Getting Started - Clothing

If you are a newcomer to the game of badminton playing within a leisure or sports complex you can wear whatever clothing you wish. Ideally, though, you should opt for loose fitting items that allow freedom of movement and let the body 'breathe' naturally as you engage in physical activity. Where the game is played indoors, you often sweat and it is advisable to wear clothing made of a material that absorbs perspiration and is easily washed and dried.

This casual approach to clothing is fine for the social player enjoying a game with friends, but once you join an organized club the situation may well change. Here you will encounter your first taste of etiquette and clothing regulations. Until you reach county standard, there are no hard and fast rules but you will find that established league clubs prefer, or even insist on, the wearing of recognized sports clothing. Some clubs stipulate that items must be predominantly white, others do not. If you are in doubt the best advice is to ask the club secretary on joining or visiting for the first time.

Once you join a club or become involved in league play you will, at the very least, need to buy more shirtslBy now you could have progressed from the casual player who enjoyed an hour once or twice a week to the fanatic who tries not to miss a minute of a three hour club night and in addition finds himself in one, two or even more club teams playing in leagues.

Badminton is an explosive game with heavy demands placed on the feet. You owe it to yourselfto feel comfortable, so choose your socks with care. The cheapest are not always the best. If you are prone to blisters do take your time when purchasing and avoid socks with raised and abrasive seams. Remember also that because sports socks are often thicker than normal socks it is advisable to wear your sports socks when choosing your badminton footwear.

Tracksuits are a most useful, almost essential part of your kit and there is a wide variety of choice. These items are worn to and from the sports hall and during the warm up prior to actual play. They are particularly beneficial during intervals between matches as they help to keep the limbs warm and supple.

Unless the hall is especially warm, I you should wear your tracksuit during the pre-match knock up and remove it . before the match commences. Some I club and tournament regulations. I insist that tracksuits are removed for match play. You would be well advised I to select a tracksuit that has a zipped bottom to the legs so that you can slip I out of the trousers easily without having to remove your shoes.