Here's my dilemma:
I've been told by players much more accomplished than I that I should work on getting my back arm perpendicular at contact. Nearly every book, article, AZB post, etc. that discusses fundamentals seems to agree.
When I play, my arm is usually forward of perpendicular at contact. I wouldn't say dramatically, but very clearly visible to anyone who's looking. I've done this for years, because it's more comfortable, it feels more natural to me, and I seem to get significantly more consistent results.
I've tried several times to "fix" my stroke, by moving my grip hand back, or addressing the ball differently- for months at a time, even - with no appreciable result other than feeling awkward at the table, and playing significantly worse than I know I'm capable. I feel like I have enough "stroke" playing my usual way, to do anything I need to do at the table, but I can't help but wonder if there's a compelling reason to try fixing my mechanics again.
Ultimately, I don't want my game to be limited by something like this, so I thought I'd put the question to the board. What are the benefits, scientific or otherwise, of addressing the cue ball with your back arm perpendicular to the ground?
Thanks!
I've been told by players much more accomplished than I that I should work on getting my back arm perpendicular at contact. Nearly every book, article, AZB post, etc. that discusses fundamentals seems to agree.
When I play, my arm is usually forward of perpendicular at contact. I wouldn't say dramatically, but very clearly visible to anyone who's looking. I've done this for years, because it's more comfortable, it feels more natural to me, and I seem to get significantly more consistent results.
I've tried several times to "fix" my stroke, by moving my grip hand back, or addressing the ball differently- for months at a time, even - with no appreciable result other than feeling awkward at the table, and playing significantly worse than I know I'm capable. I feel like I have enough "stroke" playing my usual way, to do anything I need to do at the table, but I can't help but wonder if there's a compelling reason to try fixing my mechanics again.
Ultimately, I don't want my game to be limited by something like this, so I thought I'd put the question to the board. What are the benefits, scientific or otherwise, of addressing the cue ball with your back arm perpendicular to the ground?
Thanks!