Spins, pushes, and flicks are three of the most useful net techniques. Net spins require great feeling between the shuttle and the racket, and when used effectively can often catch the opponent off-guard and create easy opportunities. A net spin can change the pace and there is no need to do a winning net spin. The net spin shall help you create an opportunity to attack or return the shuttle.

There are several kinds of net spins. The inside-out net spin, the outside-in net spin, and the U-shaped net spin are among the basics. 

OUTSIDE-IN NET SPIN

The backhand outside-in net spin is played with your hand facing down, racket sticking out, and wrist moving right when you reach for the shuttle. Very subtle movement is needed in your wrist. Simply find the cork, and give it a little pat with the racket. The looser the fingers are, the easier you’re going to feel the cork and put into it just the right amount of force.

Beware of the space between your palm and the grip, especially on the forehand side. Hold the racket with a relaxed hand and let the racket head kind of guide you to the cork. Give the racket head a little angle toward your hitting direction to produce more spin; however, beginners to this technique should spend more time in feeling the easy pat on the cork to gain better control, before learning to put more spin to it.

INSIDE-OUT NET SPIN

The backhand inside-out net spin is played with your hand facing down, racket sticking out, and wrist moving left when you reach for the shuttle. This shot is often used when your opponent tries to hit a cross-court net shot, so one thing that makes your inside-out net spin successful is the ability to anticipate the shot, and to block it with a quick move in the wrist which will help to absorb the pace of the shot and make the shuttle fall steeply over the net. Catch it when the shuttle is on the high point, or the inside-out net spin won’t make much sense.

The similar goes with the forehand side; the hand faces up and the wrist moves right. The aim of the inside-out net spin is to force your opponent to lift the shuttle high up passively, so you can gain the initiative in the rally.

Most frequent mistakes about net spins:

- Too much arm

A good net spin requires a delicate use of power, through the wrist and fingers instead of the arm.

- Too tight

Soft hands are important when you try to hit a net spin. Holding the racket too tightly will harm your control over it.

- Too late

Reach out your racket early and let your body kind of follow through.

- Too high, too low, and too stiff

To make an easy principle in the preparation of hitting a net spin, putting your racket at shoulder height usually won’t go wrong.

Final Reminder

Never step back to the middle of the court too soon after launching a net spin, whether you’re on a singles or doubles court. Stay alert to the movement of your opponent in case of counter-spin. Keep your hand and wrist very soft at all time.