Is it an advantage or disadvantage to play on different size tables?

Question

I'm an average pool player. I am probably above average compared to many recreational players, but below average compared to league players (I played on a league for 2 seasons). I like to play a lot and prefer 9 ft tables. But I've recently moved and I can't really find much other than 7ft bar tables. If I played on a semi-regular basis (2-3 times a week) on the 7 ft tables, would it really throw me off when I start to play on 9 ft again? The only place with 9's are about a 40 minute drive and can't really see driving that distace more then a couple of times a month. Does anybody have any suggestions? Would it be any benefit to play on 7's or am I just wasting my time? Thanks!

Answer 1

It is easier to play on the 7' (bar box) tables so it can put your game off if you go back to a 9' table.  You just have to learn to adjust your game according to the table size you are playing on.  The advantage to a 7' table is if you are in the APA league (CPA in Canada) if you get to Vegas the National Tournament matches are on 7' tables so if you have played on them it gives you an advantage over people who usually on play on 9' tables.

Answer 2

Any pool is better than no pool, but you will struggle going from a 7' to a 9' table.Try to shoot on a 9' table as much as possible

Answer 3

If your a serious player you should play on all 3 you never know where your next big game will be but a league is usualy all the same tables .I like a 9ft myself  but do most of my daily playing on bar boxes for games up to $50 over that its a 9 footer they are easier for me

Answer 4

I think playing on different tables is good for a player that way they can get better at adapting to the table

Answer 5

Some playing is better than no playing. It'll keep you in stroke and aligned at the very least. Position play and breaking up clusters tend to be more critical on a 7 footer too, so it could be advantageous in that sense. I think 2-3 times a week on 7 footers plus a couple times a month on 9 footers isn't going to negatively impact your overall performance. You'll probably pick up your feel again real quick when you go back to 9 footers, but you may need to warm up for a few games.

If you can, avoid 7 footers with oversized or heavier cue balls. That will help minimize stroke adjustments.