Badminton Multi-Shuttle Feeding in Threes
In groups of three, a feeder sends shuttles in quick succession from a bucket to different zones and the hitter plays them one after another while the third student collects. This is the multi-shuttle drill used in clubs, adapted for PE, working footwork, linked shots, and sport-specific endurance.
How to play
- Form groups of three, each with a bucket of 15 shuttles; the feeder stands at the net with the bucket and the hitter at the center of their court (2 min).
- Set 1, net: the feeder tosses short shuttles by hand, alternating forehand and backhand; the hitter plays net shots and returns to the center after each one.
- Set 2, midcourt: tosses to the sides at chest height so the hitter plays drives.
- Set 3, mixed: the feeder uses a racket to mix net and deep shuttles; the hitter answers with a lift or a clear depending on the shuttle.
- Each set lasts about 30 seconds or 15 shuttles; the collector returns the shuttles to the bucket and roles rotate. Complete 3 rounds of all three sets (14 min).
- Recovery: walk around the court and discuss within the group which zone was hardest to reach (2 min).
Rules
- The feeder waits for the hitter to return to the center before sending the next shuttle.
- The collector only picks up shuttles outside the group's playing area.
- Any hitter can call 'pause' if they get too tired.
- Safety: no feeding while the collector is inside the hitter's court.
Variations
Easier
The feeder tosses more slowly and only to two zones.
Standard
Three 30-second sets: net, midcourt, and mixed.
Harder
Feeding speeds up and the hitter must split-step before every shot.
Adaptations
- For students with limited mobility, the feeder always tosses within racket reach.
- For students who are deaf or hard of hearing, the feeder shows the shuttle before tossing it.
- For less fit students, use 20-second sets with more rest.
Learning goals
- Link shots together with movement and recovery to the center.
- Maintain stroke technique despite fatigue.
- Pace effort and recognize signs of fatigue.
Equipment for a class of 25
- rackets: 25
- shuttlecocks: 120
- buckets: 9
- cones: 18
Teacher tip
Teach feeders to toss accurately before you start, because the drill depends on it. Keep sets short: intensity is high and technique breaks down quickly.
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