Badminton 2-on-1 Smash and Defend
On each court, two attackers try to smash against one defender who survives with blocks and low defensive returns. Students practice the smash, a ready defensive stance with the racket out front, and reading a fast shuttle.
How to play
- Groups of three per court: two attackers on one side (one at the net, one in back) and one defender alone on the other side in a low, centered stance (2 min).
- The defender serves high and deep; the back attacker smashes or drops and the pair plays out the point. The net player only plays soft touches.
- The defender wins the point if the shuttle lands on the attackers' side or if they survive six shots in a row; otherwise the attackers score.
- Defensive turns last 4 minutes, counting the defender's points; rotate until everyone has defended (12 min).
- Huddle: which defenses worked (short block, crosscourt, long clear) and where to aim the smash for best results (2 min).
Rules
- Smash down toward the floor, never at the defender's face.
- The defender may return anywhere, including the doubles alleys.
- Pick up all shuttles between turns so nobody steps on one.
Variations
Easier
The back attacker alternates one smash and one clear to give the defender time.
Standard
Two attackers against one defender who wins by surviving six shots.
Harder
The defender may only return to the half away from the back attacker.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: defend half a court or attack from a fixed spot while a partner feeds shuttles.
- Visual impairment: use brightly colored shuttles and call out before every hit.
- Lower fitness: 2-minute defensive turns with shuttle pickup as active rest.
Learning goals
- Execute the smash with a high contact point in front of the body.
- Hold a low defensive stance with the racket out front.
- Choose the best defensive return based on the attackers' positions.
Equipment for a class of 25
- rackets: 25
- shuttlecocks: 24
- nets: 4
Teacher tip
This is very demanding for the defender, so keep turns short and insist on a truly high serve, or the smash becomes impossible to defend.
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