The secret to developing is – Andy

Expert help, General

Welcome to the series that gives you access to expert opinions and views on all things badminton

We asked a group of experts (coaches and players) …….

The secret to developing is …

Desperately wanting to improve

Plus, being self-aware of what and how you are doing

Listening and observing how the skill can be done to then copy the skill

The secret to developing is to see that you’re developing

For me, progress is the fuel for motivation.

So step 1 is to work hard and step 2 is to recognise the progress that you’re making because that will give you a sense of achievement to develop and improve yourself further. A lot of people will just work hard and miss the second step.

If we knew the definitive answer to this question then there would be no need for coaching or education

Developing is individual for a player. There are so many factors that can help a player develop or in other cases, hinder, and I would say that not one player will work the same way as another.

The analogy I would use is – a person may know 4/5/6/7/8 chords on a piano or a guitar but unless they know how to play them in time or correctly to form a tune, then knowing the chords are pointless.

For me, though, to develop, you have to begin with someone willing to help you through that process, get things wrong, figure out solutions and help you find a way to play the chords to form a tune.

Is having a positive mindset

Plus, the discipline to practice over and over again until you succeed.

It depends on where you are in your journey

We think that it depends on what stage of your badminton career you are at! But to generalise, train smart and always seek out information from a variety of knowledgeable people.

Requesting & Reflecting

To constantly reflect on your skills and areas of development. asking for feedback from those around you and getting both the best feedback, but also a range of diverse feedback

Have an open mind

Listen to people’s advice with respect and gratitude

You don’t need to take all the advice, but you should listen and explore the ideas presented

The secret to developing is always having an open mind

Then don’t be afraid to take 2 steps backwards to go 3 steps forwards

Athletes should always reinforce and reaffirm their strong areas of the game but must focus and be open to developing their weaker areas so you can become a complete player.

Watching badminton and other nations is a must as you can learn so much from different movement, coaching techniques and how a player copes under pressure, I think those that enjoy watching their sport develop quicker.