Sports Value and Practical Dilemmas of Agility and Change-of-Direction in Badminton-specific Competition

Abstract

Focusing on agility and change-of-direction in badminton, this review examines the competitive value, biomechanical characteristics and training challenges involved, with the aim of offering practical references for training optimization. The analysis draws on existing literature across three areas: kinematic analysis, training intervention and injury mechanisms. Change-of-direction ability showed strong correlations with coordination (r = 0.91), movement speed (r = 0.86), reaction ability (r = 0.81) and lower limb explosive power (r = 0.79). In men's singles, an average rally contained 8.9 ± 2.1 shots, with 77.0 ± 7.5 total points played per match. Side-step footwork incurred a net energy cost of 19.59 J·kg⁻¹·m⁻¹, compared with 20.38 J·kg⁻¹·m⁻¹ for running footwork. Fatigue led to reduced knee flexion angles and greater valgus moments, raising the likelihood of anterior cruciate ligament injury. Training practice currently struggles with several issues, including a lack of variety in methods, insufficient individualization, and limited use of technological tools. These findings point to the need for a multi-factor training approach, better sport-specific assessment tools, and greater attention to load management and injury prevention.