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There is no doubt that pool is one of the most popular recreational sports on the planet. Playing pool was once only the privilege of the rich, but nowadays, everyone can enjoy this gentlemanly game. Shuffling some balls around a green hole-filled table may seem simple at first, but the game is quite challenging and requires a lot of practice. In case you’ve never played it (or you have and just feel like brushing up on it), this article will cover the basics, offer some tips and, basically, teach you how to play pool like a professional. Let’s begin.
Basics
To start things off, let’s cover some of the basics first. Pool is played using a cue stick on a cloth-covered rectangular table with six holes. Depending on the game, there is a certain number of colorful balls that need to be placed into holes using the white ball. You use the tip of your cue stick to set the white ball in motion and make her hit one of the others. In order to be successful at this game, you need to be able to determine the right angle at which you must hit the ball to reach the position you want. The very top of your cue stick is covered with a specific material to make the hits softer and more precise. From time to time, you need to use the chalk to keep the top in its best shape.
The Cue Stick
Now, the cue stick is one of the most important elements in pool, obviously. When choosing one, you need to make sure it’s straight, the right height and made for that specific purpose. Take the stick in your hand and look down its length to check how straight it is. Even the smallest curvature can affect its performance. Of course, you also need to make sure you use the one with appropriate length. Stretch out your arms almost as wide as you can and see if any stick fits the length. Finally, you also need to know what you’ll be using the stick for. If it’s the start of the game and you need to break the racked up balls, you’ll need a stronger, thicker stick, created specifically for that. The thinner the stick is, the more precise you can be with it. Since the break demands a bit more force than usual, you might end up damaging the thin, shorter ones.
Popular Pool Games
It is said that there are around 100 different pool games but, obviously, no one can know the exact number. One of the most popular games is certainly the Eight-Ball game where the player needs to sink all of his balls (striped or the solid ones) in the pockets, and end the game by sinking the black one. Another popular variation is the so-called 9-ball, where both players need to sink the balls in order from 1 to 9 and whoever sinks the last one wins. Once you’ve got these basics down, you can also try the cutthroat pool where each player selects his own balls and works to sink all others.
Tips and Tricks
- Since pool is basically applied physics, try to visualize the trajectory of the ball and where it will end up after hitting the ball you want. Like in chess, you need to think a couple of moves ahead.
- Your left hand (if you’re right-handed) should only be your fixed support. Keep it as firm as possible and let your cue stick just lean on it. You can choose the shape you think is the best, but remember not to grab the stick too hard and create unwanted friction.
- Depending on where you hit the cue ball, it will behave differently. If you aim for the upper part of the ball, it will continue going forward even after it hits your target. If you aim for the lower part of the ball, it might either come back after the hit or bounce if you apply greater force. Use it to control the position of the ball after the hit.
- Don’t just think about your future moves; try to predict your opponent’s moves as well. If possible, position your cue ball so that he can’t make a legal move afterwards.
- According to international rules, you need to announce which ball you will sink into which pocket for the move to be legit. Make sure you agree on the rules, first.
Do you know how to play pool? Which game is your favorite?
