So, you've played Badminton before - whether it be with some friends in a sports hall, at school or just an activity in a social club or at an outing. You feel interested in the sport and want to take it a bit further than a casual play every now and then...

We've made a simple guide to allow you to take it that step further.

Every Badminton player needs their own stuff. Hiring a racket and shuttles is a great idea for casual every now-and-then play but if you want to start playing and be part of a team, we recommend you get your own kit. This will allow you to maintain it to your own preferred level and feel more comfortable wearing/using it. Here is a run down of the things we recommend you to purchase from your preferred sports retailer.

• Racket
• Shuttlecocks
• Comfortable sport shoes
• Sporting t-shirt & shorts

There are many clubs out there, up and down the country. We have an extensive list of clubs for you to look through organised by region. If you'd like click here to view them.

Alternatively, if you can't find a club near you or maybe you feel there is a gap in the 'badminton club market' and want to get your own club then why not start your own club! You can find information about that by clicking here.

Most clubs have an 'Annual Membership Fee' and a 'Match Fee'. The fee is determined by the club secretary so please do not hesitate to contact them to find out more.

So... You've got your kit, you're in a club playing, building & practicing your skills. You now want to put them to the test and take on other players outwith your club.

Before you can enter BADMINTONscotland hosted competitions, you must be affiliated with BADMINTONscotland as an individual or with a club, you can find out more about 'Individual Affiliation' here. There are many other benefits to becoming affiliated with BADMINTONscotland, including free tickets to the annually held Scottish International Championships.

BADMINTONscotland host a range of competitions throughout the country and would love for you to attend one of them. Have a look at our Event Calendar here for a list of upcoming competitions and other other events that we're hosting.