for all. In the long run, the researchers believe that the MultiSenseBadminton dataset could promote overall well-being by making sports training more accessible to a broader audience. With AI-driven coaching assistants and advanced datasets, the future of sports training looks promising, paving the way for healthier populations and improved athletic performance. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye.