Mastering the Badminton Backhand Clear: Ultimate Guide
Hey there, badminton enthusiasts! Ready to take your game to the next level? Well, you’re in for a treat because we’re about to dive deep into one of the most crucial shots in badminton – the backhand clear. Trust me, mastering this technique can be a total game-changer!
Picture this: you’re on the court, your opponent smashes a powerful shot to your backhand side, and you effortlessly return it with a high, deep clear that sends them scrambling to the back of their court. Sounds amazing, right? That’s the power of a well-executed backhand clear!
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about perfecting your badminton backhand clear. From the basics to advanced techniques, we’ve got you covered. So grab your racket, and let’s get ready to transform your backhand from meh to marvelous!
Understanding the Basics of the Backhand Clear
Let’s dive into the world of badminton and explore one of its most crucial shots: the backhand clear. If you’ve ever watched a badminton match, you’ve probably seen players effortlessly sending the shuttlecock soaring across the court with the back of their racket. That’s the backhand clear in action!
So, what exactly is a backhand clear? Simply put, it’s a defensive shot played from the back of the court using the back of your racket. The goal is to hit the shuttlecock high and deep into your opponent’s court, buying you time to regain your position and prepare for the next shot.
Now, you might be wondering when you should use this shot during a game. Well, the backhand clear comes in handy when you’re under pressure or out of position. It’s your go-to move when the shuttlecock is coming towards your backhand side and you need to clear it to the back of your opponent’s court. This shot is all about giving yourself some breathing room and preventing your opponent from attacking.
But hold on, how is this different from a forehand clear? Great question! While both shots aim to send the shuttlecock to the back of the opponent’s court, the execution is quite different. The forehand clear allows for more power and control, as you’re using the front of your racket and your dominant hand’s natural movement. The backhand clear, on the other hand (pun intended!), requires more technique and finesse. It’s often considered trickier to master but can be a real game-changer when executed well.
Mastering the Proper Grip and Stance
Now that we’ve got the basics down, let’s talk about how to hold that racket and position yourself for the perfect backhand clear. Trust me, getting this right can make a world of difference in your game!
First up, let’s explore grip techniques. For the backhand clear, most players prefer the backhand grip. To achieve this, hold the racket as if you’re shaking hands with it, then rotate it slightly clockwise (for right-handed players) or counterclockwise (for lefties). This grip allows for better control and power when hitting from your backhand side.
Now on the back hand clear, if you use a standard backhand grip all the time, the racket face might be pointing outwards, sending your shot out. To fix this, adjust slightly to a more panhandle grip, so that the shot always stays in play.

Now, let’s talk about your stance. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, with your non-racket foot slightly forward. Keep your knees slightly bent and your weight on the balls of your feet. This position allows for quick movement and provides a stable base for your shot.
As for body alignment, turn your body sideways to the net, with your shoulder pointing towards the incoming shuttlecock. This positioning helps you generate more power and accuracy in your shot.
Remember, balance is key! Distribute your weight evenly between both feet. You want to be ready to move in any direction after hitting your backhand clear. Good balance also helps you maintain control throughout the shot, increasing your chances of hitting that perfect clear.
Breaking Down the Backhand Clear Technique
Alright, let’s break this shot down step by step. Follow along, and before you know it, you’ll be hitting backhand clears like a pro!
1. Preparation: As the shuttlecock approaches, turn your body sideways and bring your racket back. Your elbow should be up, and your racket head should be above your shoulder.
2. Backswing: Pull your racket arm back further, creating tension in your shoulder and upper arm. This is where you’ll generate your power.
3. Forward swing: As you begin your forward swing, start rotating your upper body towards the net. Lead with your elbow, keeping it high.
4. Contact: Hit the shuttlecock at the highest point you can reach comfortably. Your racket should be angled slightly upwards to achieve the right trajectory.
5. Follow-through: After contact, continue your swing across your body. Your racket should end up on the opposite side of your body from where it started.
6. Recovery: Quickly return to your ready position, prepared for the next shot.
Now, let’s talk about some common mistakes to avoid. One biggie is dropping your elbow during the shot. Keep that elbow high throughout the swing to maintain power and control. Another mistake is hitting the shuttlecock too late. Try to make contact when the shuttlecock is directly above or slightly in front of you.

Want some tips for generating more power and accuracy? Here you go:
1. Use your whole body, not just your arm. The power comes from the rotation of your hips and shoulders.
2. Snap your wrist at the point of contact for extra speed and spin.
3. Focus on hitting the sweet spot of your racket for maximum power and control.
4. Practice your timing. Hitting the shuttlecock at the right moment can make a huge difference in the quality of your clear.
Drills to Improve Your Backhand Clear
Practice makes perfect, right? Let’s look at some drills that’ll have you hitting killer backhand clears in no time!
For solo practice, try these exercises:
1. Shadow play: Practice the motion of the backhand clear without a shuttlecock. Focus on your grip, stance, and swing technique.
2. Wall practice: Hit backhand clears against a wall, aiming for a high target. This helps improve your accuracy and consistency.
3. Shuttle drop: Drop a shuttlecock from your non-racket hand and practice hitting backhand clears. This drill improves your timing and contact point.
Ready to practice with a partner? Give these drills a shot:
1. Clear exchange: Stand at opposite back corners of the court and hit backhand clears to each other. Focus on height and depth.
2. Random feed: Have your partner feed shuttles to your backhand side at varying speeds and angles. Practice reacting and clearing consistently.
3. Defense to attack: Start with your partner attacking and you defending with backhand clears. Then switch roles. This simulates real game scenarios.

For you advanced players out there, try these challenging drills:
1. Moving clears: Practice hitting backhand clears while moving backwards or sideways. This improves your footwork and shot execution under pressure.
2. Alternating corners: Hit backhand clears alternating between the left and right back corners of your opponent’s court. This enhances your accuracy and court coverage.
3. Clear and drop: Alternate between backhand clears and backhand drops. This improves your deception and shot variety.
Remember, consistency is key. Try to incorporate these drills into your regular training routine for best results.
Incorporating the Backhand Clear into Your Strategy
Now that you’ve got the technique down, let’s talk strategy. The backhand clear isn’t just a defensive shot – it can be a powerful offensive weapon too!
Defensively, use the backhand clear when you’re under pressure or out of position. A high, deep clear buys you time to regain your balance and positioning. It’s also great for neutralizing your opponent’s attack and resetting the rally.
Offensively, a well-executed backhand clear can catch your opponent off guard. If they’re expecting a defensive shot and you deliver a powerful, attacking clear, you might force a weak return or even win the point outright.
To keep your opponent guessing, try combining your backhand clear with other shots. For example, you could fake a clear and instead play a drop shot. Or, follow up a series of clears with a smash when your opponent least expects it.
Reading your opponent is crucial in deciding when to use your backhand clear. If they’re slow to return to the center after hitting a shot, a backhand clear to the far corner can be very effective. Similarly, if you notice your opponent struggle with overhead shots, using high backhand clears can exploit this weakness.
Pay attention to your opponent’s position too. If they’re leaning forward, anticipating a drop shot, surprise them with a backhand clear. On the other hand, if they’re camping at the back of the court, a shorter clear or even a net shot might be more effective.
Remember, variety is the spice of life – and badminton! Don’t become predictable with your backhand clears. Mix up the speed, height, and placement to keep your opponent on their toes.
Conclusion
Wow, we’ve covered a lot of ground, haven’t we? From grip techniques to pro tips, you’re now armed with everything you need to perfect your badminton backhand clear. Remember, practice makes perfect, so get out there and start incorporating these techniques into your game!
Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see immediate results – mastering the backhand clear takes time and patience. But trust me, once you’ve got it down, you’ll be amazed at how it transforms your overall gameplay. You’ll be sending your opponents running and dominating the court in no time!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your racket, hit the court, and start practicing those backhand clears. Your future badminton-champion self will thank you! And hey, if you’ve found this guide helpful, why not share it with your badminton buddies? Let’s spread the love for the game and help each other improve. Now go out there and show that shuttlecock who’s boss!