Billiards is one of the great classic bar games, bringing people together for fun, exciting evenings at pool halls across the country. However, there’s a lot to learn if you’re just picking up the game, from proper body alignment to basic strategies. These tips will help you establish one of the most fundamental and important skills: how to hold the cue.

How to Hold a Pool Cue

Use a Light Grip

Many beginners think that having a tight grip on the cue gives them more power and control, when actually it’s the opposite. Holding the cue loosely will let it slide forward smoothly, delivering the maximum force with the precision the game requires.

Find a Natural Balance

Some experienced players like to hold the shaft of the cue only with their fingers, not letting it touch their palms at all, while others suggest closing your hand all the way around it. Either way, the grip should be easy, light, and natural. But what does that really mean? To find your natural grip, try setting the cue down on the table, then picking it up with one hand using the minimum effort possible. The hand you use to guide the cue will only take a little of its weight, so pay attention to what feels like the most control for your other hand with the least amount of overthinking.

Practice Proper Alignment

Correct body alignment is key to making the stick move smoothly and evenly, without the vertical movement that can ruin even the easiest shot. When you lean over the table in the pool hall, your forearm should be perpendicular to the stick. To practice the alignment, simply bend forward with your arm holding the stick behind you, and just let your elbow bend naturally. Wherever your hand falls is where you should be holding the cue. 

As one of Foley, AL’s favorite late-night gathering spots and pool halls, The Office Lounge is the ideal place to perfect your game. Along with great live music and a fully stocked bar, they also have 10 pool tables, making it one of the area’s most popular pool halls. Visit their website for more on their drinks and games, follow their Twitter for tips and tricks, or call (251) 943-2210 with any questions.