One of the fastest drawing sports in India is Kabaddi Tactics. Even across the world. Speed, strategy and strength are shown in the sport. You watch and get more excited for the play. A clear simple guidance is provided to every beginner. For understanding the tactics of kabaddi. It doesn’t matter if you are a new player or a fan. Or somebody who is exploring the spot for the first time. This article will help you understand the essentials in an easy way.
What Is Kabaddi? A Quick Overview
Played between two sides of seven players each is how kabaddi is played. It is a team sport. The objective of the spot is simple. The Rider is one player. Who enters the opponent half and tags as many defenders as possible. And then return back to their house without being tackled. It is all done in a single breath while chanting “kabaddi, kabaddi.”
Understanding the Basics of Kabaddi Tactics

Two major actions are used in the Kabaddi tactics:
- Raiding: it is when you attack the opponent’s court.
- Defending: it is when you stop the opponent’s raider from escaping.
You need to have planned properly. Be aware and make coordination.
1. Raiding Tactics for Beginners
The heart of kabaddi is Raiding. To out smart, the defenders, successfully, mixes timing, and intelligence. Some friendly tactics are here:
a. The Bonus Line Trick
The bonus line is often ignored by the new players. But it has become one of the most powerful tools. If you step over the bonus line with one foot, Rider earns a point. Without touching the defender. When the defenders are close to the back line, this is the best move. You need to have practice maintaining balance and quick footwork.
b. Hand Touch and Toe Touch
The simplest way to score is by touching the defenders. Some common techniques that you should consider are:
- Hand Touch: it is a quick forward reach.
- Toe Touch: A sharp kick aimed at defenders who stand low.
The Rider stays at a safe distance through these moves. And they can still score. More than the strength you need to maintain speed and accuracy.
c. The Surprise Attack
You can catch the defenders off guard. With a sudden burst of speed. Beginner raiders should learn to:
- Patiently wait.
- Observe the positions of the defender.
- Attack at the right moment.
The moment of the match can be changed by a well-timed surprise raid.
d. Escape Skills
The biggest challenge is escaping. Even after tagging a defender. Basic escape techniques include:
- Diving
- Turning
- Sliding
- Changing direction instantly
If you practice the skills, even as a beginner, you can stay predictable. And save from all the tackles that are going to come in the way.
Read Also:- Mental Preparation Tips For Kabaddi Players
2. Defensive Tactics for Beginners
A team that can defend nicely can control the match easily. The teamwork shines in the defence. Some of the tactics that are defensive and will help are:
a. The Chain Formation
To form a chain two defenders can join hands. More space will be covered in this way. And the trapping of raiders will also be done. For beginners, chain defense teaches:
- Trust
- Coordination
- Positioning
b. Corner and Cover Roles
There is some job that is assigned to each defender:
- Corners: responsible for ankle holds. And they are supposed to be standing at the ends.
- Covers: you need to handle the upper body tackles. And you should be standing near the center.
The confusion will be prevented. And the defence will be standing stronger.
c. Strong Holds and Tackles
Good tackles do not depend on power. They depend more on techniques. Basic holds include:
- Ankle Hold
- Thigh Hold
- Waist Hold
If You Are a beginner. You can practice stable body posture and timing. When the raider is off balance. Then you can tackle them.
d. Reading the Raider
A smart defender watches:
- Footwork
- Breathing
- Body language
- Direction of movement
The Raider’s next move will be easily predicted. You can defend as well as you observe it.
The Importance of Teamwork in Kabaddi

The sport is not a one-man show. There should be team coordination. With every raid and every tackle. Keeping communication between the team is important. Players must:
- Call out formations
- Signal for support
- Alert each other about raider's moves
You stay ahead of the opponent if you communicate well with your team.
Fitness and Training for Kabaddi Beginners
Beginners don’t need a very good routine. This sport demands fitness only. Focus on the basics:
1. Strength Building
Practice:
- Push-ups
- Squats
- Lunges
- Core exercises
If you do the tackle and escape nicely strength lies in it.
2. Agility and Speed
In seconds, you can make the kabaddi move happen. Improve agility with:
- Ladder drills
- Cone training
- Short sprints
3. Breathing Control
The Raider should most importantly keep chanting “kabaddi, kabaddi”. They should have good lung capacity. You can improve your performances by doing deep breathing exercises and stamina drills.
Common Mistakes Beginners Should Avoid
Mistakes are made even by the enthusiastic players. That is normal. Here are the most common ones:
a. Overconfidence in Raiding
Without observing the positions . Some players rush into the opponent's half. Before raiding, you need to always make a plan.
b. Poor Defensive Positioning
Gaps will be opened up if you stand too close or too far from the raider. You need to learn proper spacing.
c. Forgetting Footwork
You can be balanced and quick by Footwork. Easy tackles will be there with Sloppy footwork.
d. Not Communicating
Confusion will be created by keeping Silence during defense. Always speak up.
Read More:- Top Kabaddi Academies in Uttar Pradesh
Final Thoughts: Start Your Kabaddi Journey with Confidence
The sport is very exciting, intense, Kabaddi Tactics and full of strategic depth. There are some tactics that can be practiced to excel in this sport. You can win every match with the patients and teamwork. Even new players will be encouraged by regular practice and staying disciplined. So enjoy the sport and keep up with the spirit.

