Another Machine Training: Soffie and Adéla Perfecting Drives and Drop Technique

Today we are taking a look at the training session of two of my skilled, intermediate trainees – Soffie and Adéla. The girls are working hard, and today's session was full of intense drills. Once again, we brought the feeding machine into play, which is invaluable for practicing technique.

Fast Game and Transitioning to the Offensive

The first half of the training was fast-paced. We focused on drives, but the main goal was the active transition from a drive into an attack. The machine fired one shuttlecock after another, and the girls had to focus on quick racket work, a stable stance, and timely reactions to take the initiative in the rally.

Precision at the Net: Straight Drops

In the second part, we slowed down the pace slightly but focused even more on absolute precision. The main theme was straight drops (drops down the line). Here we really went into detail regarding proper technique. We focused on:

• Early Preparation and Deception: For a drop to be effective, it must look like a powerful clear or smash until the very last moment.

• Point of Contact: The shuttlecock needs to be hit high and ideally slightly in front of the body.

• Smooth Movement: Drops don't require brute force, but rather maximum touch, a relaxed wrist, and control over the shot.

Both girls did a tremendous amount of work, and there is a noticeable improvement in their technique. Keep it up!