Speedminton is a fast-paced game that combines elements of badminton, tennis, and squash. Unlike traditional badminton, speedminton has no net, allowing it to be played in a variety of open spaces, such as parks, beaches, and even at night.
History of Speedminton
Speed badminton, or speedminton, was developed by German athlete Billy Brandes. For six years, he experimented with various racket and shuttlecock models, striving to create the optimal combination for the new game. A speedminton set includes two rackets and two or three shuttlecocks. The set also includes light-up shuttlecock inserts and a weighted ring for wind resistance.
Equipment and Features of the Game
Speedminton is played using rackets and shuttlecocks called speeders. There are different types of speeders:
1. Match speeder – designed for tournaments, maximum speed of 290 km/h, red head.
2. Night speeder – used for night games, maximum speed of 290 km/h, green translucent head.
3. Fun speeder – for beginners and slower play, maximum speed of 260 km/h, yellow head.
4. Cross speeder – for outdoor play, maximum speed of 290 km/h, red head, green skirt.
5. Heli speeder – this shuttlecock has a distinctive appearance due to the divided skirt. Speed is not specified, but wind resistance is: up to 4 m/s. The head is red, the skirt is yellow.
Speedminton rackets are lightweight and maneuverable, typically weighing no more than 150-170 grams.
Game Rules
The game begins with a coin toss, after which a side or a service player is chosen. A match is played until two wins are reached, ending when one player reaches 16 points. If the score reaches 15:15, play continues until one player gains a two-point advantage.
Serving can be done from either the baseline or the center of the court. After every three serves, the serving player switches sides.
Sides change after every game. From the fifth game onward, sides change after every nine points.
A match is played until two wins are reached.
Points are scored if:
• the shuttle touches the court or the lines;
• the shuttle lands outside the court;
Errors in the return:
• the shuttle touches the player's body.
• the player touches the shuttle twice.
Health Benefits
Speedminton not only helps you stay fit but also provides excellent eye training. During the game, the player's gaze frequently switches from near to far distances, strengthening the eye muscles and potentially improving vision. This is very beneficial for strengthening the eye muscles. The body's muscles and joints also receive an excellent workout.
Differences from badminton:
Speedminton's lack of a net allows for play in a variety of locations. Any court can be used. The main requirement is that it be approximately 26 meters long and at least 8 meters wide. There should also be no limit on the court's height.
Before the start of the game, the court is marked out into 5.5 x 5.5 meter squares, in which each player is positioned. Cones—special markers placed at the corners of the square—are used for marking.
The shuttlecock in speedminton is heavier and reaches speeds of up to 290 km/h.
Play can be done in the dark thanks to glowing stakes, also known as "fireflies"—small flasks containing a luminescent chemical compound. Just shake the shuttlecock, and it will glow in the dark.
The shuttlecock is heavier and doesn't change its trajectory in the wind.
The rackets are lighter and more maneuverable than badminton rackets, weighing no more than 150-170 grams.