*Table of Contents:* - Intro [0:00] 1. Set and Check [0:53] 2. Relax and Test [1:40] 3. Pause and Verify [2:03] 4. Focus on Target [2:14] 5. Pull Back Slowly [2:26] 6. Transition Smoothly [2:47] 7. Keep Grip Relaxed [3:16] 8. Accelerate Smoothly [3:45] 9. Keep Elbow Still [4:14] 10. Finish the Stroke [4:55] 11. Stay Down and Still [5:30] - Wrap Up [6:31] ---- shot montage [7:24] *Supporting Resources: * - pre-shot routine: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/pre-shot-routine/best-practices/ - stance advice: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/advice/ - stroke “best practices” document: billiards.colostate.edu/resource_files/stroke_best_practices.pdf - stroke “best practices” resource page: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/technique/pre-shot routine - fundamentals tutorial: billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/fundamentals/

@jasong9502

3 жыл бұрын

Be still well after the hit? Come on that’s too much, that’s like saying after you break the tape and win the race keep running for a couple minutes to be sure you crossed the finish line!

@rogerjdf

3 жыл бұрын

Can you talk more about Vertical Axis Perception Error and how to correct it?

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

@@jasong9502 Have you ever seen a runner pull up early and have somebody pass them right at the finish line? If you stay down and still right after the shot, there is no chance of moving during the shot.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

@@rogerjdf I have lots of videos and info dealing with this here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/vision-center/ and here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/finding-center-ball/ Enjoy!

@RodgerMyers

3 жыл бұрын

Gal is pulling the cue in a little bit 🙂 .

The greatest pool teacher of all time--- DrDave!! Thank you very much dr Dave.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you!! And you're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

Dr Dave, Niels Feijen, Stephen Hendry and Garreth Potts. Good tips to up your game from all these dudes. Thanks ✌️

Dear Dr. Dave, I have been playing pool for 10 years now and been serious about improving my game for about 4 of those years. This video helps me out so much every now and then when my game gets a bit off, I go back to my stroke and do stroke drills. I love this video so much. Thank you so much for your excellent videos. Your friend- Chris

@DrDaveBilliards

Жыл бұрын

I'm glad you are finding my stuff helpful. FYI, a lot more help on important fundamentals can be found here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/fundamental/ and here: billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/ Enjoy!

Dr. Dave, you’ve been inspirational to many of us for sure! Your simple method of teaching with a calm voice and funny examples keeps us motivated and focused! I take that you’re a physics professor? Love your simple exercises that I’ve been using since I’ve met you here in this platform, i.e. the aiming systems you’ve developed or improved, and the brilliant simple following the vision for a straighter stroke as shown here today! I thank you for your kindness! Keep aiming to swerve! Hopefully, someday, I’ll have a chance to meet you in person and perhaps play a match!! Thank you!

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

You're very welcome. Thank you for the positive feedback. I was a mechanical engineering professor for 30 years. For more info, see: billiards.colostate.edu/dr-dave

@roadshowautosports

3 жыл бұрын

Thank Dr. Dave! Sent you and email and hope you have a great weekend!

Thank you for reminding me of what you told me at our lesson, my stroke improved then, and continues to improve to this day.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

I’m glad to hear it Bill. It is good to hear from you. I hope you are well.

I've watched about 30 of your videos but never commented, just wanted to say I really appreciate these videos, they've definitely helped me improve my game👍

@DrDaveBilliards

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment. You're welcome. I'm glad to hear you enjoy and benefit from my stuff.

Great video, as always Dr. Dave. Thank you

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you. And you're welcome.

Dr dave, thank you for your videos. Back around 2008 to 2012 i was deep into pool. I watched and learned from youtube. Videos like these allowed me to become a C player, lol. I took a break from pool but am starting to play again and these videos will come in handy.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

I'm glad to hear it. Good luck with your game!

Thanks for the often overlooked fundamentals ! Dr.Dave

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

You're welcome. FUNdaMENTALs are key.

Awesome as usual..Thank you very much Dr.Dave

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you ... and you're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

This is an excellent training video. I’ve been working on these fundamentals and techniques for the past month and I’ve seen my shot ratio go up significantly. It all makes perfect sense 👍

@DrDaveBilliards

4 ай бұрын

I’m glad you found it helpful.

You're like the Salmon Khan of billiards. I'm old enough such that I remember when the only way to learn pool was to go down to the pool hall and lose to the gamblers (shout out Chris's Billiards). I also remember when the only way to learn Calculus was to go to college. When I first started taking pool seriously I was also learning Calculus. I'd have one monitor on Khan Academy and another on one of your sites/vids. Your selfless act of education is what the internet is made for.

Excellent instruction. Thanks for putting this out there!

@DrDaveBilliards

Жыл бұрын

Thank you, and you’re welcome!

Great stuff, as always. I like that you start the video by pointing out that almost anything can be a 'good' stroke if it is just consistent. I have had this argument many times with people, now I will have this video to pull up next time. Excellent topic. I would argue that there are things you should almost definitely not do in a stroke, though, and I'm sure you will point that out as I continue to watch, things like jumping up, one of my worst and most difficult habits to kill. I even hit balls from one corner pocket to another, direct, for three THOUSAND shots once, actually over about three days, consciously working every aspect of ball address, from pre-shot to lining up to foot placement, ad infinitum. I also recorded and played back video from multiple angles (side, rear, front) to periodically check that everything was 'kosher'. It helped for a long time, but I should have done a hundred or so every time any aspect of my mechanics got sloppy. I didn't and over the years a lot of them have creeped back in. That is why I think it is SO important for beginners to learn it RIGHT. Bad habits are far more difficult to fix than NO habits. I also suspect a 'proper' standardized stroke is probably more easily learned and controlled than one with some quirk thrown in, some more than others. There's probably no simpler better way than to just get a GOOD instructor to get you started right, and give you a look/see every now and again to stay correct and consistent. I 'know' a lot better than I play, and I was watching a player FAR better than me, and he was missing. I said you are cocking your wrist. His shooting immediately got better. After about three shots he looked up and said, thanks, good call. One night, a couple had been watching me, and they were absolutely clueless when they got on the table, but had been watching me practice. The husband was trouncing her. He asked if I could give her some tips. Just about every aspect of her stroke initially was horrific to watch, so when she made what was supposed to be a bridge, I put my thumb and index finger and each side of her hand and wobbled it. I said you will NEVER hit a ball straight with mechanics like that, so I worked her stance, stroke, and then some various shots, showed her how spin action of the cue worked. I then showed her a few aspects of cue resultant angles and speeds (gave her your rules of thumb). I set up a rotation table with four balls on it, and ran through a bit of patterning, the hows and whys, and a bit of safety play, how, when, and why. Every time I told her and showed her how to do something, she just DID IT. Man, she could learn at incredible rates. I took about 1/2 hour with her (it was all fast, and pretty surface level) and I watched her play the next game against her husband before I left. She DEMOLISHED him. It was fun. He looked at me with a kind of 'my turn' on his face and I said I had to go, which I did. Probably should have told him $50 and hour, but I can almost guarantee he wouldn't have gotten what she did out of it. On the converse funny side, a once top level amateur (pro edge) snooker player I often watch at the hall, when asked if he could give me a few pointers to improve my stroke, said, absolutely deadpan, "there's too much". I about fell off the chair, laughing. His stroke is GORGEOUS, like a machine, looks exactly the same, in terms of basic mechanics, on every shot. One pro I think has a really beautiful stroke is Allison Fischer, like Ron's it always looks the same, and looks dead 'correct standard' to me. Obviously there are many others. It never ceased to amaze me how some pros look almost like they are slow stroking, and get amazing action, a la Reyes and others. It's hilarious you picked her. I wrote all of that at the front end of the video. Great minds think alike.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing you thoughts and stories. Good stuff.

Very good video. It's something that I'm always trying to improve.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks. I hope it helps.

Always useful information; great video. We pool players have to take a lesson from the amazing precision and consistency we see in snooker players. It used to be that some top snooker players had stroke idiosyncracies (Alex Higgins was probably the best known example). Now, all snooker players play essentially the same -- using the form described here. Snooker players have learned the huge importance of the principles you demonstrate in this video. Allison Fisher, btw, began as a snooker player.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Well stated. Many of the top pool players with "best practices" techniques came from the snooker world. I'm glad they did.

Played today for the first time in years and I did everything that I'm not supposed to do, but I remembered how much I love this sport.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

I’m glad you got to play. I hope that continues, even if you don’t do everything right. The most important FUNdamental is to have FUN.

As always great video Dr. Dave, I have printed a copy of the best practices and keep in my case for review from time to time when I feel like I'm not hitting the ball well.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks. I'm glad to hear it.

Thanks Dr Dave!! Always trying to improve

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

You're welcome. That's what the game is all about.

Great content.

@DrDaveBilliards

7 ай бұрын

Thanks. I'm glad you think so.

Good video Dave -with some good points made

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks. I’m glad you liked it.

Fedor Gorst is another technical player. Good fundamentals. Great video, Doc! 😁

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Agreed. Thanks!

Great video @DrDaveBilliards! I’ve seen some “experienced” players leave somewhat mean-spirited comments about avoiding unconventional technique (like dropping the elbow during follow through), but you nicely point out that, as long as one achieves good, consistent results, a stroke is successful! I would also point out that one of the greatest snooker players of all time, Ronnie O’Sullivan, has a HUGE elbow drop on almost all of his shots. Barry Stark, another great online coach (for snooker specifically), has pointed to this elbow drop and follow through as one of the reasons why O’Sullivan is so dominant.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Ronnie is so talented, I bet he could master any technique, even one that is more "mainstream" or "best practices based." Although, elbow drop does have advantages for some people: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/elbow-drop/#advantages

@beercanbrian1880

3 жыл бұрын

This is so spot on it should be required viewing for anyone who can't run a rack. I don't have the long smooth stroke I did in my heyday 30 years ago. My stroke today looks just like Alan Hopkins stoke. Short and sweet for straight cueing.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

@@beercanbrian1880 If it works, it is "good."

Great tips... thank you.. Jumping up after a shot is what i need to work on most.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Me too. I’m an impatient sort.

@emsnewssupkis6453

3 жыл бұрын

I know, it is tempting to 'dance' when shooting.

Thank you so much 💯

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

You’re welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

I'll be working on this tomorrow morning. Especially #11.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

If I had to pick just one that is the most important, it is 11. Good luck!

Thank you for tips for good strokes

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

You're welcome.

Awesome!

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks!

very informative

@DrDaveBilliards

2 жыл бұрын

I'm glad you think so. FYI, I have many more videos and info dealing with the stroke here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/ Check it out.

Different strokes for different folks👍🇳🇿

💪my guy

Thanks!

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

You're welcome!

Ever look at what's best practice for the back and spine position. Quite often I feel like it's easier to achieve a pendulum stroke with a more bent or hunched back it creates more space between your chest and the cue. I don't imagine there's any long-term health problems but I guess it depends on how much you hunch. In my mind perfect form always involves a perfectly straight spine but maybe that's not the case if you look at those players. Personally I feel like I shoot a little better if I remember to hunch a little bit. I don't have to do nearly as much elbow drop as well. This is a great video to revisit when start to bring back all those bad habits into your stroke.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

I wouldn't think it would be good to mess with back/spin bending; but if something works, go with it. FYI, I have some good advice for how to keep the elbow still (the key for a pendulum stroke) in the answer to the 2nd main question here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/elbow-drop/

Hey DrDaveBillards I think i follow the ellbow naturally because im 6,4 (1,95m) and always played with a normal length Queue. I also cant do the standing warm up stroked that professionals usually do before breaking. And the long bridge is also very weird for me. I feel like im off balance too.

Really good breakdown

@DrDaveBilliards

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks. FYI, a lot more stuff similar to this can be found here: billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/ Enjoy!

@Erkkremlinklum

2 жыл бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards much appreciated!

@DrDaveBilliards

2 жыл бұрын

@@Erkkremlinklum You're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

I agree with the intro. If it works for you, it's good. If you cannot perform every shot with your stroke, you need to change/improve it.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

I would add "... accurately and consistently" to "perform every shot ..."; otherwise, well stated.

I would like to tip my hat to you for starting off the video showing the different styles of top level players to illustrate the point that what works for one might not work for someone else. In general, for any skill, there is a set of foundational principles that the beginner is taught on top of which to build their personal skills. At that stage, we see most folks striving to learn proper technique. At the intermediate stage, the person has gotten a solid grasp of the fundamentals and will be applying them to best fit their approach to the skill. At the advanced stage, the fundamentals are always in place, but have been adopted to best suit the individual player depending on factors like height, body type, arm length, vision alignment, stance width etc. This develops into individualized signature style. So the player is well advised to keep that in mind and not get too fixated over pedagogical principles about how one ought to play but at the same time needs to keep in mind the ideas behind the recommended techniques so they can improve their game over time. As always, thanks for the great content, along with a certain amount of understanding that what works for Peter might not always work for Paul.

@DrDaveBilliards

Жыл бұрын

Well stated.

Great topic to cover, as I've pointed this out to plenty of players that I've reviewed! I've said before, on a podcast, "You can have bad mechanics and still be a great pool player". What would you suppose to is average learning curve between mastering "best practices" or mastering "bad mechanics"?

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Chris. And excellent question. Obviously, the answer depends a lot on the person, and everybody has a limit to the level of "mastery" achievable, based on the many factors listed here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/advice/pro/ But, to answer you question in simple terms, as applied to average pool players, I think "best practices" mechanics can quicken improvement quite a bit, maybe by 10-30%. And I think it can also lead to greater mastery for some people. But like we both say, any technique can be mastered with enough talent and enough repetition. Best regards.

@jamesdavis8731

3 жыл бұрын

Yes, you can have bad mechanics and still be a really good or even great player - but that is rare. Very few GREAT players of today have what would even be considered average mechanics. Almost all of them have really solid fundamentals and mechanics. Good fundamentals and mechanics take a lot of the learning curve out of being a good player. As an example: Francisco Bustamante, who I have had the pleasure of meeting here in the Philippines and watching him play. You would not want to teach people his stroke. But he has obviously made it work. But I see many many many Filpino players try to copy his stroke (and Efren's) with disastrous results. You can see NFL QB's with poor mechanics sometimes be really good to elite - like Brett Favre, but that is also the exception. The same goes for baseball players, basketball players, and about any type of sport. Good mechanics give you a good head start. Speaking of mechanics that work out well - but you don't see from many top players - Dr. Daves stance. It is very crowded and looks super uncomfortable. In fact it is the most uncomfortable looking stance from a decent player I have ever seen. But Dr. Dave has made it work for him.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

@@jamesdavis8731 I have evolved my stance over the years into what it is now for several important reasons. If you or others want to know why, see the last two videos here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/advice/ In simple terms, I am tall (6'3"), and my knee bend and square stance allows me to get my head low without any neck, back, or hamstring discomfort or pain. Enjoy!

@RodgerMyers

3 жыл бұрын

@@jamesdavis8731 I think Efrrin's stroke has bad mechanics ... He has perfected it , but it amazes me that he has , especially at his level of English etc .

@jamesdavis8731

3 жыл бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards I hope you did not take my comment as criticism, because that is not how it was meant. And you are obviously a really good player. It just looks so uncomfortable to me. But it works for you, and that is all that matters. Eklent Kaci is a tall player also, but seems much more relaxed. Anyway, good video and so true. If a persons stance and stroke work for them - that is all that really matters. But good fundamentals give you a head start.

Good looking stroke there Dave.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you. I hope you also like the instructional content of the video.

@Blessed.2.Teach.4God

3 жыл бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards Yep absolutely, as always... Take care friend.

Great video! All excellent points and tips! I like the new shirt! Will have to place an order soon !

@ericpoolguysimpson2954

3 жыл бұрын

Btw. My live 9 ball match will be Tuesday 9pm EST! On Bang Time Pool channel!

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Awesome. I'll try to remember to check it out to see what shirt you wear. Good luck!

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

I'm glad you liked the video.

@ericpoolguysimpson2954

3 жыл бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards good day Dr. Dave. Thought id throw a reminder if you are around tomorrow evening 9pm EST to check out the virtual tourney. I will have quite the outfit. On Bang Time Pool channel. Hope you can stop in and give a shout out!

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

@@ericpoolguysimpson2954 I have it in my calendar and I'll try to check it out and post something. Good luck and play well! I look forward to seeing your shirt selection.

Hi Dr. Dave! Thank you again for this helpful video. I revisit this frequently to make sure I’m following best practices and it’s helped me a lot. I had a quick question. I’ve reviewed all the best stroke practices and usually what works for me is after warming up I verify the tip position during the pause and then shift my gaze to the OB and lock in before shooting. Is it best to verify tip position, then cue alignment / aim, then back to the CB, then to the OB? I was wondering if I am missing something by not returning to the CB again after my warm up strokes before I am using laser focus on the OB.

@DrDaveBilliards

Жыл бұрын

What is “best”is what is the most accurate and consistent for you personally. Both techniques are good as long as you focus on and carefully check the tip position and cue alignment and lock your focus on the OB before the final stroke.

@philipv.mcharris5010

Жыл бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards amazing, thank you Dr. Dave!!

Hi Dr.Dave can you make one episode on the how to position the wrist correctly? I saw some bend it, either inward or outward. Is it ideal to not bend it at all?

@DrDaveBilliards

2 жыл бұрын

The wrist should be relaxed, with the cue hanging beneath the elbow in its natural position. For more info, see the videos and other resources here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/technique/ and here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/wrist/ Enjoy!

I'm a right handed player yet i have a left dominant eye. What do you suggest for better aiming? ( tilting my head feels really awkward and give me neck pain sometimes.)

@DrDaveBilliards

2 жыл бұрын

First, make sure you find your personal "vision center" position per the info and videos here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/vision-center/ If you have trouble comfortably getting your head in that position, work on finding your personal "best stance" per the 3rd video and other info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/advice/ Good luck!

In "Play your best 9 & 10 ball", p9 (2014 print, 2nd edition), Capelle says (on point #10) to drop the elbow after contact and that this is a fundamental part of the stroke. Assuming a single lever action (at the elbow), the forearm swing would cause the cue to rise after contact without an elbow drop. Your thoughts, DrDave?

@DrDaveBilliards

Жыл бұрын

The elbow should definitely not drop during the stroke into the CB. What the elbow does during the follow through (after the CB is gone) is really not important. For more info, see the videos, info, and advice here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/elbow-drop/

Would you say that it is bad if your tip gears slightly left or right (1/4") when you stroke firmly through the cue ball? Or should your cue follow perfectly through the center of the ball?

@DrDaveBilliards

3 ай бұрын

Ideally, the cue goes straight; but if it veers off a little after the hit, that’s not really a problem (assuming it is occurs after the hit).

Dr Dave what’s the definitive billiard book that best explains drills, mental game, fundamentals, safeties, cue ball control, stroke, etc. for increasing your game from Advanced player to professional or even something that the most experienced professionals can benefit from? Absolute best book in your opinion?

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

The best "book" that covers everything well: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/ Concerning traditional books, there is no one books that covers everything well. Here is a good recommendation list: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/book/recommended/

7:36 . i had exactly the same problem as her. my right hand not move in straight line. how i fix it? thanks Dr.

@DrDaveBilliards

Жыл бұрын

The most common causes are shoulder/elbow motion with “chicken wing” action, and wrist turn. For more info, see the videos and info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/technique/ And here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/elbow-drop/ And here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/drill/stroke/ Good luck!

Thank you again for this video, Dr. Dave! I had a quick question. I notice at 4:24 it seems as though your elbow is dropping just a bit during the stroke and in some other videos at faster speed strokes (but it could also just be the joint moving naturally during the follow through in the stroke)- is it okay for the elbow to drop slightly in that way or is the goal to try and remain completely still in the elbow at all speeds to whatever degree possible? I noticed my elbow drops a hair on faster speed shots and was wondering if it’s best to try to remain 100% still at all times. Thanks Dr. Dave!

@DrDaveBilliards

Жыл бұрын

There is nothing wrong with letting the elbow drop a little (or even a lot) if the drop occurs after the hit. It is actually difficult to prevent this with fast-speed shots since the momentum of the arm and cue pull the arm forward during the follow through. See the videos and info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/elbow-drop/

@philipv.mcharris5010

Жыл бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards This is very helpful, thank you Dr. Dave!!

@DrDaveBilliards

Жыл бұрын

@@philipv.mcharris5010 You're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

Do you have any videos on back hand mechanics?

@DrDaveBilliards

Жыл бұрын

Yes: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/grip/ Enjoy!

When I follow through I hit my chest with the grip hand after cue ball contact . Is this a problem of my stance or it's not a problem?

@DrDaveBilliards

9 ай бұрын

It is not a problem since it happens after the CB is gone.

Dr. Dave I am working on my stroke I dont have my elbow raised up as high as you and sam when i am shooting it seems uncomfortable to me is this going to affect my stroke?

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

My elbow is high because I am tall and have long arms. Also, I have my head low to the cue, which has the advantages here! billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/low/ Regardless, your elbow doesn’t need to be as high as mine. FYI, a lot more stroke advice can be found here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/technique/

@johnwalding9457

3 жыл бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards Many thanks

What are your thoughts on having the cue run against the side of your body during the stroke? I see that you do it, but I also see people that do not.

@DrDaveBilliards

Жыл бұрын

It can help some people keep their stroke straighter. For me, it has no effect on the stroke. I do it only because this is my "personal best stance" position per the videos here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/

Hi Dr. Dave! Just a quick question: is there a certain amount or range of pre-strokes recommended? Between 2 & 3 pre-strokes, is there an arguable benefit to the idea that more would be better, or does it just depend on what’s most consistent for people? Thank you!

@DrDaveBilliards

6 ай бұрын

This is a personal thing. 2-3 is common, but some people are effective with none, or just a few mini feather strokes.

@philipv.mcharris5010

6 ай бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards thank you, Dr. Dave!

@DrDaveBilliards

6 ай бұрын

@@philipv.mcharris5010 You’re welcome. I am to swerve. :)

Dear Dr Dave, normally I play with a J stroke and consequently elbow drop. To do that my forearm is not at 90 degree, but a little forward. Instead if I keep 90 degree elbow it's natural for me use a pendulum stroke with still elbow. My question is : with a J stroke you MUST have your grip hand and not at 90 degree or you can play a J stroke even with 90 degree elbow? Many thanks.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

You can use a pendulum stroke or a "J" stroke with the forearm at any angle, assuming you don't drop the elbow until after the hit.

Hey Dr. Dave, what about Fedor Gorst's stroke? I thought his stroke technique is pretty perfect.

@DrDaveBilliards

Жыл бұрын

Fedor and many pros use what is called a "J" stroke, where the stroke is pendulum-like into the ball and piston-like (with shoulder motion and elbow drop) during the follow-through (after the CB is gone). This technique is great as long as the timing of the elbow drop is consistent (and not early) and assuming the elbow drops straight down and not out with "chicken-wing" motion (especially early). For more info, see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/pendulum-piston/ Any stroke style can be mastered with enough practice and successful experience.

Hi champ.. i hope you can read and reply quick for this answer.. which part of arms you use when back-swinging and forwarding the cue? Is it forearm or upperarm? Hope you read this🙏🏻

@DrDaveBilliards

2 ай бұрын

The forearm/wrist/grip should remain relaxed during the stroke. The upper arm does all the work.

Awesome video Dr. Dave, smooth stroke...swing softly, hit harder in the same time (philosophy of Kung Fu). Smooth stroke flows like water in alpha state mind. Be a stroke itself. Thank you Dr. Dave, this enlightenment in pool.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

You're welcome, Grasshopper. :)

Hey id like to run something by you. Would love your input on this. Ik generally you want a straight, solid stroke. But lately ive kind of felt around with little up down sway cue motion. Its hard to explain in text. But if you’re familiar with the cue motion of Svb, thats what im talking about. I try to practice straight stroke, one back-forth motion as thats all i really knew and thats what ive been doing. But i notice that sometimes when i apply that svb like, up down sway stroke, it improves my accuracy. Shots like up table, blind cuts to the corner. I typically miss those but the other night i tried that stroke and felt like i had a higher success rate in certain shots. But also i feel like a stroke like that, always, may be harmful? Idk. Ik this comment is long lol but your input on this would be appreciated. Im just not certain if i should continue to work on that sway, svb like stroke. Or if i should stick to the ideal, straight back-forth motion. Thank you🙌🏼

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

I recommend doing whatever works best. But in general, I think it is best to keep the stroke as simple as possible like a pure pendulum stroke.

@Mickster114

3 жыл бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards yea i suppose your right. But man that little sway stroke feels so right sometimes lol. But i dont think its best for consistency. Appreciate your feedback🙌🏼

How to avoid deceleration on very slow roll shots(less than lag speed)? The cue almost always goes off line on these shots .

@DrDaveBilliards

3 ай бұрын

Use a short stroke with all the "best practices" of a normal stroke. For more info, see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/speed/advice/ billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/technique/

Hey Dave, I see you wear glasses as do I I recently started playing pool again and find the glasses problematic Are your glasses made for playing? Do I need separate glasses for pool? I really enjoy your videos!

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

I will be doing a video on this soon, but in the mean time, check out: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/glasses/

Hi Dr. Dave!!! I hope you notice my comment HAHAHAHA but can i ask, why does other pool players position their cue in the right side or left side of the chin instead of below it? (like earl strickland, niels feijen, albin ouschan, etc.) hope u notice me HAHAHAHAHA thanks doc, more power!

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Every individual has a unique "vision center" position. For many people it is with the cue exactly between the eyes. For others, it isn't. For more info, see the videos and info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/vision-center/ Enjoy!

Sometimes my elbow goes down too after i release the shot but does it matter? Or it still alright especially when u got the cue ball placed well and the position of next ball is good too

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

If you drop your elbow straight down and get consistent results, it doesn't matter. For more info, see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/elbow-drop/

@rifqifalih1968

3 жыл бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards i see dr dave. One more question, to actually stroke the ball i wonder which part of our hands that moves. Is it our hand or arm or can we use upper arm too? Sometimes when i pull back and stroke the ball again i use my hand only some people say that only our forearm that moves. But sometimes i dont feel like using my forearm either. Ive been wondering of how to use when striking the cue ball

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

The generally recommend technique is to use the forearm only. See the videos and info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/technique/ and here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/pendulum-piston/ Enjoy!

@rifqifalih1968

3 жыл бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards thank you so much dr dave this helps a lot

What if you have a different stroke? I have more of a J stroke and been playing for a 1 year or so

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

As long as you are consistent and drop your elbow straight and after the hit, a "J" stroke is fine.

Do you prefer that cue extension over the predator version that goes on the end?

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Because I am tall (6’3”), I like the permanent joint extender. I also use the butt extension on long reach shots.

@fischerhobbs1732

3 жыл бұрын

I like what you have, but I have a Predator sp2 revo which is black and red, and I don’t think it would look good with the wood color in the middle.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

@@fischerhobbs1732 I don’t like the looks either, but I care more about function than looks.

Hiw about Efren Reyes the magician how can you tell about his stroke

@DrDaveBilliards

10 ай бұрын

Efren consistently delivers a straight stroke with the cue with the tip contact he wants with the speed he wants, so his stroke is “good.”

What about filler? Darren Appleton says he has the best stroke and fundamentals he has ever seen. And the king of deliberate pause: feijen :) The whole thing about controling the backswing has tremendously improved my game. Another thing i realized quite a while ago is that me and people are obesessed with the arm mechanics. They will try to feel how the arm is moving. What helped me, thats funny actually, is shifting the focus on something that is easier for the brain to work with. I started just thinking and focusing on pushing the cue forward in a straight line. I know this might sound weird and stupid, but many people focus on the mind muscle connection of the arm.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Agreed. Their mechanics are also great examples. There are many others we can list. Although, Niels' head position is a little weird (due to his vision issues). His "vision center" position is very different than most people.

@mr.lootybutthole

3 жыл бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards yes indeed it is on the side of his face. I changed the first answer a bit, what do you think of it ? :)

@mr.lootybutthole

3 жыл бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards btw: i hope you like to hear, that here in germany almost 80-90% of club players know who you are and have at one point of their career learned from your videos, even nowadays european top players. I really hope that in the future, you will be inducted into the hall of fame for your contribution to the sport. And i guess this is a fairly realistic possibility :)

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

That's very kind of you to say. Thank you!

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

I read your edited post. I like it. Anything that's help's an individual achieve a desired goal is a good thing.

Any recommendations to get rid of tensing up during a stroke?

@DrDaveBilliards

2 жыл бұрын

The best advice is to really focus on it during practice. Tell yourself to stay relaxed before each shot. And after each shot, stay down and still until you ask yourself and verify if you are still relaxed after the shot. Then repeat until it comes naturally. The videos and info here might help too: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/good-timing/ billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/acceleration/ Enjoy, and good luck!

@alexandergoodson2504

2 жыл бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards Thanks so much for the advice I will give this a try and respond with how it has worked. I have noticed that when I properly align with the cueball and pick a spot on the cueball that is aligned with my shot alignment (sorry difficult to describe exactly) then my stroke is far better. I think the tensing up is more of lack of mental clarity on the outcome.

Not that anyone asked, but I have enjoyed some significant improvement recently, as a direct result of shortening and slowing the backswing. Everything's different now.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

A short backswing is good for softer shot (because the less you move, the less can go wrong), but it promotes jerking (non-smooth acceleration) for faster shots, which can cause stroking error.

@JustCallMeLoathesome

3 жыл бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards Oh, I don't dispute that. But with the bulk of my playing on a 7-foot table, I haven't really needed to incorporate many faster shots. Matter of fact, I've come to learn just how little speed I really need to play this game.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

@@JustCallMeLoathesome ... especially on fast cloth.

Hello Dr.dave

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Hello Lance

Another way to contribute good stroke are....take it easy and calm down. Sometimes I have to say to myself “Take it easy bro, there’s no need to be rushed to improve progressively.

where do I find "best practices" ?

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Stroke "best practices:" billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/technique/ "Best practices" for other important fundamentals: billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/fundamentals/

Your video, “10 ways to stop missing”, is helpful, but the funny look you give is HI-larious. You’re clearly imitating reactions you’ve seen of people not quite as talented. 😂 I need to save up for your pool school. Or come to Az? I’m sure you could get a decent class size for one go.

@DrDaveBilliards

2 жыл бұрын

I'm glad you like my "acting." I hope you can make to one of our Boot Camps some day. We give them only in Fort Collins (Colorado) since we have so much demand for the courses, which almost always fill. So the chances of an AZ course are pretty much nill.

Even following all your advice on stance and stroke, I still don't understand how to make the shot while looking at the object ball. EVERY time I take a shot with my eyes on the object ball, I miss. Yet when I keep them on the cue ball for the entire shot, I make a lot of shots. What am I missing? Is that really that important? It just makes things worse for me.

@DrDaveBilliards

Жыл бұрын

Pretty much every top player focuses on the OB during the stroke. For more info, see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/pattern/ If you are having trouble with this, you probably have some stroke flaws. If so, the videos and info here might help: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/technique/

Ayoo 🥲🥲🥲

My biggest issue. I never knew all the issues in my stroke tell I started playing on bigger tables. My ball likes to deviate on long shots. In short shots I have no issue because the Q deviation is allot smaller.

@DrDaveBilliards

11 ай бұрын

Obviously, it is better to me more accurate on shots of all distances on all tables! :)

I have severe anxiety and I keep taking my eye off cue ball and look down the table

@DrDaveBilliards

2 жыл бұрын

Easy fix ... stop doing that. :) Seriously, the video and info here might be helpful: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/mental/ Enjoy!

Dr. Dave, I believe if you finish well, the stroke was good. It means you smoothly moved the tip straight thru the ball. You did not poke or stop the forward momentum and and did not take your eyes off the contact point of the object ball...if you miss, you can immediately know what you did wrong....and correct that mistake with practice. If one practices finishing the stroke, I think all possible stroke problems can be broken down, and corrected. I think Snooker players are generally better strokers than pool players and I suspect that’s what makes you the professional that you are .....chin on cue....etc....etc...

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

To me, the finish is a symptom of a good stroke, not the cause. Otherwise, I agree with your points.

Players with heterodox stroke technique: Francisco Bustamante Keith McCready Allen Hopkins John Schmidt Players to watch for great stroke technique: Allison Fisher Chang Jung-Lin Chris Melling Eklent Kaci Tyler Styer

I need 15 secrets to a consistent stroke. Maybe 20. Lololololol

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Haha. 11 should be enough to at least get you started. :)

Very good tips, however I prefer not do a pause before the striking since it ruins my fluency and cue ball hit point accuracy.

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

There is nothing wrong with not pausing, assuming you don't rush or jerk the transition.

Doc, I have a question. When I see trickshot players on youtube playing masse shots they seem to be able to put extreme amounts of spin on the ball. When I try my best to play a power draw shot, the spin I put on the ball is nowhere near the amount trickshot players put on the ball with masse shots. So, my question is: does playing a shot with a near vertical cue allow you to put more spin on the ball? I know how you debunked that a slightly elevated cue doesn't put more draw on the cueball, but when players like Venom Trickshots play masse shots, it makes me question reality. Cheers!

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

With an almost vertical cue, the tip can trap the CB against the slate during the hit, creating more force and more spin, but the main effect explaining what you are seeing is: with more cue elevation, the CB is getting lots of spin but less forward motion, so the curve or draw happens sooner, as with a quick draw shot: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/draw/quick/

Absolutely baffled he didn’t mention Mr. Smooth himself!! Aka John Morra

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Many pros are good to watch ... Morra included (except is "vision center" alignment is very unique and should not be modeled by most).

Everyone has a dominant eye; for most righthanders its also the right eye but obviously it also can be the left eye. And vice versa for lefthanders. Question is do you need to be aware of this for a good stroke?

@wouterdc3290

3 жыл бұрын

ok; already found billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/vision-center/

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

See also: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/dominant-eye/ Enjoy!

KZread is over doing the commercials great videos though

@DrDaveBilliards

2 жыл бұрын

I'm glad you liked the video despite the YT ads.

I tell my self "when in doubt pinky out" The pinky provides 50% of grip strength I use the index middle and ring finger sometimes Hi Dr Dave

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

I'm not sure what you mean, but Hi.

@walterreedjr6762

3 жыл бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards i commented in a different video that i sometimes don't grip the cue with my pinky finger because most of your grip strength comes from your pinky. I also mentioned just moving my wrist a little bit for shots that don't require a long stroke. You mentioned that there is nothing wrong with it if it works.

@walterreedjr6762

3 жыл бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards you did a video a bout good draw shot about a month ago Thats where i comments about the wrist and pinky

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Got it. I was just a little confused by your comment on this video. Now I understand. Thanks.

These are not "secrets", these are some of the textbook basics. This barely scratches the surface of what you need to know to have a pro stroke. Some of the actual secrets have to do with a) visualization. What exactly are you visualizing is 80% of the game ( e.g. are you visualizing your wrist moving, or your cue moving, or cb + ob impact, or the object ball disappearing into the pocket, etc ) b) are you focused on the stick moving straight or are you focused on "feeling" only and avoiding all swing thoughts. Etc. I listed just SOME of the things you need to explore in order to approach pro speed. There are many many more. Everything discussed in this video is an outdated version of the very textbook basics imho. That said, most elite pros have been shooting since 4 years old and they couldn't break down their stroke if their life depended on it. They just don't know how to miss because a pro stroke is as easy for them as walking is for you ( hit a million balls system ).

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

If you use the HAMB system, you don't need to "know" anything to have a "pro stroke." Concerning some of the other things you mention, they are covered here along with many other important elements of a "pro stroke:" billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/fundamentals/ billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/ billiards.colostate.edu/faq/pre-shot-routine/best-practices/ billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/ billiards.colostate.edu/faq/mental/ billiards.colostate.edu/faq/advice/pro/

Okay

@DrDaveBilliards

Жыл бұрын

Okay then.

First

I bn doing all the last NoNo s

@DrDaveBilliards

2 жыл бұрын

Now you know what to work on, then. :) Good luck with your game!

But the pros drop their shoulder on the follow through. See the clips of Bustamante you included in the video. He drops his shoulder slightly as he follows through but what you are teaching does not drop the shoulder in the slightest.

@HardcoreLaw-hg9ce

4 ай бұрын

I don't mean drop their shoulder. I mean they drop their elbow. Strickland also drops his elbow on his follow through.

@DrDaveBilliards

4 ай бұрын

Agreed, many pros (especially older pros) collapse their shoulder and drop their elbow during the follow through, and some even do this during the stroke into the ball. There are both advantages and disadvantages to dropping the elbow. See: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/elbow-drop/ However, most people have better accuracy and control if they keep their shoulder and elbow still during the stroke.

@HardcoreLaw-hg9ce

4 ай бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards Thanks for the reply. I would think not dropping the elbow provides better consistency.

POV: you just bought a pool table 😂😂

@DrDaveBilliards

2 жыл бұрын

Sorry, but I don't "get it." Please explain.

@User-xc2me

2 жыл бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards since he just got a pool table hes looking up vids like these

@DrDaveBilliards

2 жыл бұрын

Got it. Thanks.

do u have to go back slow ?

@DrDaveBilliards

6 ай бұрын

… only if you want to be accurate and consistent. For more info, see the videos and info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/good-timing/

@colstontryhard

6 ай бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards thank u so much dr dave

@colstontryhard

6 ай бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards some players don’t go back slow that’s why i was asking

@DrDaveBilliards

6 ай бұрын

@@colstontryhard Not every top players exhibits stroke “best practices,” but most do.

Hi Dr. Dave! This is so helpful. I had a quick question. I recently watched a video of Mark Wilson mentioning the average time for the final back stroke to impact for pros is 1.2-1.8 while it is .3-.8 for amateurs. Do you think it’s worth timing my back swing in that way, or does it vary depending on the shot, back pause etc? Thanks so much for all your helpful videos! Here’s the video (3:26) kzread.info/dash/bejne/a4yLlMqgY6m6pZc.html

@DrDaveBilliards

Жыл бұрын

It is definitely helpful to have a slow backswing, a non-rushed transition to the forward stroke, and smooth acceleration through the CB. For help with this, see the videos and info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/technique/

@philipv.mcharris5010

Жыл бұрын

Thank you, Dr. Dave! For closer shots with a shorter bridge length / if I’m not using a back pause, should those be the same time as more standard shots? When timing then I noticed that those shots take less time (closer to .8-1s) and I wasn’t sure if that was an issue. I’ve watched all of your stroke videos / and those of the pros you mentioned with best technique, and it seems like they have different stroke speeds / timing for different shots, but I know they have countless hours of experience so just wanted to inquire around if anything changes regarding stroke timing (if I’m using Ladies and Gentleman or Back Slow..and Accelerate”) Thanks again, Dr. Dave! My game has improved so much from your tips and videos!

@DrDaveBilliards

Жыл бұрын

I wouldn't worry about the exact times. Regardless of backstroke length, just focus ongoing back slow, not rushing the transition to the forward stroke, and accelerating smoothly. A shorter stroke will naturally take less time (but don't worry about this).

@philipv.mcharris5010

Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much, Dr. Dave! I’m also noticing that on spin / draw shots I’m having trouble getting good action when I am utilizing my standard back pause. When I remove the back pause that I use, I tend to get better action. Is that a general occurrence (because the pause disrupts the pendulum momentum)? In other words, if I generally use a back pause, but on spin / draw shots it makes it challenging, should I work on using the back pause and getting better action for stroke consistency, or is it okay to vary that on certain shots and just focus on the slow draw back?

@DrDaveBilliards

Жыл бұрын

@@philipv.mcharris5010 You don't need to add a distinct pause. The key is the going back slow and not rushing the transition.

To bad i watched efren and shane when i started so i will always have a “bad stroke” haha

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

If a stroke is effective and consistent, then It is a “good” stroke.

I came here expecting a completely different topic.

@CS-bh4ur

Жыл бұрын

😂😂😂😂

@xXSubScorpionXx

2 ай бұрын

Duuude 🙂‍↕️🙂‍↕️🤣🤣🤣👌👌 but well, you can aply most of the concepts anyways 😂

Jim Rempe

The real game of billiards had no pockets

@isaachimself

4 ай бұрын

when i was 5 years old my mother killed a spider with a tea cozy

I play so much better when I play with a smaller diameter tip... I'm not sure what's wrong with my game

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

If you want to work on your fundamentals (which is usually the cause of most things wrong with most people's games), see the videos and other resources here: billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/fundamentals/

Misread at first and thought this said "10 Secrets of a Good Joke"

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

Maybe I'll consider that for a future video. Although, I would need Rollie's help.

@LaVerdad65

3 жыл бұрын

1. Misdirection 2. Setup 3. Delivery 4. Timing 5. Deez nuts 😎

@DrDaveBilliards

3 жыл бұрын

@@LaVerdad65 "Misdirection" ???

@LaVerdad65

3 жыл бұрын

@@DrDaveBilliards The subversion of expectations can have a comedic effect :)