If you’ve recently taken an interest in pool, you might be looking for ways to improve your game. However, before you move on to fancy trick shots, there are a few fundamental techniques and mechanics you will need to master. Sharpen your skills at the pool hall with these helpful tips.

How to Enhance Your Pool Strategy

1. Lighten Your Grip

Many beginners make the mistake of gripping the cue too tightly, thinking it will help them maintain better control over the shot. In reality, a too-tight grip can cause the butt of the cue to jerk up at the end of your shot, throwing off your accuracy. Loosen up, hold the cue up over the pool table, then rest it gently on your fingers. It may take some practice for you to feel comfortable combining a light grip with effortless control.

2. Perfect Your Stance

Remember to keep your front and rear foot about a shoulder-width apart, equally distributing your weight between each foot. The front foot should be pointed straight forward while the back foot rests at a 45-degree angle. If you seem wobbly, adjust yourself to a more stable position. You should feel balanced and comfortable.

3. Get Comfortable With Your Bridge

Your non-shooting hand, or bridge, is essential for connecting the cue with the cue ball. There are many different types of bridges, but for pool hall newcomers, the open bridge is optimal. The player places their non-shooting hand on the table to form a “V” with their thumb and index finger. This creates a solid, easily adjustable base for the end of the cue so that your thumb and forefinger will guide your shots.

4. Master the Follow-Through

New players often miss their marks, sending the target ball spinning off. This poor follow-through is a sign of an incomplete or improper stroke. Avoid pulling the cue back too early or moving your upper arm too much when shooting, as this can take power away from your arm’s swing and ruin your aim.

Keep your upper arm still as your shooting arm swings back and forth like a pendulum to drive the shot. Let the cue slide through the cue ball as if it weren’t there, and lock your shooting hand in position as soon as contact is made. This makes for a smoother, more controlled shot.

If you're looking for a laid-back establishment to hone your pool playing skills, then come to The Office Lounge in Foley, AL, for a night of ice-cold drinks and entertainment. As one of the area’s popular pool halls, they offer a fun and competitive atmosphere where you can relax with friends or show off your skills. They host regular APA pool leagues, poker tournaments, and karaoke. Call (251) 943-2210 to ask about their schedule of events, and visit their website for a full drink menu and list of game tournaments.