While sports participation in general has declined in recent years, badminton's popularity has grown. It now has some 4 million participants.
“These figures reveal that badminton is a mass participation sport across England,” said Badminton England chief executive Adrian Christy. “We are going against the trend.”
Badminton is easy to learn. Most players quickly acquire sufficient skill to hit the shuttlecock over the net and play a rally with a friend.
The shuttlecock is designed so that it will slow down and float in the air. For this reason, badminton is best played inside as the wind can have quite an impact on the shuttlecock's course.
Badminton rackets are light, which means it’s an ideal sport for younger children.
These elements combine to make badminton a social and accessible sport, regardless of the player's age or ability.
Health benefits
Badminton can be an energetic or light workout, depending on how you play it. Either way, the entire body is used due to the large range of movement the sport demands, including leaps, lunges, twists, turns and stretches.
Regardless of the level, players experience improved balance and co-ordination. Injecting a little extra effort into the game can boost upper body strength, core stability and stamina.
The flight of a shuttle and the contact from the racket can be unpredictable, so freedom of movement is important.
The range of strokes stretch muscles, from the shoulder and arms through to the abdomen and down the legs.
With over 2,000 clubs around Britain, there are plenty of opportunities to join a network of like-minded people. For the less committed, pay-and-play sessions are popular.
“Badminton is alive and kicking in England,” says Adrian. "Our game is growing as a sport for all. Our popularity with children is building a large base of players from which we aim to produce future champions.”
