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Much has changed since Dr. James Naismith’s original vision of “basketball” - a game he invented in the cold winter of 1891. Originally played using peach baskets as goals, basketball has undergone several revisions to its rules, equipment and dimensions. For example, the first orange ball was introduced in the late 1950’s and dribbling remained unheard of until this time as well. In its early years, basketball was primarily played at educational institutions such as colleges, high schools and YMCA’s and gained its popularity through spirited interscholastic competitions. For more on the development of this dynamic sport, visit our basketball history guide and our guide to the original 13 rules.

With the formation of high school, women’s, collegiate, professional and even international basketball teams, the dimensions and distances of basketball court lines have shifted and reshifted. These measurements include the length and width of the court, centerline, free throw line, 3-point line and more. Today, such features are regulated and sanctioned as follows (click on images for larger view):

• High School (NFHS) Basketball Court dimensions are 84′ Long x 50′ Wide. The distance of the Free-Throw Line from the Backboard is 15′. The distance of the 3-Point Line from the center of the Basket is 19′ and 9”.

• NCAA (Men’s Collegiate) Basketball Court Dimensions are 94′ L x 50′ W. The Distance of the Free-Throw Line from the Backboard is 15′. The distance of the 3-Point Line from the center of the Basket is 20′ and 9”.

NCAA Basketball Court Dimensions

Twenty years after the NCAA instituted the 3-Point Shot, the men’s basketball committee chose to redefine the distance of the 3-Point Line. Beginning in the 2008-2009 season, the 3-Point Line (the line that separates the three and two-point areas) moved back a foot to a distance of 20′ and 9” from the center of the basket. Previously on par with the high school 19′ and 9” distance, the space interval was not welcomed by all. Many coaches feared the new interval would significantly affect the number of 3-point shots attempted and successfully accomplished. Others hoped the new line would distinguish the true sharpshooters from the merely sufficient players. The line, based upon the results of its first season, has had little effect on shooting rates and national statistics. Women’s NCAA upheld the 19′ and 9” distance in their 2008-2009 season.

Professional Basketball:

• NBA Basketball Court Dimensions are 94′ L x 50′ W. The Distance of the Free-Throw Line from the Backboard is 15′. The distance of the 3-Point Line from the center of the Basket is 23′ and 9” (or 22′ at a point where a line parallel to the baseline intersects the long axis of the court and the center of the basket).

• International (FIBA) Basketball Court Dimensions are 91′ L and 10” x 49′  2.5” W. The Distance of the Free-Throw Line from the Backboard is 15.09′. The distance of the 3-Point Line from the center of the Basket is 20′ 6.1”.

Women’s Teams use the following regulations:

• Women’s NCAA Basketball Court Dimensions are 84′ L x 50′ W. The Distance of the Free-Throw Line from the Backboard is 15′. The distance of the 3-Point Line from the center of the Basket is 19′ and 9”.

• Women’s Professional (WNBA) Basketball Court Dimensions are 94′ L x 50′ W. The Distance of the Free-Throw Line from the Backboard is 15′. The distance of the 3-Point Line from the center of the Basket is 20′ 6.1”.

Below is a comparison Basketball Court Measurement chart for further visual aid:

And Youth Tournaments:

• Junior High School (Youth Tournaments) Basketball Court Dimensions are 74′ L x 42′ W. The Distance of the Free-Throw Line from the Backboard is 15′. The Distance of the 3-Point Line from the center of the Basket is 19′ 9”.

The basketball rim height is always 10′ above the floor (with exceptions for certain youth games.) When constructing a court for your home, school or facility, it is important to know and clearly mark these dimensions as well as areas such as the key, restricted arc area (if necessary) and so on. And don’t forget to use a good quality basketball court marking kit as well as other necessary equipment to get the job done properly and efficiently. Dazadi offers the several basketball court marking kits. We recommend the Easy Court Premium Basketball Court Marking Kit. This reliable kit includes a reusable cardboard stencil to help you set a regulation key and free-throw line (as well as a high school 3-point line), easy-to-use stencil paint and easy-to-follow instructions. Although you’ll see other kits (such as some we have on our site) selling for $20-$40, it is important to note that lesser quality kits are made of a thin newsprint and can be difficult to use. The long-lasting, quality work of the Easy Court is worth the added purchasing cost. But don’t just take our word for it. User reviews and ratings can be found on our product profiles and offer valuable insight into the quality of each product. Consumer testimony is an important resource when shopping for that perfect fit. We encourage you to take advantage of this awesome option.

An effective, low-impact total body workout can be difficult to achieve.  Not only is it hard to make the time to exercise, but the grueling exertion can be so unpleasant that we tend to skip the experience altogether.  The elliptical machine (also known as the Elliptical, Elliptical Crosstrainer and Elliptical Trainer) offers a uniquely versatile, comprehensive and less exhausting low-impact cardiovascular workout! Elliptical trainers feature an elongated elliptical stride motion that is more fluid, more natural and lower-impact. The elliptical provides a weight-bearing workout in which your feet never leave the pedals! This eliminates impact and minimizes stress on the joints, back and hips! Also, an elliptical allows you to work your arms and legs at the same time for a total body workout that doesn’t feel like one. The “Lower Perceived Rate of Exertion” means you’ve worked harder and burned more calories than you feel you have! There are many advantages to using an elliptical trainer and we at Dazadi offer an excellent selection from which to choose.

Some of the benefits of an elliptical crosstrainer include:

• Low-Impact: Because your feet never leave the pedals, there is no impact on your joints or other stress areas. This is called a weight-bearing workout. An elliptical trainer effectively protects your back, hips and joints from the wear and tear of repeated force. The elliptical stride motion is also more fluid and more natural, so you experience a less demanding exercise session. ProForm, Kettler and StarTrac manufacture among the best elliptical models for their price range. StarTrac even carries recumbent models for increased back and lumbar support. Older users, users with arthritis and those looking for a more natural stride, would benefit from the comprehensive yet low-impact workout of an elliptical.

• A Total Body Workout with Less Fatigue: Most ellipticals feature arm bars that offer upper body exercise. The resulting full body workout burns extra calories and works more muscles without added exhaustion. This is known as “Lower Perceived Rate of Exertion.” Because you feel like you’ve exercised less than you actually have- an elliptical trainer maximizes your workout gains with less fatigue. The ProForm Razor and FreeMotion ellipticals provide an exceptionally comfortable sweat-session.

• Versatility: Elliptical machines often allow you to vary your workout resistance, incline, target muscle groups, stride length, stride direction and even your immediate fitness goals.  With so many options, you can work different muscles at different settings for maximum results. Work just your full body or just your legs; vary your stride length for enhanced crosstraining; change the resistance level and incline for greater calorie-burn.  The Stamina Extended Stride Length is incredibly versatile and effective. You’re less likely to hit an exercise plateau with an elliptical thanks to adjustable settings and various goal-oriented user programs.

• Quieter: Good quality ellipticals like Kettler and FreeMotion will remain quiet at most intensity levels. Also, without constant footfall, the elliptical causes less pounding and machine movement.

Features to Look For:

• Forward and Reverse Directions: Some ellipticals allow you to move both forward and in reverse. This variety means you can work different muscle groups, increase calorie-burn and maximize workout results. The added challenge lets you reach your fitness goals faster, without the frustration of an a no-results day, week or month.

• Stride Length: Longer stride length more closely mimics a running motion and provides an overall better workout. A stride length of 18’’ or more (20’’ or more for optimal results) is considered more than sufficient. A higher quality machine with a longer, more effective stride length will prove itself a better investment. FreeMotion and StarTrac provide reasonable stride lengths.

• Adjustable Resistance: The ability to adjust resistance level increases the number of calories burned and permits training at different levels. Continually challenging your body with higher resistance and interval training will allow you to reach your fitness goals faster and without exercise plateaus. Some ellipticals, like those from FreeMotion and Kettler offer one-touch fingertip control for ultimate convenience. Eddy-current resistance systems are the best and are usually found in high-end trainers.

• Elliptical Incline: The ability to adjust the incline of the elliptical movement works different sets of muscles, increases calories burn and helps you to tone.

• Display, Programs and Fun Features: A good display console will give you as much feedback as possible. Knowing where you are in your workout with regard to time elapsed, calories burned, heart rate and more can be extremely motivating and very valuable. Many consoles will allow you to adjust settings such as speed, resistance and incline at the touch of a button. Less set-up time means more workout time. Built-in workout programs help you focus on specific fitness goals. The ProForm GameFit even includes fitness games! With heart rate, crosstraining and even hill climbing programs, you get more than just a standard cardio workout. Some ellipticals even include iPOD and MP3 players docks as well as integrated speakers for added entertainment, motivation and convenience.

You also want to ensure that your machine features comfortable foot pedals, a decent heart rate monitoring system and good warranty. Remember, it’s extremely important to find an elliptical trainer that meets your fitness needs. The right elliptical will help you reach your fitness goals at your own pace and with less debilitating fatigue.

Fitting in some workout time in an already busy schedule may seem like an impossible task. Then comes the problem of getting a great total body workout plus some cardiovascular training. Luckily, rowing machines are a great way to get the benefits of both workouts in a fun, effective, and low-impact way. They work your thighs, calves, arms, shoulders, and back while providing you with intense cardiovascular training. These great machines are easy to use and offer many options and features that allow users to get a personalized workout.

Rowing machines provide users with a great resistance-style workout. They require users to sit with their knees bent. They then push themselves backwards and pull themselves forward with the use of handles. Four different styles of rowing machines are available. Each generate resistance in a different way and have their own pros and cons. The four styles include hydraulic, magnetic, air, and water:

• Hydraulic - Hydraulic or piston rowing machines are great for those who are concerned about space or are on a budget. These indoor rowers are the most compact and fold up, so you can store them in a closet or under a bed. The resistance from a hydraulic machine comes from the amount of air or water stored in a cylinder or piston. The main downside to a hydraulic machine is that you get a less accurate rowing experience. Try the Stamina Body Trac Glider Rowing Machine or the Stamina Precision Rowing Machine.
• Magnetic - Magnetic rowing machines use a series of powerful electromagnets to control the resistance level. These machines are generally smoother and much quieter than an air, hydraulic, or water machine. They also often allow you to adjust the level of resistance. The main downside to magnetic machines is that they are difficult to store. They are perfect for home gyms, or any space that offers a permanent home for these larger machines. Try the Kettler Fitness Coach LS Rowing Machine or the Kettler Fitness X-Row E3 Rowing Machine.
• Air or Flywheel - Air or flywheel rowing machines have a giant fan or flywheel that generates resistance. Air machines provide an accurate rowing experience and are often used by off-season rowers for year-round training. They are ideal for serious trainers and fitness gurus. Air machines are great because they allow you to control the resistance on your own. The harder you pull, the faster the fan spins, and the more resistance is created. The downside to air machines is that they are noisier than the rest of their counterparts, and they are difficult to store. Try the Stamina ATS Air Rowing Machine.
• Water - Water rowing machines provide an accurate representation of actually rowing. These machines feature a tank where you add or subtract water, which allows you to control the amount of resistance. Much like actual rowing, the faster you row, the more resistance you create. Water machines also generate a soothing sound that is similar to actual rowing. The main downside to water machines is their footprint. They are large, difficult to store, and very heavy, so it is really only a good option if space permits it.

Rowing machines can also come with features such as speed controls, rowing functions, time, distance, and a display that shows the number of calories burned. Since rowing machines are available with so many options, you are sure to find a machine that works for you. So, stop wasting valuable time moving from machine to machine in hopes you’ll get a total body workout. Instead, spend a little time on one machine that targets your entire body. You’ll definitely appreciate all of the extra time you’ve created by simply changing your workout routine!

Once used for the medical assessment of heart and lung health, the treadmill ultimately set the standard for low-impact aerobic exercise equipment.  An essential exercise tool for every health club and most home gyms, the treadmill offers improved strength, endurance and muscle tone with reduced impact on knees and joints. This low-impact fitness aid provides shock absorption so you enjoy a safe and comprehensive cardiovascular workout.  We at Dazadi offer a broad selection of treadmills, with a variety of workout programs, speed and incline ranges, safety features and entertainment options so you can get the most out of your treadmill workout.

Running or walking on a treadmill provides several advantages over regular running or jogging. With uneven and often slick surfaces, running or walking outdoors can cause stress on the ankles, knees and lower back. Most treadmill decks are shock absorbent to offer the same cardiovascular and calorie-burning benefits with less damage to joints and muscles.  Some FreeMotion treadmills include the sophisticated “Reflex Cushion Technology”, with a deck that responds to your movement and flexes to cushion every step for maximum protection. The FreeMotion t5.2 offers Comfort Step adjustable cushioning for your choice of firmer or softer support.

Treadmills offer a safe and highly effective way to increase muscle tone and shed pounds. Not only do these machines place speed and workout level adjustment at your fingertips, but many include incline settings for enhanced training capability. Incline settings allow you to run hills or trails in the convenience of your home gym and at different levels each session. Incline training is especially beneficial for calorie-burning and the development of lean muscle. Research indicates that walking at an incline of 18% or greater can improve your endurance and advance your fitness level three times faster than running at higher speeds with a zero incline. The FreeMotion X3 Incline Trainer (link) features “Quick Incline” adjustment that reaches an incline of up to 40% at the touch of a button. The Kettler Verso TX1 and TX3 offer built-in incline interval and hill climb programs for uphill training.  With various settings for speed, incline and fitness level, a treadmill allows you to work at your own pace in order to target your own individual fitness needs.

Built-in workout programs are another fantastic benefit to owning a treadmill. These preset programs allow you to work through a great set of proven exercises, or create your own workouts to target your personal fitness goals. Programs can be determined by a set amount of time, distance-covered or number of calories burned. Epic, FreeMotion and StarTrac include programs that adjust your settings as you exercise to meet a minimum heart rate. Dazadi also carries NordicTrack, a trusted name in aerobic and fitness equipment. With these low-impact personal trainers, you will witness an improvement in your energy level, fitness goals and physique.

Unlike a health club, a home gym offers ultimate privacy as well as your pick of entertainment options. Place the Treadmill in a room with a television for a welcome distraction or blast your favorite workout tunes for a motivating beat. In fact, some Treadmills include integrated entertainment features, such as speakers or television screens, to make your exercise session as convenient and enjoyable as possible. The Freemotion t7.4 features an integrated entertainment system with a digital TV, dual speakers and a cable that connects to your DVD player or iPOD. Some treadmills even include integrated fans to keep you cool and comfortable. The low-impact, highly-effective workout provided by a treadmill is among the best ways to gain a better body, enhanced strength and a healthier perspective on weight loss.

The game of badminton has a history that spans all the way back to ancient Greece and Egypt. Originally known as battledore and shuttlecock, players hit feathered shuttlecocks with rackets back and forth similar to modern badminton. It was also a popular game in India during the 18th century where it was known as Poona. When British Army Officers were stationed there, they enjoyed the game of Poona and introduced it to their peers upon their return to England. In 1973, the Duke of Beaufort had a gathering at his country home named “Badminton” in Gloucestershire where the Indian version of the game was publicly introduced. Lacking a name, party goers referred to it as “the game of badminton,” and the name has stuck ever since. The modern style of game play is very similar to the original game. Players still use rackets to hit shuttlecocks back and forth, but now they do so over a net.

A popular game and hobby, badminton requires little equipment, but don’t be fooled! There is still some skill involved in buying the correct shuttlecocks, nets, and rackets. At Dazadi, we understand the dilemma that could arise out of figuring out which equipment is best for you. Luckily, we have a variety of products for every age, skill level, and taste.

Rackets - Arguably the most important piece of equipment, choosing the correct racket can help you improve your swing and ultimately your overall game. When looking at different rackets, you want to keep shape, stiffness, and material in mind.

• Shape: The shape of the head of the racket can affect your power, control, and the size of your “sweet spot.” The sweet spot is the place on the racket where you will get the most effective hit. The larger the sweet spot, the more successful your swing. Rackets with a egg or oval shapes are the most traditional badminton rackets. They offer a more concentrated sweet spot. Isometric or square heads offer a larger sweet spot, which is great for beginners.
• Stiffness: Choosing a stiffer racket can provide you with greater power, but are a little more difficult to manage. Stronger, more experienced players may want to try out a stiffer racket. Beginners may want to start with a lighter, more flexible racket to build up some strength.
• Material: Professional rackets are made of carbon fiber composite. Rackets made of steel or aluminum are great for beginning or recreational play and are usually cheaper than the carbon fiber models. Great steel rackets include the Champion Sports All-Steel Badminton Racket and the SSG Twin 200 Badminton Racket.

Shuttlecocks - Bidding a nod to the original name, shuttlecocks are the piece that is hit back and forth with the rackets. They are commonly known as “birdies” and were traditionally made out of actual feathers. Today, the feathered versions can still be found, but plastic or nylon versions are more affordable and durable. The MacGregor Economy Shuttlecock is a lightweight birdie that is great for practice and play!

Nets - Most badminton play takes place at a park or rec center, but for those lucky enough to have a badminton court in their home, nets are necessary. When buying a net, you need to keep the material and dimensions in mind. A great net features mesh with squares that are around 3/4” wide. Look for a net that is about 2.5′ tall with a 1.5” headband such as the Champion Sports 12-Ply Nylon Badminton Net. The ply of a net is also important to keep in mind. The higher the ply, the stronger the net.

After you have purchased all of the proper equipment, you can begin practicing your game. Badminton will have you running for a great cardiovascular workout, and you’ll work on toning and building your leg and arm muscles. So, have a great time, get active, and learn the benefits of a fun game that has been enjoyed for centuries!