National Badminton Week starts on the 14th October 2006. To celebrate BADMINTON England have devised the one minute rally challenge.
Can you hit the shuttle over the net more times in 60 seconds than Gail Emms and Donna Kellogg? And can Gail & Donna play more shots in one minute than Anthony & Kristian...take a look!
For backhand defence the thumb is placed on the back of the racket handle at a slight downward angle.
When the shuttle is smashed the defending player brings the racket head slightly upwards and forwards to meet it.
Although the forearm plays a major role in backhand defensive shots for softer shots this forearm movement is limited.
Moving the racket to meet the shuttle will not only allow you to intercept it early but will give you options to play a variety of replies.
Remember the earlier you can intercept the shuttle, the less time your opponent has to react.
![Badminton - It\](http://img.youtube.com/vi/zjKJlHbzwvk/2.jpg "Badminton - It\")
