If you are new to badminton, you might have heard commentators say:
“He plays a high clear!“
But what does that actually mean?
A clear is one of the fundamental shots in badminton. It sends the shuttle high and deep into your opponent’s court.
At first, it might sound simple. But there is more to it than just hitting the shuttle upwards.
Why Use a Clear?
The clear is not just a defensive shot. It serves multiple purposes.
- Push your opponent back: By sending the shuttle high and to the back line, you force them away from the net.
- Regain control: If you are under pressure, a clear gives you time to reposition.
- Set up an attack: A deep clear can create space for a smash or drop shot on the next rally.
Even beginners notice one thing quickly: a well-timed clear changes the rhythm of the game.
Types of Clears:
There are two main types:
1. Defensive Clear
- Hit with a high arc, far into the backcourt
- Gives you time to recover
- Less power-focused, more about height
2. Offensive Clear
- Hit faster and flatter
- Puts pressure on the opponent
- Can be used to create openings for a follow-up shot
Knowing when to use which type comes with practice. And, sometimes it comes with observation.
How
to Execute a Clear?
Executing a clear involves technique and timing.
- Grip: Use a basic forehand or backhand grip.
- Positioning: Stand with knees slightly bent and body facing the net.
- Swing: Swing your racket upward, making contact below your head for height.
- Follow Through: Point the racket toward the target.
A soft wrist flick adds precision, while full arm swing adds power. Beginners often find that focusing on height first makes learning easier.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Hitting too flat: The shuttle lands too soon, giving your opponent a chance to attack.
- Using too much force: Accuracy is lost. The shuttle may go out of bounds.
- Poor footwork: Without correct positioning, even a perfect swing fails.
The clear may seem simple, but control matters more than power.
Real-Life Scene:
I remember my first time trying a clear in a friendly match. I swung hard, the shuttle flew… straight into the net.
Only after adjusting my angle and timing did it start going over and landing deep.
It’s a small lesson. The technique beats brute force every time. Sharpen your techniques.
Why the Clear Matters?
The clear is more than a shot. It is a strategy tool.
- Controls the pace of the game
- Pushes your opponent around
- Opens opportunities for winning rallies
In essence, a game without clears is like running without a pause. It sounds exhausting and chaotic.
Final Words:
Here comes the conclusion, the clear is a simple yet powerful badminton shot. When you master it, it improves both defense and attack.
Whether you are chasing a fast smash or setting up your own, the clear gives structure to the rally.
Next time you play, try a deep, high clear. Notice how it changes the rhythm. When you make small adjustment. You’ll see a big difference.
Mark my words!