Stroketrainer Review

[mr8ball]

From: Steve Ellis
Subject: Review: Stroke trainer

Date: 2004-01-30 18:02:18 PST


I got a Stroke Trainer by Doug Carter for Christmas. I wanted to use it for a while before
I made any comments and it has been slightly over a month now. Plain and simple it works
for me. I'm playing better now than I have before. I've played a game or 2 at the level
I'm playing now before, but what I have now is more consistency attaining that level,
fewer inexplicably missed shots, significantly increased ability over the long green. I'm
still a hacker, but I think I'm a better hacker. Other people have also noticed a change.
I believe this change can be attributed to the Stroke Trainer. It could be coincidence, it
could be a placebo effect, it could be a lot of things, but I think it is the stroke
trainer. Could I accomplish the same improvement other ways? Maybe, but I didn't before.
JMHO.
Steve. <- Not paid to say this, like Earl is for the glasses.

 

[Joseph Cues]

I think one can make a stroketrainer out of a wire shirt hanger.

 

[Purdman]

Stroke Trainer

I think a good video camera and a TV will do wonders for anybody's game. You can use it for something other than a paper weight when ya want to.
You can use the line on the table edge where the rails connect too.JMHO
Don P.

 

[fast larry]

I think a good video camera and a TV will do wonders for anybody's game. You can use it for something other than a paper weight when ya want to.
You can use the line on the table edge where the rails connect too.JMHO
Don P.

My suggestion is not to judge the mans product, until you have tested and used the mans product. I ordered one today, I'll give it a go and try it out.
I did because two top notch teachers I really respect are using it, Randy G and Doctor Q. If they find something in it, I may as well.

Yes, I teach with a digital camera and believe any teacher not using a camera is not a real teacher. Yes I also teach checking out your stroke using the rail line on the table.

I am never going to prejudge another product every again from my ivory tower. My assistant in the pool school brought in this break rack trainer, 4 balls with cords so you can practice your break. I took one look at that thing and said get that out of here, he did, he took it out on the road and came back saying everyone loved it. So I took it out as well and found out not only did the thing work, I loved it and so did my students. It is now on the road in the school and it will be on my break DVD. I was passing this up because I knew so much, won't make that mistake any more. Now everything that comes in I run it and test it like a consumer magazine does.

If this aim trainer works and my students tell me they get real benefit from it, I'll come back to you in the future and report that. Right now, I don't know, but I am about to find out soon.

 

[Purdman]

Judge What Product

'O si yo. I didn't intend to judge the product. I have seen it and tried it. I simply stated that there are other ways to work on your stroke. Did Buddy Hall use a stroke trainer back in the 70's? Show me a better stroke! You may notice that I put IMHO at the end. I will not argue with you, there is no need to. I am not trying to mess with your wa either. I also know Randy G. and several other Master BCA instructors. I have seen $300 teaching aids that teach you the same thing that you can accomplish the with a paper towel roll that you throw away every day. I also know that nothing, I mean nothing, will ever take the place of countless hours of perfect practice. That's how you got there, how I got there, and how Randy G. got there. Peace my friend.
Don Purdy

 

[hemicudas]

'O si yo. I didn't intend to judge the product. I have seen it and tried it. I simply stated that there are other ways to work on your stroke. Did Buddy Hall use a stroke trainer back in the 70's? Show me a better stroke! You may notice that I put IMHO at the end. I will not argue with you, there is no need to. I am not trying to mess with your wa either. I also know Randy G. and several other Master BCA instructors. I have seen $300 teaching aids that teach you the same thing that you can accomplish the with a paper towel roll that you throw away every day. I also know that nothing, I mean nothing, will ever take the place of countless hours of perfect practice. That's how you got there, how I got there, and how Randy G. got there. Peace my friend.
Don Purdy

You're right Don. Too many people think they can buy a stroke, instead of countless hours of practice. Some magic bean, pill or gimic that will make them play Efren's speed over night. Ain't gonna happen.

 

[Joseph Cues]

You're right Don. Too many people think they can buy a stroke, instead of countless hours of practice. Some magic bean, pill or gimic that will make them play Efren's speed over night. Ain't gonna happen.

I guess I should forget about buying those laser guided cue huh?
I agree with Don. Videotape yourself and see your sins.

 

[fast larry]

'O si yo. I didn't intend to judge the product. I have seen it and tried it. I simply stated that there are other ways to work on your stroke. Did Buddy Hall use a stroke trainer back in the 70's? Show me a better stroke! You may notice that I put IMHO at the end. I will not argue with you, there is no need to. I am not trying to mess with your wa either. I also know Randy G. and several other Master BCA instructors. I have seen $300 teaching aids that teach you the same thing that you can accomplish the with a paper towel roll that you throw away every day. I also know that nothing, I mean nothing, will ever take the place of countless hours of perfect practice. That's how you got there, how I got there, and how Randy G. got there. Peace my friend.
Don Purdy

Dont mess with my wa, when you do, it ain't purty, purdy. Right now my wa is doing purdy good, this being in love with every one and being nice really sucks, I had more fun being the old me. I am about to toss my Dali Lama book in the trash can. Every time the Silencer posts I have to go sit cross legged in the corner going ooooooommmmmmmmmmmmmmmoooommmmmm for 20 minutes. I am trying but I don't think I am going to get there Don. I want to kill that turkey, somebody give me my pills quick.

We'll there is no replacement for table time, you must pot a million balls, when you do, then the game gets easy. I am a sucker for tools and trainer stuff, I can't help it.

 

[fast larry]

I guess I should forget about buying those laser guided cue huh?
I agree with Don. Videotape yourself and see your sins.

I had that idea years before that came out, I duct taped one on a cue. When I developed my current POL sight and aiming system, that made the laser cue obsolete and I gave it to some teenie booper to harrass old people with in movie theaters. See, I told you I am a freak for this stuff, being an engineer by trade, that I guess is my problem. I am constantly searching for this edge, that thing that helps the guy do this.

I am shocked by how many players have never had a decent pro like Don video tape them and then let them see their sins, then go to work on building basics, that is what it is all about, simple solid basics.

 

[Purdman]

Wa

Larry, what exactly is your " WA " ? Your ego? I honestly don't know. You tell me about your Dali Lama book and then say you are a warrior. I don't get it man. I am sure others are wondering also. Ya wan't to throw out the golden rule and go kill someone? If we all lived like that, nobody would be left. Larry, I am 6' 1" and weigh 250 lbs. I ues to think I was a bad ass warrior until I met one. I have the scars to prove it. In 1964, I was in a reform school with the 400 touhgest boys in the state. 8 to 18. When they integrated, they brought in the darkest skined American Indian I have ever seen. The five toughest SOB in the state of Virginia jumped his ass one day. Lasted about five minutes. Nothing but teeth, hair, blood, fists, feet, elbows, flying everywhere. When it was over, the only one standing was that indian. Thats a warrrior Larry. The only thing he didn't do was eat their flesh when he was done. They all went to the hospital while he got put in the hole for a week. He got out first. So please stop comming off like you is some kinda bad ass, caus you aint. I ain't. That fu$king indian is. Later my friend.
Don P.

 

[tobyjoe]

Don, while I, also, have no idea where Larry's post went, I think I know how he got to "WA":

A quote from you:
"I am not trying to mess with your wa either."

I think he was just screwing with your typo.

And if either of you don't like it, I'm 5'8" and 155 pounds and I look like a 13 year old, and while I'm sure I'd get my ass served to me, I'm a damned good programmer and I can guarantee I'd buy my new house with your credit card numbers!

As for the stroke trainer, video cams, and practice, etc, I'm all for whatever works, but as others have mentioned, nothing beats practice.

With some things, I can at least understand where people can get lazy and not want to work for a result (like people being too lazy to go to the gym and just paying for lipo or whatever), but with pool, practice is fun. Practice is playing. It's what it's all about. Anyone not willing to put in the hours is a loser now and always will be... But for those who do practice, I don't see anything wrong with using whatever tools there are to help. Nothing beats having a few wiser and better players who can teach you things, but if a stroketrainer helps someone, and they have the extra dough, then hell, they get my blessing.

 

[RunArak]

Tobyjoe... You said all that needs to be said.. I agree completely! BTW, the ST is a nice tool for one learning to stroke. Not a cure all, but a tool to help you along the way!

 

[Purdman]

Hey Toby

I agree Toby. What did I say wrong? I gave my opinion. That is what the post asked for, duh. As for the "wa", that is not a typo. He is constantly stating that if you mess with his "wa" his warrior self will come out. I don't know what he is talking about. That is why I asked. I do know that if it makes him want to fight, it is his EGO. There is also something about Budda and Warrior that don't jive. I am just trying to figure out where he is comming from. After all my friend, we all are brothers and sisters wheather we know it or not. Hope to see ya Saturday.
Don P.

 

[fast larry]

Larry, what exactly is your " WA " ? Your ego? I honestly don't know. You tell me about your Dali Lama book and then say you are a warrior. I don't get it man. I am sure others are wondering also. Ya wan't to throw out the golden rule and go kill someone? If we all lived like that, nobody would be left. Larry, I am 6' 1" and weigh 250 lbs. I ues to think I was a bad ass warrior until I met one. I have the scars to prove it. In 1964, I was in a reform school with the 400 touhgest boys in the state. 8 to 18. When they integrated, they brought in the darkest skined American Indian I have ever seen. The five toughest SOB in the state of Virginia jumped his ass one day. Lasted about five minutes. Nothing but teeth, hair, blood, fists, feet, elbows, flying everywhere. When it was over, the only one standing was that indian. Thats a warrrior Larry. The only thing he didn't do was eat their flesh when he was done. They all went to the hospital while he got put in the hole for a week. He got out first. So please stop comming off like you is some kinda bad ass, caus you aint. I ain't. That fu$king indian is. Later my friend.
Don P.

Ah so, you not know what wa is, you dont have one. It is Samuari thing.
I was just joking around, trying to have some fun, trying to be funny, nothing serious, and see what happened, your wa went off the deep end. You need to sit in the corner for a few minutes and go oooooooooooooooommmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmaaaahhhhh and then you will feel better. Chunk down a couple of valiums man. We are pals, do not forget this. When I am saying Bernie makes these posts that aggravate me so bad I want to kill him, that does not mean I actually entertain the idea or concept, it's a saying, many people use and that saying, it is a way of releasing anger. I'll try not to joke around with you guys any more, it gets mis interpeted and mis read and there is no reward in that for me. I'll become boring and formal, like you want me to.These forums do get to the point were they bore me S*** LESS.

 

[fast larry]

'O si yo. I didn't intend to judge the product. I have seen it and tried it. I simply stated that there are other ways to work on your stroke. Did Buddy Hall use a stroke trainer back in the 70's? Show me a better stroke! You may notice that I put IMHO at the end. I will not argue with you, there is no need to. I am not trying to mess with your wa either. I also know Randy G. and several other Master BCA instructors. I have seen $300 teaching aids that teach you the same thing that you can accomplish the with a paper towel roll that you throw away every day. I also know that nothing, I mean nothing, will ever take the place of countless hours of perfect practice. That's how you got there, how I got there, and how Randy G. got there. Peace my friend.
Don Purdy

How do you not know that he actually did. Why does he sell one of his own design today then? Perhaps the answer you seek is right in front of you and you cannot see it?

 

[TheHillbillyKid]

Thanks for the review of the stroketrainer. I have been thinking about gettin one, but was waiting to hear that it worth the money. I also like anything that can make me get better faster.

Question. The main thing wrong with my storke is that I cup
my wrist in and have to make myself not do that. Would this product help me overcome that. Its like I have to keep re-learning the right way. This problem make it so I have to checking myself when I playing and is holding me back.

Also I don't know you but have read your posts and would like to say thank you to and the other pros here that give us insight and advice on Pool and Billiards. Your help shaves years off what it would take for us to become champions.

 

[fast larry]

Larry, what exactly is your " WA " ? Your ego? I honestly don't know. You tell me about your Dali Lama book and then say you are a warrior. I don't get it man. I am sure others are wondering also. Ya wan't to throw out the golden rule and go kill someone? If we all lived like that, nobody would be left. Larry, I am 6' 1" and weigh 250 lbs. I ues to think I was a bad ass warrior until I met one. I have the scars to prove it. In 1964, I was in a reform school with the 400 touhgest boys in the state. 8 to 18. When they integrated, they brought in the darkest skined American Indian I have ever seen. The five toughest SOB in the state of Virginia jumped his ass one day. Lasted about five minutes. Nothing but teeth, hair, blood, fists, feet, elbows, flying everywhere. When it was over, the only one standing was that indian. Thats a warrrior Larry. The only thing he didn't do was eat their flesh when he was done. They all went to the hospital while he got put in the hole for a week. He got out first. So please stop comming off like you is some kinda bad ass, caus you aint. I ain't. That fu$king indian is. Later my friend.
Don P.

Don let me assure you IT WAS NOT MY INTENTION, to come across as a bad ass, if that came through that way let me say I am sorry, I was kidding around. Making a joke. I have been in three pool hall fights and lost all three, I am 0 and 3, what does that tell you about my fighting ability. After losing all three I did go out and acquire a 2nd degree black belt in Karate and have not lost one since out of a pool hall but have not had one in a pool hall either. Fighting on a mat in a dojo is one thing, in some bar or pool hall there are people who will bite off your nose and spit it in your face. You don't get into a fight, you get attacked.
Look, my fighting days are over, I am now a lover, no longer a fighter, any of you ladies out there want to test that to find out be my guest.

Here is a teaching of the Dali Lama so you will get to know him as I do.

EMERGENCY EXIT

One night, a Delta twin-engine puddle jumper was flying somewhere above New Jersey. There were five people on board: the pilot, Michael Jordan, George W. Bush, the Dali Lama, and a hippie. Suddenly, an illegal oxygen generator exploded loudly in the luggage compartment, and the passenger cabin began to fill with smoke. The cockpit door opened, and the pilot burst into the compartment.
"Gentlemen," he began, "I have good news and bad news. The bad news is that we're about to crash in New Jersey. The good news is that there are four parachutes, and I have one of them!" With that, the pilot threw open the door and jumped from the plane.
Michael Jordan was on his feet in a flash. "Gentlemen," he said, "I am the world's greatest athlete. The world needs great athletes. I think the world's greatest athlete should have a parachute!" With these words, he grabbed one of the remaining parachutes, and hurtled through the door and into the night.
George W. Bush rose and said, "Gentlemen, I am supposed to be the President of the U.S. The world needs leaders, and I think leaders should have a parachute, too." He grabbed one, and out he jumped.
The Dali Lama and the hippie looked at one another. Finally, the Dali Lama spoke. "My son," he said, "I have lived a satisfying life and have known the bliss of True Enlightenment. You have your life ahead of you; you take a parachute, and I will go down with the plane."
The hippie smiled slowly and said, "Hey, don't worry. The supposed leader of the free world just jumped out wearing my backpack."

 

[Purdman]

Larry my friend

I have read Buddy's bio. From the first time he peeked into a pool hall up to the late 90's. That is where I got my information.
I have seen the Stroke Trainer in action. Yes, it probably will help a beginner.
I also have a BreakRAK deluxe kit. It is a fine product. I also know Charlie.
Since you won't say what you mean by "messing with your wa", I have been trying to research it a little. Today, I have read about: The Four Noble Truths, Eightfold Path, Karma, Zazen Practice, and The Way Of The Samuari. Still no "wa". So come on and tell me.
Larry, it is not the first time someone has poked fun at my last name, Purdy Ugly, aint' purty,Purdy, doing Purdy good, hell, I even had a package delivered to Don Turdy. I can appriciate the humor. Farry, it happens Farry often. See no big deal.
I don't need to medicate myself, or meditate to return to my normal state. I do have inner peace. In my readings today, I found a ton of things that I already knew, thay were inside all the time. I don't need to climb a mountain to go inside.
I am taking no offence, I would still enjoy having you as a guest when your in the area. Just leave your Guninger car.
Let me know what your "wa" is and what you think about the Stroke Trainer.
Your friend, Don
I enjoyed the reading today!!!!

 

[catscradle]

I...Let me know what your "wa" is ...

Is it like in
"Wah, wah-a Watusi
C'mon and take a chance and get-a with this dance
Wah, wah-a Watusi
Oh, baby, it's the dance made-a for romance (shoo-bop, shoo-bop, ahh)"

Maybe you just misspelled it Larry.

 

[Purdman]

Wa

Thanks Gremlin. I am not angry at Fast's non reply. It's pretty hard to get me angry. "Harmony", I don't see much of that in his posts, that is why I usually don't respond, except in PM's to Larry. Just to try and keep some peace and harmony on this forum. I first met you at the US Open. I hope to see you again. Maybe this weekend at Orange Ball Cafe if you are going to be there. I am trying to get a few local AZ members together and play some time. I have six of us lined up now. Maybe you would like to play. Three of them are women. Just a fun, social thing.
Don P.