Sounds like a job for… RACKET HEAD COVERS! What do you think Paul?

I would say that the most important thing, with players starting to learn to play their shots (especially younger players) is to learn to hit with a nice crisp and uncomplicated hitting action, being very relaxed and not worrying about power. Focus ONLY on the last part of the stroke – the final use of the forearm/wrist/fingers. This will help to teach the timing for the shot, rather than worrying about power. To be honest, the way the player follows through and how much body power they use is unlikely to make much of a difference! The main thing to get right is how to unload the power you have into a crisp hitting action! Focus on the point of contact, rather than how the rest of it looks!

I will let Paul talk about the details… but I think practicing using a racket head cover would help your players to get it right.

As a simple way of teaching the stroke, I particularly like this video:

The most important thing when teaching these shots to new players is not to focus too much on how far it goes, but on doing it right!

I know a coach who gets excellent results, and the first shot she teaches is a fast relaxed drop shot (using a simple tapping motion of the wrist/forearm/fingers) just letting the racket flop over the top and hit the shuttle down. This basic shot doesn't have the same “negative” effect for players who struggle with power – it doesn't matter how hard you hit, you just need to hit it right! But once you have learnt the basics of the shot, you then have the technique for a clear or smash or slower drop!

Good luck!

Yes – that is basically the correct grip for holding a racket for overhead forehand shots. When you hit the shuttle, you will change from a loose and relaxed grip to a slightly squeezed “firm” grip, to ensure the racket does not fly out of your hand, and also to help add a little power to your stroke. However – for a beginner, don't even think about this sort of stuff. Just use the correct grip, and try to get a nice relaxed high contact.

Finally – no, back pain is not normal. I suggest you may need to check your contact point – are you far enough behind the shuttle? Or are you arching your back in order to play the shot. The player in the video above is a high level (national) player, and can play to an almost professional standard.