Quick disclaimer: Obviously, a lot of the same attributes are going to be useful no matter what discipline you are competing in, and many players are successful in multiple disciplines, even at the highest level (usually level and mixed doubles, although some, such as the Popov brothers, compete in both singles and doubles). And some men prefer to play mainly at the front in mens doubles, and yet also play mixed doubles, where they obviously are mainly at the back. However, I think it's fair to say that despite all this, there are still some player attributes that are more beneficial in some disciplines than in others. For example, singles players typically cover a greater distance during a match than doubles players, so stamina/endurance is probably of greater value to them. On the other hand, they probably won't be playing as many fast and flat rallies. "Attributes" could include physical traits (eg. height, endurance), technical skills (eg. footwork, defense, deception), specific shots (eg. serve, smash, backhand clear), and mental skills (eg. tactical awareness) - or anything else you can think of... And please don't just consider elite players - think about ordinary club level players as well. How would advise someone unsure which discipline will best suit their specific strengths and weaknesses (other than just "play them all" or "play what you enjoy")? Here are a few of my own thoughts to get us started... Singles: - physical fitness / endurance - efficiency of movement / footwork - deception - backhand clear (at lower levels, a fast doubles player with good 'round the head shots might rarely need to play a backhand clear, but it's an essential shot for singles players at all levels) - consistency (more points are lost through mistakes than won through clear winners) - height? (there are exceptions, but height seems to me, to be generally advantageous) - is there a difference for mens and ladies singles? Level Doubles: - power - racket speed (fast and flat rallies) - defense / precision (with less open space on the court, there is less margin for error) - all-round ability? - is there a difference for mens and ladies doubles? (it seems like ladies are typically stronger in defense than attack, so stamina and consistency are more important) Mixed Doubles: - tactical awareness (I may be biased, but I'd argue mixed doubles is the most tactical discipline) - for the man, speed of movement (he has to cover a lot of court) - the third shot / around-the-head shots (unlike in level doubles, even when the man serves, he is still responsible for covering the rearcourt - at lower levels, a fast return to his backhand corner might force a weak reply or clear, instead of a 'round-the-head smash) - for the lady, serving, defense, netplay What do you disagree with? What would you add?
pretty much all the things you mention are gained from training the question you're asking is circular, because some of the attributes you mention, have already been defined by the discipline someone plays. you're not going to put extra work into your flat fast game and doubles defence if you're playing only competitive singles, and you're not going to put extra work into your late backhand and efficiency of movement if you're mostly playing doubles. the point at which physical attributes come into it are relatively high (beyond lower county level at least) unless you're an athletic outlier. you can still be a good club doubles player in your 60s. in your 20s and 30s there's no physical barrier to any discipline if you're generally sporty and put the work in. for most people what they choose to get good at depends on their character and environment. lots of people play doubles and mixed in the uk for example because there's a limited singles scene. the attributes to be a good player in any discipline are general athleticism, disciplined attitude, access to facilities, the desire and determination to be a good badminton player. i'm not sure why anyone would advise anyone to specialise in a discipline unless they're a competitive junior and have some kind of desire to take it to a very high level, and that's a whole different ball game which will have flushed itself out at an early age through competition. i've never come across a player who who's unsure of what discipline to choose and asking for advice about it, who would ask that, and why would someone to tell them to specialise?
As I have got older, I play mostly Level and Mixed Doubles now. I am a qualified coach and league badminton player for some years now. Here are my thoughts: Singles Endurance: Singles matches often entail long rallies and a lot of court coverage. Players need great levels of stamina. Speed and Agility: To reach shots across the court, quick footwork is crucial. Tactics: Players must tactically arrange their shots and movements in order to gain winning points. Precision: A well-placed shot may cause the opponent to make an error or move out of position. The court is narrower so this is crucial. Mental Toughness: The capacity to remain composed and concentrated under pressure is essential. You do not have a partner to bail you out. Level Doubles Teamwork: Effective communication and mutual understanding are essential. Reflexes: Playing doubles frequently calls for quick reactions because of the fast exchanges at the net. Positioning: Keeping your partner in the right formation and providing effective court coverage is essential. Smash and Defence: It's crucial to use strong smashes and efficient defensive strategies. Consistency: Keeping the shuttle in play and committing fewer unintentional mistakes. Mixed Doubles: Chemistry: Partners should possess talents that enhance one another, such as a strong backcourt play by the male player and a strong net play by the female player. Rotation and Positioning: The ability to move between defensive and offensive formations with effectiveness. Communication: Because of the variations, it is much more important to communicate clearly and consistently throughout the rally as formations change more than level doubles. Adaptability: The capacity to quickly adjust to opponents' various playing philosophies and tactics. Patience and Strategy: To outmanoeuvre the opposition, a more strategic approach is frequently used. All things considered, I believe common attributes and skills all players need is a combination of mental toughness, technical proficiency, tactical awareness, and physical fitness. Above all, enjoy the journey Kindest regards, -Ajay- Quote of the Day I can live without money, but I cannot live without love.
