The score for the Women's 2nd match was at that point 7-7, and the deciding match had gone into the 3rd end. Suddenly, not only for the players, but the spectators too, each serve and stroke took on increased meaning, and became it's own little heart thumping drama - would the clear be deep enough? Would the smash be strong enough? Would their defense hold?
I guess it's this sort of drama which makes any sport - not just Badminton, so enthralling for spectators and such a thrill for competitors. The intensity and adrenaline rush of competition is quite unique to this theater of human activity, and it can unite (or divide!) people regardless of race, gender or religion.
Digression aside, for this post is not meant to be a treatise on sport and it's societal implications (although that would be interesting to discuss...hmm...possible future topic mayhap?), I did want to talk about my chosen sport; Badminton, and why I love it so.
I feel that, especially in places like America, and more so amongst western culture, Badminton has a bit of a bad rap as being a nerdy sport. In America especially, Badminton is regarded as a backyard game, and people lie blissfully unaware of the depth of the seemingly simple game that they indulge in on lazy sunday afternoons (whilst making jokes about hitting cocks around).
These guys are definitely doing it wrong.
In my mind, Badminton is a beautiful and involved game. It requires a lot of commitment from the player to progress, as it is a technical and challenging sport to learn. It can take a beginner weeks of practise to do a full clear from one end of the court to the other, and that's just one of the myriad of shots and techniques to get to grips with.
This guy is definitely doing it right.
In a way, it's a shame that the entry barriers are so high, because Badminton becomes exponentially more enjoyable the better you are at it (more so, I believe, than other sports). The way the shuttlecock flies is so different to any other projectile based sport (like tennis / squash) and it gives a Badminton rally it's own unique rhythm and tempo. It is incredibly satisfying to string a good sequence of shots together.
Contrary to popular belief, Badminton has probably one of the highest all round fitness requirements of any sport - it requires explosive power in both the upper and lower body for movement and playing shots, strong core muscles, a good aerobic system for endurance and a good non-aerobic system to power the body during the rallies themselves, which are usually short and intense.
Not convinced? Would you believe me if I said that a professional player could smash a shuttlecock at over 200mph, and even crack open a watermelon with it?
Watch from 0:15 onwards! ;)
To be honest, I don't understand why it doesn't get more exposure in the west, because as sports go, it's possibly one of the most dynamic and exciting around.
Don't just take my word for it however, go grab a racquet and find out what all the fuss is about.
You know, I originally wanted to do a Badminton Varsity report, since it was played last Saturday. However, I seem to have spent my allotted blogging time on a digression (a great digression, but a digression nonetheless), and so the actual report will have to wait until sometime later this week.
Peace out.
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