Backhand low serve precision

Setup

1. In each of the receiver's service courts, mark a box where the short service line meets the centre line (the T) and a box where it meets the doubles sideline.
2. The server stands just behind their short service line, close to the centre line, with 15 shuttles to hand.
3. A partner stands in the receiving position, racket up, to give the server a real target to beat.
4. For singles practice, use the long, narrow singles service court instead.

How it runs

1. Serve diagonally: from the right service court when your score is even, from the left when it's odd.
2. Score 2 for a serve in a box, 1 for anywhere else in the service court, 0 for a fault or a serve that hits the net or lands short.
3. The receiver doesn't return yet; they call whether the serve was tight or loose.
4. Ten serves, then swap roles; try to beat your score in the next round.

Coaching points

• Both feet still and in contact with the floor until the serve is made.
• Whole shuttle below 1.15 m from the floor at contact (BWF fixed height); some local events use the older below-the-waist rule, so check your competition's rules.
• Short backswing, then push through with the thumb: guide the shuttle rather than hit it.
• The shuttle should peak on your side of the net, so it's already falling as it crosses the tape.
• Same routine every time: set, breathe, look, serve, then racket up for the return.

Common mistakes

• Shuffling or lifting a foot during the serve, which is a fault.
• Too much backswing, so the serve floats and invites a rush.
• Serving to the same spot every time.
• Holding the serve too long once both players are ready: undue delay is a fault.