Kaela Rolaine Sasot BSN 2C BADMINTON October 23, 2023 Badminton is a popular racquet sport played indoors or outdoors by millions of people around the world. It is a fast-paced, highly skilled game that demands agility, speed, and precision. The game of badminton has a long and rich history, dating back over 2,000 years. Its origins can be traced to ancient Greece, India, and China, where games similar to badminton were played using a shuttlecock and a racket. The modern game of badminton is thought to have originated in India, where it was known as "poona". British army officers stationed in India in the 1860s were introduced to the game and brought it back to England. In 1873, the Duke of Beaufort hosted a party at his country estate, Badminton House, where he introduced the game of poona to his guests. The game was quickly adopted by the English aristocracy and became known as "badminton". The sport evolved further when the Bath Badminton Club was founded in 1877. This club developed the first official rules of the game, which closely resemble modern badminton. The rules included the use of a net, racquets, and a shuttlecock, and the game was played indoors. The first unofficial All-England Badminton Championships were held in 1899, and the first official championships were held in 1934. The International Badminton Federation (IBF) was founded in 1934. One of the most significant developments in badminton was its inclusion in the Summer Olympics in 1992, increasing its global visibility and popularity. The sport continues to thrive, with numerous international competitions, such as the Thomas Cup and Uber Cup, attracting top players from around the world. Badminton is now one of the most popular sports in the world, with millions of people playing it recreationally and competitively. It is especially popular in Asia, where it is one of the most watched sports on television. Facilities for Badminton 1. Indoor Courts Badminton is primarily played indoors. The dimensions of a standard badminton court are 20 feet by 44 feet (6.1 meters by 13.4 meters) for singles and 20 feet by 40 feet (6.1 meters by 12.2 meters) for doubles. The court is divided into halves by a net suspended at 5 feet (1.524 meters) high for doubles and 5.5 feet (1.68 meters) high for singles. 2. Outdoor Courts While less common, outdoor badminton courts can be found in parks and recreational areas. These courts are typically constructed with durable materials like concrete, and they may not be enclosed, which can pose challenges in windy conditions. 3. Flooring The ideal flooring for indoor courts is a sprung wooden surface. This helps reduce the impact on players' joints and provides the right level of grip for quick movements. Equipment 1. Shuttlecock The shuttlecock, or "birdie," is a key piece of equipment in badminton. It consists of a cork base with a series of feathers or a synthetic skirt. Different shuttlecocks are used for recreational play and professional competition. Professional players use shuttlecocks made with goose feathers, which offer better control and speed. 2. Racquets Badminton racquets have evolved to be lightweight and aerodynamic, allowing players to generate powerful smashes and precise shots. They are typically made from materials like carbon fiber, aluminum, or graphite. 3. Net The net divides the court into two halves and should be made of fine cord or mesh. The height of the net is set at specific measurements for singles and doubles matches. 4. Clothing Players wear comfortable clothing designed for quick movements. Appropriate footwear with non-marking soles is essential to prevent slipping on the court.