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Getting It Right June 2013
ONE OF the most interest aspects of pool is that there’s no one right answer. If you look at an open table, there will be multiple ways of getting out — and what’s best for you might not be optimal for the next person up. To a certain extent, this axiom can also be applied to your stroke. While proper fundamentals are essential to improving, the pool world has its share of idiosyncrasies.
If you can consistently deliver the cue tip to the cue ball with a smooth, straight, accurate stroke, any small tic or hiccup takes a back seat to performance. Now, that’s an important qualifier. If you are not consistently stroking the cue ball, it’s quite possible your personal style is, in fact, a flaw. Now, when it comes to picking up on such things, there are a number of ways you can diagnose a problem. It can be extremely helpful to have a more knowledgeable player watch you at the table. Whether it’s during a match or when you’re shooting a few racks in practice, ask him to look for problems. If you’re rushing or setting up improperly, a spectator can see things you may otherwise miss. Another option, is to record video of yourself, something that’s becoming easier and easier with the proliferation of smart phones. Again, either in a match or during practice, take a few minutes of video so you can go back and examine your game. Do you have a pre-shot routine? Do you look fluid and comfortable? Does your back elbow move before/during your stroke?
Take the time to learn more about your game. Then, when it comes to accepting your own quirks and getting rid of your faults, you’ll be ahead of the game. And when it comes to a proper stroke, nobody’s perfect — not even an all-time great like Francisco Bustamante.
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