Inner Pool

[Vinnie]

After picking up "Inner Tennis" - W. Timothy Gallwey (author of "The Inner Game of Tennis") from my local library and reading it, I realized that I needed to learn how to increase my awareness during pool play in order to quiet my mind. In his book, Gallwey shares several techniques which apply to tennis, one of which he calls "riding the ball". I wondered if the same could be applied to pool and so I tried it on my table at home. On every shot, I simply became aware of the object ball and "took a ride" with it until it dropped. It is amazing how much you can pick up from this awareness, every little bit of spin, sliding, and throw can be seen. After a while I realized that I could apply the same awareness to the cue ball, so I shot a few shots focusing ONLY on the cue ball. I became aware of exactly where my tip was striking the cue ball and started picking up every bit of spin and sliding. Not only do these techniques help to quiet my mind, but they also help my body use natural learning.
I recommend this book to anyone who wishes to take their game to the next level.

Vinnie
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Stroke.

 

[TorranceChris]

Good point. Sometimes when I am a little in the rut, I start thinking from the object ball's perspective. Imagine the view from the object ball to the pocket and it wanting to go in with the pocket being an unavoidable obstacle. Then my game starts to pick up. Hope that makes sense. Either that or I'm ready for my straitjacket

 

[Run the Century]

Great book

I couldnt agree more. The only thing I would like to know from you guys is - in his book he says one way to quite the mind is to focus on the seems of the tennis ball. What do you guys use as a focus in pool?

 

[JonoNZ]

If you are ANGRY!!!

Here's a god one that someone taught me too...

If you are pissed off and just want to break everything in sight focus your anger on the object ball. It works wonders!

Oh, just make sure you don't focus your anger on the cue ball 'cause you will probably break something still