Pool tips please?

Question

so basically i have a pool table in my house, and im getting really good playing alone. but the thing is whenever i play someone i suck, really really bad, i mean i just lost to my sister, and she just started playing pool. and no matter how hard to try to either imagine im playing alone or concentrate hard i still suck. any ways to get over this.

Answer 1

As an avid pool player, I would agree with not trying so hard. Pocket billiards is both a physical and mental game. As a master league player for many years, there was a time when I got nervous about my opponents. I don't believe the answer lies with a BCA instructor. Although it has it's merits, one should only consider this upon reaching a plateau in ability that you can't seem to progress beyond. At that time an instructor may see a weakness in your game to allow you to excell past your plateau.

My first suggestion is based upon a lack of consistency. If you shoot good sometimes and not others, the focus area would be fundamentals. Proper stance, hold the cue properly, a smooth level stroke, and a good follow-through. These should be implemented in your alone time until they become second nature.

Second would be to keep your focus upon the table and not the opponent. Whether you practise by yourself or compete against another player is moot except when a defensive shot is required. Anytime you step up to the table, it is only you vs the balls. A good practise drill would be to set up a rack of three balls and try to shoot them down without missing. This drill will improve how you 'see' the table position. It will develop your cueball control skill. And it will lead you to recognize when a cluster breakout shot is required to continue your turn at the table or if a table runout is not possible and a defensive shot is called for. In a game of 8-ball it is very difficult to plan a runout of all 7 of your balls and the 8 ball due to unforseen interaction of same. It is possible to see in threes. The ball you are planning to make- your next ball- and another possible ball after that. By focusing your attention upon these three balls, you will not have any time to notice that you have an opponent.

Answer 2

Not to sound like a broken record, but the most efficient and effective way to improve at pool is to seek out formal instruction.  If at all possible, get yourself an instructor who is BCA (Billiard Congress of America) certified.  I'll provide the link.  Books and videos are good as well, but I really believe that there is no substitute for a real person.  M.D.-BCA Instructor/Referee.

Answer 3

First off, some people think they are better than they actually are, and that may be the case here. I don't think anyone can really calls themselves "good" unless they're beating almost everyone they play.

Secondly, a lot of people ignore strategy when they assess their own or another person's game. A great shot maker can often lose to weaker players if their strategy is poor. For example, if you played good strategy against your sister, she would rarely step to the table and have a decent shot. Otherwise, anytime she won it would just be dumb luck. Don't leave her open shots, and you will win almost every game.

I think you should also be aware that many, many people have problems with nerves when they first start playing competitively, whether that be tournament play or just playing other people in general. This will fade in time, and is not something you should concern yourself with. Focus on improving and do not dwell on the fact that you're not winning as much as you think you should. When you do begin to get good, your confidence will grow, and you will not feel nervous at all when going up against competition.

If you haven't done so already, I suggest you read and learn correct BCA rules. Many new players do not use proper rules, and 'house' rules often favor weaker players.

Answer 4

Just get used to playing someone you can hit a punching bag for hours but they dont hit back

Practice is just that- a game is diffrent

Just slow down quit trying so hard and go for it...

Answer 5

bro i know what you mean. i also play snooker and in practice i perform very well but in the competitions i tend to miss the easiest shots. the answer is to relax and be patient. keep the same rythem you use in parctice. it will seem hard but remember its all in the mind.

Answer 6

Just relax there buddy.

Don't hold the end of the cue to tight.  Relax like its your p****r.

Hold it to tight and you will affect your rythm.

Remember its all about geometry.

Angles & speed.

Try not hitting them out of the ball park.

Good luck.

Or get some tips from your sister.

:-P