Get Inspired: How to get into badminton

How do I start?

Visit these club locators in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, or contact your local leisure centre if you want to play casually.

What is it?

• Badminton is the world's fastest racquet sport, there's a raised net and you can play singles or doubles.

• The aim is to hit a shuttlecock, a cone shaped object usually made of feathers with a cork or rubber base, over the net with your racquet.

• If the shuttlecock lands inside your opponent's half, or if they fail to return it back over the net in the rally, you win the point.

• The first to 21 points will win a game, and a match is a best out of three games.

Is it for me?

Badminton is one of the most played sports in the United Kingdom, with over a million of us taking to the court each month - so, whether you want to play some casual rallies with a pal or have a competitive game, badminton is for anyone. It is an easy sport to pick up, most leisure centres have courts and you can hire racquets and shuttlecocks.

What to expect when I start?

• Competitive badminton is normally played indoors but you can play outdoors for fun, either in your garden or, if the UK ever sees more than a day's sunshine in a year, on the beach.

• You will get an all-round workout as your body will be leaping, lunging, twisting, turning and stretching.

• Badminton improves co-ordination, balance, agility and speed.

• It can also boost self-esteem and help develop communication skills.

• Para-Badminton has a variety of categories and competitions - wheelchair, learning disabilities, physical disabilities (upper and lower body), hearing-impaired disabilities and transplant players. Visit websites in Wales, England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. to find out more.

To get you in the mood

All clubs need a chair, secretary and treasurer to help things run smoothly as well as officials, coaches and judges. Whatever role you're interested in, Join In has opportunities to volunteer in your area.