I am determined to build an ultimate defense against smashes. From a lot of the more experienced players that I play with at my school, they tell me that it requires a strong wrist. I've read a lot about pronation and supination and follow by it very much, but it also makes sense that a powerful wrist that can generate good acceleration is great in smash defense to the body. How do you guys return smashes? do you combine wrist flexion with arm movements to return a smash with a high clear? I have improved in terms of reflex but I have trouble getting the shuttle deep after a smash. Returning a smash as a drop shot is bit easier since it just requires reflex and finesse. i'd appreciate any tips you guys could give me. thank you!
for future reference, here are some links I found: http://www.badmintonforum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=13342 http://www.badmintoncentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=16169 http://www.badmintoncentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=14046 now, my specific question as stated above. I am almost certain that strong, positive smash returns require a strong wrist. Do you guys agree? If so, maybe I should do some wrist training? I never thought I would need it, but the strength may come in handy. thanks
Anticipation and preparation has a lot to do with it. The further you have to move your racquet to get into position once the bird is hit, the harder it will be to return a smash with a drive or clear.
The best way is to play against the wall (IMHO). It produces the right muscles, since it is exactly like your defence in the game. It is harder than you think. Remember to keep your racket away from your body, and try not to use arm motion (since this is slower, however at first it is neccessary in a game to get sufficient power.) also increases the coordination between your body, eyes and the shuttle.
