How to Avoid Using the Bridge

fast&loose designs

fast&loose designs

Chris Santana
Silver Member
So I created this simple guide on how one should be aware of their weaknesses at the table when it comes to their reach. I've given this diagram to many people, and they have all said that they are using the bridge less often, simply because they are more aware of the areas on the table and the particular shot angles that force them to use a bridge or other tool. The file was too big to post here, so this is a preview. If you would like the full version PDF, please email me at csantana47@gmail.com and I'll send you the full 11 x 80, absolutely free. This is part of a series of diagrams I'm putting together, FULL color and very interactive. Enjoy!
 

Attachments

  • reach3.jpg
    reach3.jpg
    141.1 KB · Views: 339
I have never had a problem shooting with the mechanical bridge, but your PDF file is a nice gesture as there are certainly MANY players that have a great disdain towards using it.

I got real good at using the bridge just before/after my first of two shoulder surgeries. I literally HAD to use the bridge on any shot where the cue ball was even with or beyond the side pocket as I couldn't stretch my arm out far enough to reach these shots. I had to shoot all shots from an upright, standing position, and not without extreme pain. Now, with limited mobility in both my shoulders, I use a longer cue AND an extension for the shots that are just short of needing the bridge for.

Again, thanks for the information. This is why I started coming onto this site, for threads like this one.

Maniac
 
Maniac said:
I have never had a problem shooting with the mechanical bridge, but your PDF file is a nice gesture as there are certainly MANY players that have a great disdain towards using it.

I got real good at using the bridge just before/after my first of two shoulder surgeries. I literally HAD to use the bridge on any shot where the cue ball was even with or beyond the side pocket as I couldn't stretch my arm out far enough to reach these shots. I had to shoot all shots from an upright, standing position, and not without extreme pain. Now, with limited mobility in both my shoulders, I use a longer cue AND an extension for the shots that are just short of needing the bridge for.

Again, thanks for the information. This is why I started coming onto this site, for threads like this one.

Maniac
Click to expand...

Thanks, Maniac! I'm glad you found it useful. I'm 6'6", and I don't use it often, but I do notice that players will actually place the cueball in areas they can't reach, simply because while they are determining where to place the cue ball, they are so focused on the angle for the NEXT shot that they forget they can't even reach! The players who have followed the simple diagram are now using it about 50% less. If you never have to use a bridge while playing, your game would definitely go up! Some people are very adept at using it, but if you think about how often you use it in real games, it's probably like once every 100 or 200 shots, less than 1% of the time. I'm glad I was able to help you!
 
I am 6'1" and I can reach almost every shot up to one diamond past the side pockets. Now shooting diagonly I can only reach to about middle of the table. I play 9 ball and 10 ball at an A level and I cant even remember the last time I had to use the bridge because I know my limits. I have been playing more straight pool lately because its more challenging but its funny that I find myself using the bridge every 5th rack or so. Usually on shots on the middle of the end rail that have like a 40 degree cut or more.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top