by jayj

Created on: August 22, 2007

The first and most important thing to learn in order to play a really good game of pool or bridge is to have the correct stance. This means that your feet and body will be in the right position, so that the cue can glide through and shoot the ball. To do this you will need the following:

Good balance.
Correct positioning of your feet, arms, head and torso.
A good bridge

To feel comfortable.

BALANCE
Balance is very important, because a good stroke needs only minimal body movement, apart from when your arm moves to swing the cue. So stand comfortably with both feet spaced apart and firmly on the ground. A tall man will need to space them further apart then a short man, because he will need more space to bend down to the table. This low stance will give you the best sighting for the balls.

POSITION OF YOUR FEET
Your left foot should come forward to give support, as you lean over the table to take aim at your ball. Your body weight should be mainly on your left leg, which should now be slightly bent and your other leg should be straight.

POSITION OF YOUR ARM
Your arm should be stretched out straight and perpendicular to the table. It should always be at 90 degrees and stay this way even when you swing the cue. This will create a firm base for your bridge hand and will also make your whole stance steady and grounded. There should be space for your arm to swing freely. To do this, angle your body at 30 degrees from your 'cue' stick. You should be comfortable in this position.

BRIDGE
Your bridge, or the shape of the hand, should be 5-8 inches away from the cue ball. You need to spread your fingers and thumb out on the table. Next, lift your palm up while keeping the tips of your fingers and the heel of your hand on the table. Press your thumb to your forefinger. This will make a V shape in which the cue will sit.

POSITION OF YOUR TORSO
You need to lower your upper body in order to ensure your 'cue' stick is as level as possible.

POSITION OF YOUR HEAD
Your head should be kept quite low and close to the 'cue' stick, in order that you are looking down it. Your chin should be between 6 and 12 inches from the cue and needs to feel comfortable. When you are positioned correctly look at the shot you are about to take and where you are going to strike the cue ball. Then look at the object ball. When you have this clear in your mind, keep your head down and strike through the shot.

In conclusion, this is the guide for a good stance, but remember everyone is different and the most important thing is to feel comfortable about yourself, your stance and your game.

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