Footwork drills · Doubles · Intermediate · ~3 min
Doubles side-by-side defensive footwork
In doubles defence the movements are small and sudden. A low, square stance and short adjustment steps give fast reactions.
▶ Where To Stand When Defending In Badminton - Doubles Defence PART 1 — Badminton Insight (YouTube)
More videos: Badminton Side-to-Side Defense Footwork - Coach Efendi Wijaya (Subtitle Indonesia) (SportVideos) · Side Court Defensive Footwork - Become a Better Badminton Player - Abhishek Ahlawat (SportVideos)
Prescription4 × 20 s · rest 40 s
EquipmentBadminton court
ImpactModerate
FormatPartner
Starting position
Each player in the middle of their half of the court width, slightly behind the short service line's midpoint depth, low and square.
Movement sequence
- Hold a low, wide stance with the racket in front (backhand side).
- Partner or coach mimics smashes to the body, sideline or drop-shot area.
- Make small adjustment steps or a single lunge, shadow the block/drive/lift.
- Return to the defensive stance immediately.
Recovery
Defensive stance in your half.
Technique cues
- Low and wide
- Short steps only
- Racket in front
Common mistakes
- Standing up after each shot
- Big steps (too slow to readjust)
Easier
Slow mimicked smashes.
Harder
Real smashes from a feeder on a chair.
Safety
- Stop if you feel sharp pain, dizziness, chest pain or unusual breathlessness.