Pausing according to
Tor Lowry’s description of Efren Reyes is not the pause
according to Shortstop on Pool. Efren pauses with his cue tip right in back of cue ball. He then does two strokes (frontstroke and backstroke, and frontstroke and backstroke) before hitting the ball. Shortstop on Pool pauses at the end of the backstroke and before the frontstroke and hitting the ball.
Tor Lowry claims this is especially important in stressful situations where Efren Reyes' method reduces tension and prevents missing the shot due to a poor stroke. This agrees with maha's post that the pause at the end of the backstroke makes things worse for some in tense situations.
Shortstop on Pool disagrees finding that the pause at the end of the backstroke
reduces tension because of this moment of silence. Not only that but the pause helps from a physical effect. Pausing prevents the muscles and tendons of the backstroke conflicting with the muscles and tendons of the front stroke and a resultant bad effect on the stroke.
Reconciling both approaches, Efren Reyes approach works despite the ill effect associated with battling muscles and tendons. Shortstop on Pool's method works despite the greater tension in stress situations because of the pause. Efren Reyes method is best for players more susceptible to stress while Shortstop on Pool's is best for the player that is more calm, collected, and cool.
Unreconcilable is both methods contention they are best in stressful situations.
