How long should it take to become a very good pool player?

[Lock N Load]

Sure you're right when you know you're right!

When i want to think of myself as a great player I go play 1st graders....just like when I start to think I might have to lose a few pounds I hang around with my fat friends....problem solved

Houmatroy,
Is that why you always see an ugly woman with a pretty woman!! He, he, He. Shame on you, Houmatroy....
Regards,
Lock N Load.

 

[chefjeff]

Hey, Lock....somewhere is a thread about this book and the time frame.

Try this link: http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/books/article4969415.ece

There, you'll read an article about Gladwell's 10,000 hour theory. Ten grand hours would take a working guy/gal about 5-10 years of consistent, dedicated work to become "good." S/he'd have to hit hundreds of balls a day for years.

Yeah, some do it faster, but I bet they have a lot of previous experience in some other ball game or some other discipline that translates to pool.

Some say this isn't necessary, but the point I personally got from Galdwell was: Don't think any such endeavor is easy or just comes without a lot of work....a lot of work. Take the time to do it. (Lessons, gambling, tourneys, leagues, etc. are part of that 10,000 hours, btw, not additions to it.) Your students deserve to know the amount of work necessary to reach their goals. B/S'ing means disappointment down the road.

Jeff Livingston


EDIT to fix links and say: I'm 57, been playing pool since the 50's, seriously for the last 25 years or so. I AM STILL IMPROVING at my age, with a declining body, bad eyes, shaky arms, etc. Yet, because of the process I put myself in years ago, I still improve (and THAT is my main goal, not to be a superstar but to constantly improve...what more could I ask?)

 

[ShootingArts]

late to the party

Hello AZB Members,
I would like to get your input/response on how long it should take to become a very good pool player! How many hours of practice, amount of focus, what helps a person learn to play good, does a person learn the game better with a good teacher, can a person learn to be a good player if self taught, what you think teaches a person the best way to learn the game? Thanks in advance.... I teach a couple of people how to improve their game, and would like some good input!
Regards,
Lock N Load.

Late to the party and I haven't read the thread. When I started playing pool almost the only way to gain any information was to pay for it by the game. I paid thousands in the first few years learning. After a couple years playing 50-60 hours a week I was a good player, "gooder" than the local average which wasn't saying much. Another 5-6 years of putting the same hours in I was probably a very good player. The few books concerning playing were largely worthless and I was 99% self taught. Video, internet, quality books, and people willing to share now makes learning far easier but there is still no substitute for hard work.

I could have gotten a Phd with less effort. The only saving graces were that I truly loved pool and after that first couple of years it either supplemented my income or was my sole income. A short few years at the peak of my game then I moved on to other things for twenty years. When I came back I found out it isn't like riding a bicycle, I'd have to put a lot more time and work into pool than I am able to commit to get back the 85% of my game that was my goal when I picked up a stick again.

Hu

 

[catpool9]

Late to the party and I haven't read the thread. When I started playing pool almost the only way to gain any information was to pay for it by the game. I paid thousands in the first few years learning. After a couple years playing 50-60 hours a week I was a good player, "gooder" than the local average which wasn't saying much. Another 5-6 years of putting the same hours in I was probably a very good player. The few books concerning playing were largely worthless and I was 99% self taught. Video, internet, quality books, and people willing to share now makes learning far easier but there is still no substitute for hard work.

I could have gotten a Phd with less effort. The only saving graces were that I truly loved pool and after that first couple of years it either supplemented my income or was my sole income. A short few years at the peak of my game then I moved on to other things for twenty years. When I came back I found out it isn't like riding a bicycle, I'd have to put a lot more time and work into pool than I am able to commit to get back the 85% of my game that was my goal when I picked up a stick again.

Hu

I think most agree that to become a very good poolplayer requires dedication to the game, which equals out to be years, more for some less for others, the player that works the hardest at the game to become better gets the mostest! this is what makes the game so great, and gives the player a feeling of great acomplishment, which is most deserved, and the recognition from their peers.

All poolplayers have a Badge of Honor, some wear it to show , some don't.


David Harcrow

 

[Lock N Load]

Hello ChefJeff, I really appreciate this.

Hey, Lock....somewhere is a thread about this book and the time frame.

Try this link: http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/books/article4969415.ece

There, you'll read an article about Gladwell's 10,000 hour theory. Ten grand hours would take a working guy/gal about 5-10 years of consistent, dedicated work to become "good." S/he'd have to hit hundreds of balls a day for years.

Yeah, some do it faster, but I bet they have a lot of previous experience in some other ball game or some other discipline that translates to pool.

Some say this isn't necessary, but the point I personally got from Galdwell was: Don't think any such endeavor is easy or just comes without a lot of work....a lot of work. Take the time to do it. (Lessons, gambling, tourneys, leagues, etc. are part of that 10,000 hours, btw, not additions to it.) Your students deserve to know the amount of work necessary to reach their goals. B/S'ing means disappointment down the road.

Jeff Livingston


EDIT to fix links and say: I'm 57, been playing pool since the 50's, seriously for the last 25 years or so. I AM STILL IMPROVING at my age, with a declining body, bad eyes, shaky arms, etc. Yet, because of the process I put myself in years ago, I still improve (and THAT is my main goal, not to be a superstar but to constantly improve...what more could I ask?)

You have really shown a true interest in my purpose for this thread. I checked out the links you sent me. Thanks very much. This is what I am looking for, not problems. I am trying to help my student as best as I can, now you have helped me help them. Thanks again. Take care.
Regards.
Lock N Load.

 

[Lock N Load]

You are welcome to the party anytime, Hu.

Late to the party and I haven't read the thread. When I started playing pool almost the only way to gain any information was to pay for it by the game. I paid thousands in the first few years learning. After a couple years playing 50-60 hours a week I was a good player, "gooder" than the local average which wasn't saying much. Another 5-6 years of putting the same hours in I was probably a very good player. The few books concerning playing were largely worthless and I was 99% self taught. Video, internet, quality books, and people willing to share now makes learning far easier but there is still no substitute for hard work.

I could have gotten a Phd with less effort. The only saving graces were that I truly loved pool and after that first couple of years it either supplemented my income or was my sole income. A short few years at the peak of my game then I moved on to other things for twenty years. When I came back I found out it isn't like riding a bicycle, I'd have to put a lot more time and work into pool than I am able to commit to get back the 85% of my game that was my goal when I picked up a stick again.

Hu

Hello Hu,
I am very happy that you joined the party. I love your response and input. I appreciate it very much. I agree with you on all counts of your response.

When I was in high school and was working my way through it after school. Their was a guy called Shorty, who used to take my little money for my bills every week. As soon as I got where I could beat him he would not play me any more! After that I had to give up weight to get a game. End of story. Although, the story lasted a a few years. I made it short here. Thanks again Hu.
Thank you for your kindness as well.
Regards,
Lock N Load.

 

[ShootingArts]

glad you liked the post

Hello Hu,
I am very happy that you joined the party. I love your response and input. I appreciate it very much. I agree with you on all counts of your response.

When I was in high school and was working my way through it after school. Their was a guy called Shorty, who used to take my little money for my bills every week. As soon as I got where I could beat him he would not play me any more! After that I had to give up weight to get a game. End of story. Although, the story lasted a a few years. I made it short here. Thanks again Hu.
Thank you for your kindness as well.
Regards,
Lock N Load.

Glad you liked the post. Seems we all have some folks like Shorty around when we are trying to learn. Most only want the easiest of pickings and there isn't a spot you can give them to get them to pick up a stick once you can play a little.

Hu

 

[elvicash]

However long it takes to hit 1 million balls...

Are you really getting close when you hit ball 980,037 ir is it KABLAM lights out on ball 1,000,000 and then you can really play. I have to be at least on ball 700,000 or so and I still hit the rail too much even though I do find the pocket occasionally. 300,000 thousand to go and then I wll be a really good pool player, got to get off here and get back to the table.

 

[elvicash]

Hey, Lock....somewhere is a thread about this book and the time frame.

Try this link: http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/books/article4969415.ece

There, you'll read an article about Gladwell's 10,000 hour theory. Ten grand hours would take a working guy/gal about 5-10 years of consistent, dedicated work to become "good." S/he'd have to hit hundreds of balls a day for years.

Yeah, some do it faster, but I bet they have a lot of previous experience in some other ball game or some other discipline that translates to pool.

Some say this isn't necessary, but the point I personally got from Galdwell was: Don't think any such endeavor is easy or just comes without a lot of work....a lot of work. Take the time to do it. (Lessons, gambling, tourneys, leagues, etc. are part of that 10,000 hours, btw, not additions to it.) Your students deserve to know the amount of work necessary to reach their goals. B/S'ing means disappointment down the road.

Jeff Livingston


EDIT to fix links and say: I'm 57, been playing pool since the 50's, seriously for the last 25 years or so. I AM STILL IMPROVING at my age, with a declining body, bad eyes, shaky arms, etc. Yet, because of the process I put myself in years ago, I still improve (and THAT is my main goal, not to be a superstar but to constantly improve...what more could I ask?)

Jeff you read that book. If so how is it???

This is Dana in Indy its been a while since I saw you at WBM's torture chamber what a dungeon. Hope you are htting them well.

 

[Lock N Load]

Just right, Hu!

Glad you liked the post. Seems we all have some folks like Shorty around when we are trying to learn. Most only want the easiest of pickings and there isn't a spot you can give them to get them to pick up a stick once you can play a little.

Hu

Hu,
You are right. If I offered him the 6 out he would not play me. It is the same way now as well. Everyone wants easy pickings. Some people have no regard for person nor respect for person! Only themselves. Greed is a nasty word....
Regards,
Lock N Load.

 

[Lock N Load]

Cat, are you OK?

I think most agree that to become a very good poolplayer requires dedication to the game, which equals out to be years, more for some less for others, the player that works the hardest at the game to become better gets the mostest! this is what makes the game so great, and gives the player a feeling of great acomplishment, which is most deserved, and the recognition from their peers.

All poolplayers have a Badge of Honor, some wear it to show , some don't.


David Harcrow

Hello Cat,
Is everything going OK for you today? I am gonna get me one of them badges of honor!
Regards,
Lock N Load.

 

[Lock N Load]

You are right again, my friend.

Glad you liked the post. Seems we all have some folks like Shorty around when we are trying to learn. Most only want the easiest of pickings and there isn't a spot you can give them to get them to pick up a stick once you can play a little.

Hu

Guys, like Shorty always want things their way. And want to take advantage of a person when they can. Everyone that plays on a lower level than them is a mark. You see this everywhere you go. I love to lure then in after I have watched them beat up on a lower level player. Let them win a game or two to get started. And then you just barely beat them like a drum, still letting them win a game every now and then. So they won't quit. When I make a three or four rail bank shot and it just makes it to the pocket, I jump for joy and say how lucky I was. Some of the balls I shoot real soft and they look like they are not going to make it to the pocket, but it does. I am edging the ball on like a rookie. Enough said, you get my point. Hu, it is a pleasure to communicate with you and be your friend. Thanks.
Regards,
Lock N Load.

 

[catpool9]

Pools Badge of Honor!

Hello Cat,
Is everything going OK for you today? I am gonna get me one of them badges of honor!
Regards,
Lock N Load.

HaHa.....You already have one brother! , you have it on everyday, some people can see it , some can't, that depends on You!

It is invisible but yet can be seen!:thumbup:


David Harcrow

 

[chefjeff]

Jeff you read that book. If so how is it???

This is Dana in Indy its been a while since I saw you at WBM's torture chamber what a dungeon. Hope you are htting them well.

Hi, Dana,I didn't realize who you were...or I guess I forgot, at my age. How long has it been? '05 was it?

What a dump, that dungeon.

The book is one of my favorites. I read it in Hawaii a couple of years ago. Great stuff. Gladwell is one of my favorite writers now. I just finished What the Dog Saw....also a very good look-see into how persons choose things. He has a unique way of looking at the world that is very helpful to most, I'd think.

Let's do Doc's place again, soon. I need another lesson from a great one.

Jeff Livingston

 

[tom mcgonagle]

I firmly believe, "THE YOUNGER YOU START, THE BETTER."

I started at the age of thirteen. It took me 5 years of playing, a ton of pool, to reach my full potential, shooting wise. At that age your body is ahead of your mind.

The older I got the smarter I became. I started to concern myself with where the cue-ball was going to end up.

I'd be willing to bet I played 20,000 hours of pool before I was considered a good player.

Starting young you have less inhibitions. It's like learning to play an instrument or a second language. The younger the better.

_______________________________________

http://tommcgonaglerightoncue.com

 

[Lock N Load]

Hello Tom, thank you for your input...

I firmly believe, "THE YOUNGER YOU START, THE BETTER."

I started at the age of thirteen. It took me 5 years of playing, a ton of pool, to reach my full potential, shooting wise. At that age your body is ahead of your mind.

The older I got the smarter I became. I started to concern myself with where the cue-ball was going to end up.

I'd be willing to bet I played 20,000 hours of pool before I was considered a good player.

Starting young you have less inhibitions. It's like learning to play an instrument or a second language. The younger the better.

_______________________________________

http://tommcgonaglerightoncue.com

Telling it like it happened to you is very good. I like your story very much. When you tell it like it was in your life it can get no better! I appreciate your input and response.
Regards,
Lock N Load.

 

[greyghost]

You know, this has been beat left and right.. but in the end, i think it all comes down to one thing..... TALENT

Oh BS...........talent is a myth........like destiny.......you make your own habits and paths in life. There is no physical minimum required really in billiards and you don't have to be a rocket scientist to understand the game masterfully as its BASIC.......yea we can break it down and Pool Scientists trying to land a player on the holy rock but you do not have to know any kind of geometry or math just basic human intelligence and if one pays attention all the stuff comes with time.

Look at what they do overseas they grab kids and put them in some hard core training at a young age and POW......SPIT SHINED ROBOT CHAMPION in just about any sport.

They were just instilled the correct habits that bring you to the top at a younger age in those cases.......not Talent.......HABIT.

I'd say the only "TALENT" that a great player needs is mental fortitude........but then again that can be learned with experience also......we see this type of training used in the military to make our bad ass commando warriors.

Its not in the same realm as say a 400lb man being limited physically so he will never run a world class mile time........he was born with a thyroid problem so he was INHIBITED...........i think we are basically all normal human beings, if your not inhibited naturally by say weight/size/height or if say you were born retarted then you just can't do some things of course.

Talent is the myth that people lean on to be the excuse why they never made it as far as they wanted to in a certain subject.........its a BS SCAPEGOAT.

for every ding dong that was so talented he/she was "Gods" gift unto the masses, there are 50x more "Talented" ding dongs that are nothing more than washed up.

If thats true then being born with money in your family must be a talent too right? lmfao.

How many people are goofs that were no where close to being smart or talented RICH as hell? Because they worked at it and built up their strengths over time.

The only talent worth having if there even was such a thing is the ability to learn and not be physically hampered then these limits you impose disappear IF YOU WANT THEM TO.......BUT YOU CANT BULLSHIT YOURSELF YOU GOT TO WANT IT AND DO THE WORK TO GET IT.

People who get up every day and do their job and do it well (no matter from hustler to banker).........thats talent.

Dedication my friends is what matters most.

-Grey Ghost-

 

[softshot]

Talent is the myth that people lean on to be the excuse why they never made it as far as they wanted to in a certain subject.........its a BS SCAPEGOAT.

Amen Pool Ability is not a talent it's a SKILL and can be mastered by anyone with the desire and dedication to do so..

I know a run out 9ball player in a wheelchair ask him about talent..

 

[Cornerman]

Hello AZB Members,
I would like to get your input/response on how long it should take to become a very good pool player! How many hours of practice, amount of focus, what helps a person learn to play good, does a person learn the game better with a good teacher, can a person learn to be a good player if self taught, what you think teaches a person the best way to learn the game? Thanks in advance.... I teach a couple of people how to improve their game, and would like some good input!
Regards,
Lock N Load.

4084 hours.

HTH,


Fred

 

[Lock N Load]

I thank you very much, Cornerman.

4084 hours.

HTH,


Fred

I appreciate your input and response.
Regards,
Lock N Load.