Badminton: Backyard Family Fun

WHEN FAMILIES are looking for good quality time together, the answer may be badminton! When family members enjoy the outdoors, prefer to be active, and like the idea of getting some exercise, the game of badminton may be the perfect choice. And, it can be played in their own backyard.

Just hitting the birdie - the official name is shuttlecock - back and forth across the net can be fun. However, a rousing game of spirited competition may also be enjoyed. Singles (one against one) or doubles (two against two) offer opportunities for sisters, brothers, moms, and dads to all be involved. Badminton provides an important time for parents and kids to get together for play, laughter, and learning. Various pairings, such as matches between father and son, can have special appeal. Or, the game can keep kids busy for hours of play with their friends from the neighborhood.

Many stores which offer sporting goods will have badminton equipment. Most often, all the necessary supplies and equipment are available in a boxed set which should include the simple rules of the game, racquets, birdies, a net, two posts (standards), and support cords which help keep the net taunt and the posts in a straight and upright position.

Determining the boundaries for the court is fairly easy. The rules will likely include a diagram or a description of the playing areas. The dimensions of the court can be stepped-off. Officially, the court is 44 feet in length and 20 feet in width for doubles, and 44 x 17 for singles. Lines can be marked on the grass with most anything available - even sticks! The court doesn't have to be perfect for family fun. The idea is to simply make the playing area on both sides of the net the same size.

Badminton is a great game! Children, teens, and parents can enjoy this lifetime sport. It is an ideal activity for backyard family fun.