Shots & strokes · Overhead · Intermediate · ~6 min
Round-the-head overhead
A forehand overhead (clear, drop or smash) played above or left of the head from the backhand rear corner.
More videos: Badminton - Around the Head Shots (Prit Pachu) · 5 Steps to Hit the PERFECT OVERHEAD SHOT (badminton tutorial) (Aylex Badminton Academy)
Prescription3 × 20 shuttles · rest 1 min
EquipmentRacket, Shuttles, Badminton court
ImpactLow
FormatNeeds feeder
Tactical use & trade-offs
Keeps attacking options from the backhand side where a backhand would be weaker. Recovery is longer than from the forehand side, so pick the shot that matches your position.
Technique
| Grip | Forehand grip: shake hands with the handle, the V between thumb and index finger on the top-left bevel, fingers relaxed and slightly spread. |
|---|---|
| Preparation | Turn so your back faces the forehand sideline; elbow high, racket behind the head. |
| Contact point | Above the head or slightly to the left of it, still in front. |
| Racket face | Depends on the shot (up for clear, down for smash). |
| Swing | Throwing action with the arm bending over the head; strong pronation. |
| Body & footwork | Lean slightly left; left leg reaches sideways to land. |
| Follow-through | Land on the left leg and push back toward base. |
Coaching cues
- Over the head, still in front
- Land on the left, push back
Common errors
- Contact too far behind
- Off-balance landings falling away from the court
Practice
On your own: Shadow round-the-head movement and swings (3 × 8).
With a partner: Feeder lifts to the backhand rear; hitter alternates clear/drop/smash round-the-head.
Volume: 3 × 12 shuttles.
Safety
- Stop if you feel sharp pain, dizziness, chest pain or unusual breathlessness.