Badminton Nanaimo Rating Scale

1.0 - Beginner

No or little prior experience of playing badminton.

1.5 - Novice

Learning to execute and receive the fundamental badminton strokes e.g. low serve, smash & drop shots but can participate in a competitive rally.

2.0 - Good Social Player

Ability to execute and receive all badminton shots with basic control and rudimentary use of tactics.

2.5 - Strong Social Player

Social players who typically have more than a year of badminton under their belt. Able to execute basic badminton shots and sustain rallies. These players still are working on their control and power. They typically lack footwork and struggle to play backhand shots.

3.0 - Lower Intermediate

Ability to execute and receive all badminton shots. Good control of the shuttle with some tactics to exploit opponents’ weaknesses. Can be inconsistent and inaccurate.

3.5 - Intermediate

Sound players, able to put up a good fight and return most shots. These players have honed their skills but there is often room for improvement. Typically, smashes lack of power, backhands are weak, and shots can be inconsistent and inaccurate.

4.0 - Upper Intermediate

Good players with competitive edge, able to rally and employ good tactics. Backhand and court position are potential weaknesses.

4.5 - Advanced

Mastery all shots, exceptional technical ability with advanced tactics and ability to rally, move opponents and create openings to finish points.

5.0 - Expert

​Strong players able to play the majority of shots well including steep powerful smashes and strong backhands. These players also make use of deception, possess good footwork, and on-court awareness.