Forearm on the table

[Not Dead Ted]

Many of the best players put their bridge forearm flat on the table surface or rail for added stability whenever possible.

But, I have not seen this recommended in books or instructional videos that are geared to players still learning the fundamentals. Do instructors view this as an advanced technique, or is it something that beginning and intermediate players should incorporate into their game early on?

My own experience has been mixed. Yes, it makes your entire body more stable. However, it also requires more forward bending that affects your overall alignment.

As I type this, there is a banner ad at the top of the page with Niels Feijen, who seems to always have his forearm on the table.

 

[garczar]

To each his own. If it works for you great. Why worry what others do.

 

[Bob Jewett]

To each his own. If it works for you great. Why worry what others do.

"Just do what feels good," is horrible advice. Sometimes there are reasons for orthodox mechanics. Lots of players have wandered down dead ends by doing what seemed to work. Like aiming in the middle of the ball and then jacking up the elbow in the middle of the forward stroke to get draw. Try the orthodox way first if it makes sense and is not just some irrelevant tradition. As a counter example, it used to be taught that your head should be at least a foot above the cue stick. I think no top player does that now, but check out Jimmy Moore.

That having been said, ...

The majority of snooker pros plant their elbows when they can. And if they have to bridge on the rail, their elbow is usually bent to the same angle as if they were out on the table. A planted elbow gives better stability than a locked and straight one. A "flying" elbow, bent and out in space, not so much.

At pool, there is stuff in the way more often, so you can't put your elbow on the table. Also, a pool table is lower, so it is harder to get your upper body down that low.