WE DON'T KNOW what you do on vacation. Parasailing in Myrtle Beach? Fly-fishing in Denver? That's your business. But now it's time to dig your cue out of the closet and get back in stroke.

We asked our staff instruction gurus for tips on shaking off the rust. Inevitably, we received a lot of variations on the stop shot - "the most powerful shot in pool,' according to BD house pro Tony Robles. Why? It's the easiest way to control the cue ball, and it's the best way to diagnose any left- or right-hand quiver in your stroke. There's a lot to build on from there - including pointers for rhythm, position play, and English. And don't forget the rest of your body - the bridge hand, your stance and overall fitness.

So put away the flip-flops and grab your tip-tapper. It's time to reclaim your game.

Take a lesson from our instructors:

• Tom Ross: Focus on Fundamentals
• Nick Varner: Use Your Head
• Larry Schwartz: Try the Rhythm Method
• Mark Wilson: Bridge to Success
• Tony Robles: Joy in Repetition
• George Fels: Getting Straight