Helena Frye
Para badminton is a Paralympic sport that made its debut at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. It is governed by the Badminton World Federation (BWF), which is recognised by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) as the world governing body for the sport. Para badminton is open to athletes with physical impairments, who compete in men's and women's singles, doubles, and mixed doubles events. Players can compete standing or using a wheelchair, and are classified into six Sport Classes to ensure fairness in competition. Equipment used includes wheelchairs, which must not have any devices to assist movement, and crutches, which must not exceed the player's natural measurement from armpit to the ground. Prosthetic limbs may also be used, depending on the Sport Class.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Basic equipment | Racket and shuttlecock |
| Shuttlecock material | Plastic or feathers |
| Racket material | Aluminum, steel, graphite, or carbon fiber |
| Racket weight | Lighter rackets are preferred for more advanced players |
| Racket string | Different types of strings are available |
| Court dimensions | 44 x 20 feet |
| Net | Yes |
| Court type | Indoor |
| Game format | Best of three games |
| Number of players | Singles, doubles, or mixed doubles |
| Player stance | Standing or in wheelchairs |
| Player classification | Six classes, including two wheelchair categories, dwarfs, and three amputee categories (BKA, AKA, and above waist) |
| Wheelchair specifications | May have a rear supporting wheel; must not have electric or other devices to assist movement or steering |
| Crutch specifications | Must not exceed the player's natural measurement from the armpit to the ground |
| Prosthetic limbs | Allowed in categories SL3, SL4, and WH, but not SU5; must be the same length as the player's existing limb |
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What You'll Learn
Wheelchairs
Para-badminton is a variant of badminton for athletes with a range of physical disabilities. The Badminton World Federation (BWF) is the main governing body for para-badminton and has collaborated with RMA Sport to promote wheelchair badminton. RMA Sport manufactures specialised badminton wheelchairs, providing top-quality equipment for athletes.
Wheelchair badminton players are classified into six different classes: WH1, WH2, SL3, SL4, SU5, and SH6. Players in the WH1 class have impairments in both lower limbs and trunk function and require a wheelchair to play. WH2 players have impairments in one or both lower limbs but minimal or no impairment of the trunk, and also require a wheelchair. In the SL3 and SL4 classes, players may be lower limb amputees and are permitted to use a crutch or prosthetic limb. Prosthetic limbs are not allowed in the SU5 class.
When it comes to wheelchair equipment, safety is a key consideration. It is essential that players use sports wheelchairs with rear and front stabilisers to prevent the chair from tipping backwards. The RMA Sport Elite Pro range offers lightweight wheelchairs made from aluminium or magnesium for enhanced manoeuvrability and performance. Their Club Badminton Wheelchairs are made from robust steel, providing a cost-effective option with quick-release sports wheels and adjustable upholstery.
The BWF has specific rules regarding wheelchair equipment. Electric or other devices that assist movement or steering are not permitted. The height of the net is the same for all classes, and a half court is used for singles matches in the wheelchair and SL3 classes, while a full court is used for doubles and the SL4, SU5, and SH6 classes.
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Crutches
Para badminton is a variant of badminton for athletes with a range of physical disabilities. The Badminton World Federation (BWF) is the main governing body for para badminton. The sport aims to make badminton inclusive for everyone, ensuring that players with physical limitations can compete and enjoy the game.
Para badminton features some additional equipment and rules compared to standard badminton. One notable piece of equipment unique to para badminton is the use of crutches. Crutches are used by players who require additional support and stability when playing. These players compete in specific classes suited to their needs, as determined by the BWF classification system.
The height of the crutches is adjustable to fit the individual player's needs. Players can adjust the length to ensure their elbows are at a comfortable angle when holding the crutches. This adjustability allows for a customised fit, accommodating different player heights and ensuring optimal support and balance during play.
While there are not many rules or standards specific to crutches in para badminton, their use is governed by the same general principles as other equipment. The players' use of crutches should not pose a danger to themselves or their opponents, and any improper use may result in penalties, just as with the misuse of a racket or shuttlecock.
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Prosthetic limbs
Joshi, a 2019 World Champion, participates in the SL3 category, where players compete while standing. She highlights the lack of specialised prosthetic equipment for badminton, forcing athletes to adapt. The available prosthetics are designed for forward motion, while badminton requires sideways and backward motion as well. Over the years, Joshi has used different prosthetics, progressing from using her walking prosthetic to having dedicated limbs for badminton, fitness, and walking. She emphasises the impact of equipment science and the potential for assistive devices to enhance performance and quality of life.
Bhagat, a Para Olympian badminton gold medalist, has also faced challenges in finding the perfect prosthetic kit. He has experimented with prosthetics from various manufacturers, including German company Ottobock, known for their expertise in wearable human bionics. Bhagat's ideal prosthetic is fully carbon fibre, offering stability, lightness, and improved movement. He emphasises the need for customisation in para sports, as the equipment must suit the specific needs of each athlete and their sport.
The design and engineering of prosthetic limbs vary significantly across different sports and athletes. Sports technologists, like Bryce Dyer, work to optimise prosthetic designs for specific sports, taking into account factors such as motion, velocity, and individual athlete needs. For example, blade-style prostheses used in track-and-field events are springy to store and release energy, while prosthetics for cycling events have different requirements due to higher velocities.
The development of innovative prostheses has positively impacted the Paralympics, with athletes benefiting from improved performance and comfort. IP-protected sports prostheses have played a key role in helping athletes achieve their goals. The quest for the ideal prosthetic kit in para-badminton continues, with athletes like Joshi and Bhagat leading the way in exploring new possibilities.
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Rackets
Weight plays a significant role in the overall feel and performance of the racket. A lighter racket generally provides more control and manoeuvrability, making it easier to swing and return shots. On the other hand, heavier rackets offer increased stability and power, allowing players to generate more force behind their hits. The ideal weight depends on the player's strength, skill level, and playing style.
Shaft flexibility, or racket stiffness, refers to how much the shaft of the racket bends during impact with the shuttlecock. A more flexible shaft provides greater power, as it allows the racket head to accelerate faster and transfer more energy to the shuttlecock. Less flexible shafts offer improved control and precision, as they provide a firmer and more solid hit.
Balance is the distribution of weight along the racket, which affects its swing weight and manoeuvrability. A head-heavy balance increases the momentum of the racket head, resulting in more powerful shots. In contrast, an even-balanced or head-light racket allows for quicker swings and better control, making it easier to place shots accurately.
Some of the top brands in the market for badminton rackets include Yonex, Victor, Li-Ning, Apacs, Kumpoo, Xtrm, and Flypower. These brands offer a range of rackets with different specifications to cater to various playing styles and skill levels. Additionally, certain online retailers like Badminton Warehouse and Badminton Avenue provide expert stringing services and warranties for their rackets, ensuring optimal performance and peace of mind for players.
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Shuttlecocks
Secondly, the speed of the shuttlecock is an important consideration. Shuttlecocks are classified into speed categories from 75 (slowest) to 79 (fastest). The speed of the shuttlecock affects how far it will travel with a standard degree of force. Slower shuttlecocks will fall short and decelerate more quickly, while faster shuttlecocks will travel further and maintain their speed for longer. The playing environment also affects the shuttlecock's speed; higher temperatures and altitudes tend to "speed up" the shuttle, so a slower shuttlecock may be more appropriate in these conditions.
Thirdly, the durability of the shuttlecock is important, especially for beginners who tend to mishit the shuttle more, breaking more feathers. The storage conditions also impact durability; storing shuttlecocks in a dry space can cause the feathers to dry out and become brittle. To prolong the life of shuttlecocks, they should be stored in a humid environment, such as inside a humidome placed above a water tray. Alternatively, if stored in a dry environment, the tubes should be sealed immediately after use to prevent moisture loss.
Finally, the consistency of the shuttlecock is crucial. A consistent shuttlecock will land in the same spot when hit in the same way. The Yonex Aerosena AS30 Speed 78 is a popular choice for higher-level clubs and tournaments due to its well-known quality and consistency. Other recommended shuttlecocks include the Victor Gold Champion, Yonex Mavis series (nylon shuttlecocks suitable for recreational and training levels), and the Kawasaki King Kong 500 Hybrid Shuttlecocks for training.
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Frequently asked questions
Para badminton athletes use standard badminton equipment, with some additional equipment to accommodate athletes with physical impairments. This includes wheelchairs, crutches, and prosthetic limbs.
No, the wheelchair must not have any electric or other devices to assist movement or steering.
Yes, prosthetic limbs must be the same length as the player's existing limb and be in proportion with their other limbs. The use of prosthetic limbs is allowed in categories SL3, SL4, and WH, but not in SU5.
Yes, upper or lower limb amputees may use a crutch, as long as it does not exceed their natural measurement from the armpit to the ground.
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