Ask a mountaineer why he/she loves to climb a mountain and the reply invariably would be the classic: “Because it’s there!”

Now, try asking a badminton player why he/she loves the sport and chances are you’d get an assortment of answers.

At the risk of analyzing the matter to death, join me now as we explore the reasons why WE love this sport the way we do.

Reason # 1 – Badminton’s Unique Ball
The shuttlecock may be considered as badminton’s most distinctive feature. It’s one of a kind because it has feathers; and in flight, it is unlike any ball that you may have encountered in other racket sports.

Because of its plumes and conical shape, the shuttle stays in the air longer. And that makes for a whole world of difference during play.

Reason #2 – It’s Challenging
Call it “X-treme chess” or “physical chess.” Brawn alone is not enough to win in badminton; brains are essential to focus on the game, to anticipate the play, to visualize, to devise tactics, to react – all in the span of a second or so. There are a hundred things to remember … well, maybe less than a hundred, to get you ready for the rally.

Reason #3 – Anybody Can Play
Badminton’s newfound popularity also stems from the fact that almost anybody can play a reasonably enjoyable game. Male and female, young and old, beginners and advanced baddicts can play together and still have a great time.

Reason #4 – You get a good workout
Touted to be the fastest racket sport on the planet, badminton will surely give you a great cardio exercise. Buhay ang dugo mo is an oft-repeated assertion of badders. And talk about the sweat! “Grabey!” as the younger set would say.

Reason #5 – You get to socialize
It seems that we don’t mind the queuing and the waiting as long as we can catch up with our buddies about any topic under the ozone layer.

A point of interest could be the sportswear and gear of the players. You could call it a sub-sport…  dressing up in matching apparel while others appreciate the fashion show.

And the laughter and shouts during exciting rallies! Not only by spectators but even by the players themselves! Where else can you scream your lungs out and laugh at your errors?  Only in badminton!

Reason #6 – Badminton is a civilized sport
Do I see raised eyebrows out there? Despite the fact that the game’s objective basically is to give your opponents hell; badminton is relatively a genteel sport.

We say “sorry” when we (inadvertently?) hit them with the shuttle; we shake hands or touch rackets at the net after the match; and we don’t smash at the lady player too often in mixed doubles … well, at least we try not to. (sheepish grin)

But really, we make an effort to be civil for a practical purpose – to keep the peace.

Remember that you are facing your opponents only a few feet away. Short tempers could lead to other sports – kendo, if you use your racket; or boxing, if you decide to lose the racket, then get up close and personal.

Good manners and goodwill serve to defuse the tensions that arise from intense competition and misunderstanding.

Reason #7 – It’s schedule-friendly
Did you know that you could play badminton anytime from morning till midnight (and even beyond)? Of course you do. And with scores of badminton halls that have sprung up, we have a wide array of venues to choose from – rain or shine.

Reality Check
No, I haven’t been hiding under a rock. I am well aware of badminton’s dark side: the host of physical injuries; the sandbagging and unfair leveling practices; the illegal serves … @!#!*!%!L! (Puso mo! Puso mo!)

And yet …

We could choose to focus on the bright side, couldn’t we?

Consider Paul’s advice:
“… whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – think about such things.”

 - Philippians 4: 8 NIV

And so …

Why do we love this game?
At the risk of oversimplifying, join me now as we proclaim with feeling –