Singles attack: move your opponent away, then hit the weak spot
How to build an attack in singles by moving your opponent away from an area of weakness and then playing into it, and where to stand while you do it.
The idea
The BWF Level 1 Coaches' Manual (2nd edition, 2017, Module 8) suggests a simple attacking tactic in singles: move a player away from an area of weakness, then attack that area. Its example has the near-side player hitting to the other corners, eventually using the opponent's forehand forecourt.
Pace goes up once you are attacking
Once an attacking chance is established, the pace often rises. In the manual's example, the far-side player answers a short lift by moving fast backwards and hitting hard, downward shots.
Where to stand: further forward
The more pressure your opponent is under, the further forward your base should be. In the manual's example, a tight, early net shot puts the opponent under pressure, so the player stays further forward. A lift from the other side would then have to be very high and would lack depth, which lets the player stay forward and look to kill the shuttle at the net.
The one thing to change
After you have made your opponent move, move your own base up, not back. Stay ready for the short reply.
A game to try
Play a game where you get a bonus point if you win a rally with a stroke to a chosen corner of the court, or with the next stroke after you have played into that corner. Choose the corner before the game, and notice what you need to do first to open it.
Mistakes to avoid
- Attacking the area your opponent has just covered: move them away first.
- Staying at the back after a good net shot: your opponent's lift is weak, so go forward.
- Hitting hard before the chance is really there.
Limits
The manual gives the idea as an example, not a rule. A fast opponent, or one who reads you well, will change what works.
General practice advice: play within your limits and stop if something hurts.