How Badminton Rackets Evolved To Suit The Sport of Badminton
In the earlier times, the game of Badminton was called Battledore and the Greeks and Asians were the first ones to play it. During the 1850s, the Duke of Beaufort revolutionized the game in his house in Gloucestershire and called it badminton. His home was later identified by the locals as the Badminton House.
In 1992, the popularity of badminton grew all over the world after its official debut in the Barcelona Olympics. Currently, the number of players and professionals of badminton is growing and more world badminton tournaments are being organized because of this. Badminton is truly an interesting and fast-paced sport that can be enjoyed by both beginners and pros. It is also a great and fun way to stay fit and healthy.
Even though the game of badminton started in an English House, the sport is now globally known and is a very popular sport in the Asian countries like Malaysia, South Korea, Indonesia and China. These Asian countries are now producing world class players and China is producing the top badminton players. The Chinese have won a lot of major and world tournaments in the last few years and they are able to keep the top spot.
Battledore and Shuttlecock
The early game of battledore was very basic. Two individuals would hit a shuttlecock back and forth with a plain bat until one person misses and the shuttlecock falls to the ground. Those bats had handles and heads which are similar to the modern day rackets. The difference is that the head was entirely solid and made out of wood. Woven strings were not yet used during that time.
Wooden Racket
Initially, the badminton rackets consisted of a woven head and a concrete frame or body in the same way tennis rackets were made from during those times. The string utilized for the head of the battledore racket was created from animal by product and the frame was made from wood. The grip was long and bare, easily causing some cuts on the hand.
Metal Racket
In time, the rackets made from wood were changed by metal rackets. The next rackets were made from steel as it was a great metal. Soon, aluminum rackets became a more preferred choice because it was a lighter racket. This revolutionized the game and permitted the players to hit and roam within the court easier. It also lessened the degree of fatigue and stress being placed by the heavier badminton rackets. The handles were equipped with a grip material to enhance the control and comfort of the user.
Composite Racket
The badminton rackets being used today are now made from composite or synthetic materials, with carbon and graphite fiber being the most widely used materials. The modern badminton rackets are way lighter and have better grip and power than the early rackets. These are equipped with light yet sturdy nylon strings and other materials with handles specially covered in grips for better control.
Other than the frames, the best badminton rackets out in the market today are created using premium materials like those used to make the strings and grips. There are different badminton rackets that can suit a player’s style and level of play.
Source by Cai Caerleon
