Shuttle court measurements define the exact size, layout, and markings of a badminton court, ensuring fair play and consistent performance for players at every level. As per Badminton World Federation (BWF) standards, a shuttle court follows fixed dimensions for length, width, net height, and service areas, making accuracy extremely important while planning or constructing a court.
This guide explains shuttle court measurements in a simple, practical way-so even a 10th-grade student can understand it—while still covering professional-level details for coaches, academies, and facility owners.
Why Shuttle Court Measurements Matter
Correct shuttle court measurements are not just about following rules. They directly affect:
- Fair play – Every player competes under the same conditions
- Player safety – Enough free space prevents injuries
- Skill development – Proper dimensions build correct footwork and muscle memory
- Tournament eligibility – Only standard courts can host official matches
Even small errors—like slightly wider sidelines or an incorrect service line—can change the game dynamics and lead to disputes during play.
Official Shuttle Court Measurements (BWF Standards)
According to the Badminton World Federation, shuttle court measurements are fixed and globally accepted.
Overall Court Size
- Court shape: Rectangle
- Total length: 44 feet (13.40 meters)
- Width (Doubles): 20 feet (6.10 meters)
- Width (Singles): 17 feet (5.18 meters)
The length remains the same for both singles and doubles. Only the width changes.
Shuttle Court Measurements at a Glance (Table)
| Key Dimension | Singles | Doubles | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Length | 44 feet | 44 feet | Same for both formats |
| Overall Width | 17 feet | 20 feet | Doubles uses outer sidelines |
| Net Height (Posts) | 5 ft 1 inch | 5 ft 1 inch | Fixed height |
| Net Height (Center) | 5 feet | 5 feet | Slight sag allowed |
| Short Service Line | 6.5 feet from net | 6.5 feet from net | Front serve limit |
| Long Service Line | Baseline | 8.2 feet from baseline | Singles vs doubles difference |
| Line Width | 40 mm | 40 mm | Mandatory BWF rule |
| Minimum Free Zone | 5–6.5 feet | 5–6.5 feet | Safety area |
| Court Diagonal | ~48.3 feet | ~48.3 feet | Used for layout checking |
Understanding Court Lines in Shuttle Court Measurements
All lines are part of the playing area and must be 40 mm wide, clearly visible, and preferably white or yellow.
Boundary Lines
- Baseline: Back boundary of the court
- Sidelines:
- Inner lines for singles
- Outer lines for doubles
A shuttle landing on the line is considered in.
Singles vs Doubles Shuttle Court Measurements
Singles Court Measurements
- Width limited to 17 feet
- Uses inner sidelines
- Full court length is used for rallies and service
Singles badminton focuses on precision, stamina, and controlled movement.
Doubles Court Measurements
- Full width of 20 feet
- Uses outer sidelines
- Service court length changes for serving only
Doubles badminton requires faster reactions and better teamwork due to the wider court.
Read More – Shuttle vs badminton
Service Court Measurements Explained Simply
Service courts are the most confusing part of shuttle court measurements, but they’re easy once broken down.
Key Service Lines
- Short service line:
- 6.5 feet from the net
- Shuttle must cross this line on serve
- Long service line:
- Singles: Back boundary line
- Doubles: 8.2 feet inside the baseline
- Center line:
- Divides left and right service courts
Each service court is used diagonally during serves.
Net Height and Net Placement
The net is a critical element in shuttle court measurements.
Net Specifications
- Height at posts: 5 feet 1 inch (1.55 m)
- Height at center: 5 feet (1.524 m)
- Net width: At least 20 feet
- Net color: Dark (black preferred)
Net Posts
- Placed outside the doubles sidelines
- Must not lean inward
- Height must be exact as per BWF rules
Free Space Around the Shuttle Court
A badminton court is not just the playing area. Free space around it is equally important.
Minimum Recommended Free Zones
- Sides: 5 to 6.5 feet
- Back (baselines): 5 to 6.5 feet
This space allows players to chase shuttles safely and prevents collisions with walls or spectators.
Indoor vs Outdoor Shuttle Court Measurements
The core shuttle court measurements remain the same for both indoor and outdoor courts, but execution differs.
Indoor Courts
- Ceiling height: Minimum 29.5 feet
- Controlled lighting (around 500 lux)
- No wind interference
Outdoor Courts
- Same court dimensions
- Requires weather-resistant flooring
- Wind protection recommended
- Extra free space preferred
Importance of Accurate Measurements in Training
Accurate shuttle court measurements help players:
- Develop correct footwork patterns
- Judge shuttle landing accurately
- Improve serve consistency
- Transition smoothly into competitive play
Practicing on non-standard courts often leads to poor habits that are difficult to correct later.
Common Mistakes in Shuttle Court Measurements
Many courts fail inspections due to simple but critical errors:
- Incorrect court width for doubles
- Service lines placed too close or too far
- Net height not measured properly
- Faded or uneven line markings
- Insufficient free space around the court
Avoiding these mistakes saves time, money, and future rework.
How to Check Shuttle Court Measurements
Basic tools used during layout:
- Measuring tape or laser distance meter
- Chalk line for marking
- Spirit level for net posts
- Diagonal measurement for squareness
Checking diagonals is a simple way to ensure the court is perfectly rectangular.
Youth and Practice Shuttle Court Measurements
For beginners and children, scaled-down courts are sometimes used for training:
- 75% size courts for juniors
- Lower net height
- Proportionate service lines
However, for serious training, transitioning to full shuttle court measurements is essential.
Maintenance Tips to Preserve Court Measurements
Correct dimensions must be maintained over time.
- Regular cleaning to prevent line fading
- Avoid harsh chemicals on line markings
- Check net height monthly
- Repair cracks before they affect measurements
Good maintenance keeps the court compliant and safe.
FAQsÂ
1. What are the official shuttle court measurements?
The court is 44 feet long. Width is 17 feet for singles and 20 feet for doubles, with a net height of 5 feet 1 inch at the posts.
2. Why are shuttle court measurements different for singles and doubles?
Singles focuses on individual movement, while doubles requires wider coverage for two players.
3. How much free space is needed around a shuttle court?
At least 5 to 6.5 feet on all sides for safety and smooth play.
4. Are service court measurements the same for singles and doubles?
The short service line is the same, but the long service line differs during serves.
Final Thoughts
Shuttle court measurements are the backbone of badminton. Whether you are building a new court, upgrading an existing one, or simply learning the game, understanding these dimensions ensures fairness, safety, and better performance. Always follow BWF standards and double-check measurements before finalizing any court layout.
For official rules and diagrams, you can refer to the Badminton World Federation Laws of Badminton on their official website.
