Just a few questions for a beginner

[travis13]

First off this is a great site, and I plan to be here alot.

Im 25 and have been playing pool since I was in my early teens. I was always good at just making balls, but I just got into the APA and man I'm hooked now. Ive played three matches so far and am a 5, and cant wait to play each week. Basically, I want to ask a few questions about technique, because I'm also an avid golfer and know the importance of developing good habits early. Here goes:

1.) My main question is my stroke. I use a 2 and 3 finger grip (not counting thumb). I have been told that a level cue is always best, but I tent to ocillate the cue up and down and use my wrists mainly (I watched a few vids on youtube and Bustamante is the closest person I can find to using the techniqe I speak of). I don't really draw the cue back far most of the time since it feels like my wrists are the main part moving. A guy that is a 7 in my league says that doing this is totally wrong and I need to stop, but it feels good to me and works.

2.) When using a closed bridge, I basically use my three left fingertips to plant. Basically that is all that is touching the table. It is more accurate for me that way then having my wrist touching the table

I hope I worded this well enough that it is understandable. Also, I have a pool table at home so if I'm doing it wrong I can practice. Thanks

 

[pooltchr]

Even though something "feels good" doesn't mean it is the best way of doing something. It may just feel good because you have done it for so long.

The goal of a good pool stroke is to move the cue forward. Moving it up and down is counterproductive.

As for your bridge, the more of your hand that you have touching the table, the more stable your bridge, and the more accurate your delivery.

I would recommend getting with a qualified instructor who can help you develop the skills and habits that will help you progress to your highest level.

It will be an investment in your game that will last a lifetime.

Steve

 

[travis13]

Thanks. I think I made the ocillating motion out to be worse than it is, I think I would have to show you to properly portray it. Any instructors in Middle Tennessee?

I guess what I'm doing is "pumping the cue", that's what an instructor on youtube called it

 

[randyg]

Thanks. I think I made the ocillating motion out to be worse than it is, I think I would have to show you to properly portray it. Any instructors in Middle Tennessee?

I guess what I'm doing is "pumping the cue", that's what an instructor on youtube called it

Karen Corr is a BCA Instructor. She plays pretty good also.....SPF=randyg

 

[pooltchr]

Thanks. I think I made the ocillating motion out to be worse than it is, I think I would have to show you to properly portray it. Any instructors in Middle Tennessee?

I guess what I'm doing is "pumping the cue", that's what an instructor on youtube called it

Give me a call if you like. I would be willing to plan a long weekend in TN for some one on one if you're interested. PM me and I will give you my number....or you can get it on my web site, found in my sig line.

Steve

 

[Mr. Wiggles]

Bridge hand

IMO its great your using a closed bridge, but I think serious weight should be put on your palm for a stable bridge. Your bridge should be very stable this way. Also remember when you start changing up any part of your game there will probably be a slight downhill slide in your performance. At your age I strongly would consider lessons. A certified instructor is great but there are probably some great players who would give your their time for maybe less money. Its a journey.

 

[poolplayer2093]

First off this is a great site, and I plan to be here alot.

Im 25 and have been playing pool since I was in my early teens. I was always good at just making balls, but I just got into the APA and man I'm hooked now. Ive played three matches so far and am a 5, and cant wait to play each week. Basically, I want to ask a few questions about technique, because I'm also an avid golfer and know the importance of developing good habits early. Here goes:

1.) My main question is my stroke. I use a 2 and 3 finger grip (not counting thumb). I have been told that a level cue is always best, but I tent to ocillate the cue up and down and use my wrists mainly (I watched a few vids on youtube and Bustamante is the closest person I can find to using the techniqe I speak of). I don't really draw the cue back far most of the time since it feels like my wrists are the main part moving. A guy that is a 7 in my league says that doing this is totally wrong and I need to stop, but it feels good to me and works.

2.) When using a closed bridge, I basically use my three left fingertips to plant. Basically that is all that is touching the table. It is more accurate for me that way then having my wrist touching the table

I hope I worded this well enough that it is understandable. Also, I have a pool table at home so if I'm doing it wrong I can practice. Thanks

i'd recommend watching neils feijen or jasmin ouschan. check out as many accu stats as you can. since you'll be playing a lot of 8 ball you should buy yourself some 14.1 videos. might open your eyes to more effective patterns!

Gl and keep us posted on your progress.