How to Find the Perfect Pool/Snooker/Billiards Stance

[@DrDaveBilliards]

*Table of Contents:* - Intro [0:00] - Important Stance Attributes [0:25] - "Textbook" Pool Stance [1:04] - Snooker Stance [2:35] - Low Head [3:58] - Making Adjustments [5:11] - Testing Your Stance [6:41] - Stance Variations [7:03] - Dr. Dave's Stance Evolution [7:55] - Wrap Up [8:53] *Supporting Resources:* - stance FAQ resource page: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/advice/ - advantages of a low stance: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/low/ - fundamentals “best practices” check-sheet: billiards.colostate.edu/resource_files/fundamentals_check_list.pdf - pre-shot routine: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/pre-shot-routine/ - vision center: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/vision-center/ - stroke fundamentals: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/technique/

[@suewoo5]

You consistently have the best methods for instruction than any other channel and I appreciate that.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you! I really appreciate positive comments like this.

[@skmalladi]

Perhaps this can be summarized by saying "A stance is intrinsic to the player; and the shot." There is no one stance that works for everyone for every possible shot. Obviously. Hence a text book stance is, at best, a mere suggestion of what the basics look like. Once the basics are adhered to, the player can modify the stance as needed to best fit themselves and the shot. Your suggested basics about stability, stroke plane, comfort and feel etc. are all spot on. Thanks for yet another wonderful video. The pool community owes you a debt of gratitude.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Well stated. You're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

[@georgiougeorge9261]

Dr.Dave 's Stance Evolution Thank you so much...i feel so comfortable now(i am tall) No lower back pressure No left foot pressure Easy follow through Immediate improvement!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@georgiougeorge9261 You’re welcome. I’m glad to hear it.

[@LilChrisPoolPlayer]

"A good alternative is to bend the knee!" ~Daenerys Targaryen I absolutely love your content. You do such a fantastic job at breaking down the mechanics!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you. I aim to swerve. :)

[@richieurrutia6510]

I too bend @ knees

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@richieurrutia6510 ... so do some top players like Shane VanBoening, and he isn't even very tall.

[@LeonMusicful]

Top notch content. I’ve seen world class players teach, but they can’t explain things as clearly and thoroughly as you do

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you.

[@paulallen8772]

I've had shoulder and neck injuries. I've been trying to do the original American stance for too long. Your method has made a world of difference in letting me play without pain and still know my fundamentals are good. All the best to you and much success.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it.

[@everythingbobbywolfe]

Thanks, Dr Dave. I am so glad you debunked the snooker stance myth. I mostly play pool now, but still use my snooker cue and stance. I follow and screw back at least as well as anyone using a pool cue. Never encountered cue ball movements issues, while in a pool table. Glad a real pool instructor expressed this in a video.

[@Asd72180]

I love your wiggle moves Dave. Great instruction!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Asd72180 Thanks. Everybody should try the “wet noodle chicken dance.”

[@masondeal7484]

Just finished the final exam for your class and gotta say, I'm gonna miss your lectures. Luckily there's a whole graduated program for billiards! ;) you rock Dr. Dave

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Mason Deal Thanks for the message. I hope you did well on the Final.

[@ripacree8709]

I've been practicing my basics for some time now but everytime I find a new channel or information I always learn something new or better yet remember things that I've forgotten. You have the best teaching format so far. Thanks Dr. Dave

[@irvdehmler3953]

Thank you Dave for years of calm dedicated instruction

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You’re welcome, and thank you. I aim to swerve. :)

[@RedSinKen]

I literally figured out that final stance in this video by myself 3 days ago and used it as my main stance now. I just opened KZbin and saw this video on the front page and it pretty much summarized my same stance evolution. I checked to when was this video uploaded and damn, it is exactly 3 days ago, the same day I figured out that superb stance by myself! What a coincidence! Anyway, for me this is the best stance. It is so comfortable and stable. I can shoot much more consistent now. Thanks Dr. Dave for sharing this to every one.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I guess great minds think alike. :)

[@matthewdavis6403]

Exactly! Just as the beginning of the video says it's subjective, just like a baseball swing and stance, do what is comfortable and just practice, your stance and stroke will evolve on its own over time but to,look for that perfect stance/stroke will be pointless and endless. Thanks for all the effort and knowledge you put into these videos

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks for the positive comments. Concerning my stance, it didn't evolve on its own. I actively explored and implemented changes. Sometimes what comes naturally isn't the best approach.

[@jaybe2908]

I've seen some crazy stances over the years mostly from young players who never knew any better, it's just how they were when they first picked up a cue, they are fine at playing normal straight'ish shots, the problem is that they have a lot of trouble when they need to play a more advanced game.

[@jamescathcart4762]

Your spot on on this one. Alignment is everything so l found out.Been stepping into my shot text book style for months and wondered why my game was not getting better. Got in front of the mirror with a T-square and was shocked to see the butt of my cue was out of alignment by three inches. Tough for us tall guys to get aligned. Thanks for the great advice!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You’re welcome. I hope it helps.

[@tomaszsosnowski9279]

I've come across videos of Ralph Eckert playing pool. His stance is so relaxed, his chin is pretty high, yet his aim is on point. I can imagine that it's pretty suitable for long sessions of 4-6 and more hours at the table. Plus it looks cool, and pool should be a cool game to play.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

A lower stance is much better for accuracy with long shots on a table with tight pockets. For more info, see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/low/

[@mike1why]

Very timely for me, and informative and inspirational as ever. I'm a big fan of your scholarly studies as well. It helps me to line up the shot with the stick behind the cue ball, before stepping into the stance. It might help your other viewers, too. The stick is then already where it needs to be, the tip resting on the cloth where I will address the cue. The rest of it is learning to step into the stance around the stick, at the same time setting the bridge hand for the shot and picking up the stick. The goal is that everything is where they should be: head, stick, hands, arms, feet. It's simpler than this clumsy description might sound. So simple, I readily taught my left hand to do it as well.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you for the suggestion. I've also done this in the past and found it helpful at first; but with practice, I learned to naturally come down with the cue in the right place. I hope your suggestion helps others who might be reading this.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

FYI, it helps me to have the feet planted with good alignment before getting down into the stance. Then the cue has no choice but to be in the right place.

[@rpmevo8]

Thank you!!! This has been very beneficial to my game. I have lower back issues (need surgery) and a torn labrum in my left hip. By doing the foot dance movement, I was able to find my ideal placement while staying in line with the shot and maintaining balance. 👍

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. I'm glad to hear it!

[@Atticuzj]

Thanks a lot for the video dave. Recently got some critiques on my stance from a player I highly respect, who recommended a more "textbook" stance that felt very straining and unnatural for me. I was playing well and comfortable with a more snooker-like stance previously, and this video was a great help in having me realize there isn't one right answer. I'll continue to work on my stance with my specific body type and playing style in mind.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad you found it helpful. FYI, I have more videos and info dealing with stance advice here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/

[@okkrom]

The most pain I get is in the shoulder of the bridge arm, after 4-5 hours of practice. Great video, as usual. Thanks!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Elias Bargee I get that too, especially if I lean on my bridge hand too much. I’m glad you liked the video.

[@SpaceboyBilliards]

I get that a lot when I drill on breaking. I tend to put most of my weight on my bridge arm because it generates the most power for me with control. I need to adjust to stay healthy, though

[@OnTheSnap1]

@DrDaveBilliards Returning to the game after an 18 year hiatus, and now playing in very tight pockets. After having some frustrating weeks playing well on tight pockets, I discovered the vision center videos. My setup had my cue under my right eye, but my vision center was on the left side of my nose! After moving my head alignment my pocketing percentage on the right table increased dramatically. But now I’m struggling to find a comfortable stance as it’s causing me considerable neck pain trying to get my head on the right side of the cue. I will try the snooker stance to reduce the amount of neck bend needed and hopefully this will help. Just concerned it will hurt the stroke after watching the Mark Wilson videos. But the most accurate potters in the world setup this way so how bad can it be!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear my vision center stuff has helped. I hope you can also find your "personal best stance." Regardless of what some people might say, the most important thing is to have the forearm vertical, even if the shoulder isn't in the plane of the shot. For more info/help on the stance, see the videos and links here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/

[@hughm990]

Thank you! Your videos are helping me get back into my game.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it. You're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

[@JMGomez-mi2km]

I always tried the "textbook" or "orthodox" pool stance. Tried to force it, ended up hurting my right hamstring since I am a left-handed player. Thanks for this video which gave me an alternative and guide on how can I have a comfortable stance. Godspeed!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you found it helpful. Also check out my new stance video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZnLcaoKOo8etqa8

[@JMGomez-mi2km]

DrDaveBilliards Will do! Thanks so much!

[@ghost5horse6]

Nice video. I thought Dr Dave always play like a textbook. Really surprise to see Dr Dave created his own stance. And coincidentally I had the same issue that when I follow the textbook stance I feel so unforfortable. My most comfortable stance is exactly like Dr Dave's, and it helps me to aim significantly better.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The textbook advice isn't the best for everybody. I'm glad to hear you found something better, like me.

[@sohjunwen5490]

I really love this video. It gave me a lot of other ways to find my stance!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad you found it helpful.

[@walterherrera3733]

Awesome video as always. Thanks for what you do for the billiards community ! I have flexibility issues and was never be able to have a text book stance without feeling really uncomfortable. I have some hope now.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you ... and you’re welcome.

[@gnolan4281]

I quit playing pool at 22. I was very comfortable at the table then. Now I'm retired at 74 with plenty of time to play again except I'm having neck contortion discomfort owning to an improper stance so I'm limiting my time at the table to 30 minutes until I find the right adjustments. The cue ball at my pool hall has dots on it which revealed the spin I am inadvertently putting on it and which throws off the shots. Thanks for the help.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

This info and links here might help: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/finding-center-ball/

[@vcoolpool]

Dr Dave, again another great video. I'm 6'3 tall also and thinking about my stance while playing or practicing it seems like I float between all the different stances you did. Like you stated, each shot is different and are different spots on the table. I get a good stance when shooting from the top/bottom of the short rail versus having to shot over balls in the middle of the table.Thanks as always!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you like it. Thank you for the comments.

[@cristianmunteanu8765]

Great video! As always, you have the best info delivery methods.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you. I appreciate the positive feedback.

[@Zombies8MyPizza]

I use the same sort of stance as Dr. D, as I've been predominantly a snooker player for most of my time as a player, but I'm tall and keeping my right knee straight is uncomfortable. Definitely prefer to set my feet and cue in one smooth motion myself though, but it's all personal preference and you see pro's doing both, for example in snooker you have players like Neil Robertson who steps into the shot and rotates his upper body to set the cue down all in one motion, whereas others like Kyren Wilson shuffle their feet into place first before getting down to the table. Also a great point made about the myth of snooker stance not allowing for power shots. Judd Trump is a fine example, I've no idea of his maximum cue ball speed from his snooker stance but it could work as a break stroke!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks for the comments. Well stated.

[@lindsaytang1017]

I think it is around 30km/h

[@danelobe2524]

Great form Dr. Dave, and great advice and options !!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you. I appreciate the positive feedback.

[@medallion39]

I love the dance moves lol. I can doing this to hustle or annoy someone! On a serious note though this is good stuff

[@DrDaveBilliards]

rick kallio Thanks for the comments. Everybody should try the “Dr. Dave wet-noodle stance chicken dance.” :)

[@oxstorm644]

really good video! straight to the point

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I’m glad you liked it.

[@zahidsalam5704]

Thanks for the help. These videos are always great.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You’re welcome ... and thank you. I aim to swerve. :)

[@SonOfTheSoil834]

awesome as always dr Dave 🙏🏽👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿🤦‍♂️

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. FYI, I have other stance videos and advice here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/advice/ Check it out.

[@mikethebeginner]

Another thing I never see mentioned is that getting down lower on the shot helps with eye dominance issues. I went from being right-eye dominant to being left-eye dominant as the eyesight in my right eye deteriorated, and then back to right-eye dominant after my cornea replacement. This created significant problems with my aim in pool. I shoot best with my dominant eye on the shot line, over the cue, and the higher my head, the less obvious it is to me when my head is out of alignment. I’m still not 100% consistent with eye dominance-that is, it’s not back to being natural and unconscious for me-and a lower head position makes me more aware of it when I drift back into having problems with eye dominance.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. Having the head low, and even touching the chin to the cue, helps one be more aware of (and allows one to verify) proper "vision center" alignment. For more info, see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/low/ billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/vision-center/

[@yusufhasan302]

Good advice learned a lot!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@yusufhasan302 I’m glad to hear it.

[@vmax4steve524]

A pool table is not only smaller than a snooker table but also lower so the rifle sighting chin on cue stance isn't easy to accomplish, especially if you're tall. This doesn't matter so much on a small table with bigger pockets as sighting can be done with less of the cue shaft visible on the line of aim; move to a snooker table however and you need more cue visible on the line of aim to aid sighting so you have to get down lower. Your stance is to get the butt of the cue on the line of aim and your vision centre leads you in this as you flick focus from cue ball to object ball. As far as sighting goes it's important to know that only information from one eye is used to see a straight line but information from two eyes is needed for depth perception and judgement of angles. Your natural hand eye co-ordination will do this for you so all you have to do is look and see and the brain will subconsciously shut out information it doesn't need from one eye while sighting the straight line and take information from both eyes when judging distance and angles. Your vision centre, the place between your eyes where the brain sees a straight line, leads you in this so never ever take a stance that is supposed to be correct or textbook as this will put you in the wrong place. All the great players have one eye more over the cue to some degree, the very best have one eye directly over the cue and it's these that see the straight line the best. This used to be known as dominant eye theory but is now called vision centre and it may look like a cue is equally between a players eyes but stance, head position to the side or a tilt will put one eye very near to or directly over the cue. Ronnie O'Sullivan, Judd Trump, Neil Robertson, Mark Selby, Stephen Hendry, Shaun Murphy and Earl Strickland all have one eye directly sighting down the cue along the line of aim, some left eye some right eye but all have the correct stance to achieve this and it's generally boxer stance (one foot in front of the other) for opposite eye to hand sighting and square stance (feet level) for same hand same eye sighting. Slight variations of these two stances will put the head in the right place without any neck strain as the head will naturally drop to favour one eye over the other without having to twist it. If you're merely happy to be a good pool player then carry on as you are, but if you want to play great pool then adopt snooker basics, it's frightening how good the top pro snooker players are. If Earl Strickland had been english he had the style to make it as a top snooker player, dominant eye sighter with chin on cue stance shooting only from the elbow, Shane Van Boening being upright with too much shoulder in his action, no chance, but on a small table with big pockets he gets away with it.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks for the long comment. You make lots of good points.

[@tonicogsf]

Great video. I’m also 6’3 and have been struggling since I’m trying to change my stance, so that I can get the chin and chest contact. I still have to bend my knees a little bit more than you, since I have super long legs (even for my height), but it’s better than putting all that strain on the back. Still, a table just 3 inches or so higher would be a dream haha.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Antonio Sandoval Filho A higher table would definitely be more comfortable for taller people like us, but I don’t think the “vertically-challenged” players out there would appreciate it very much. :)

[@tonicogsf]

DrDaveBilliards hahaha I’m sure they wouldn’t. But well, there’s always shoes with heels hehe. Just kidding.

[@briansaunders5557]

Thank You Dr. Dave!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

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

[@matt-od8li]

I'm tall too and struggle w "textbook" stance. Thanks

[@DrDaveBilliards]

If you haven't done so yet, try out the things I've tried (see the end of the video). They work well for me.

[@stevenibanez7763]

Great video! Keep up the amazing work.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks.

[@nitecruzer]

DrDaveBilliards will you be trying out the Meucci carbon shaft and doing a video comparing it to the one of the other carbon shafts?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I don't have plans to since I don't have one, but anybody with the Meucci shaft can use the "natural pivot length" procedure in my shaft comparison video to see how the Meucci compares to the shafts I already testing, along with any other shafts one might want to test. For more info, see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/cue/natural-pivot-length/

[@dpbuc32]

Another Great video Dr.Dave. What is your opinion regarding the Dominant eye theory, meaning is it as important as some coaches say it is? In terms of your line up.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I guess it depends what is meant by "dominant eye." If they are referring to what I call one's personal "vision center" position, than I agree with the importance, per the info and demonstrations here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/vision-center/ If they are instead referring to placing one's "dominant eye" (standard definition for "ocular dominance") closer to or over the cue, then I disagree with the importance, per the info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/dominant-eye/

[@christopherjessngo629]

Books is there to guide us not to constrain. I had the same problem then with my back after a long game and i switch to what makes feels right to me and the difference is like night and day

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Some people treat textbook and instructor advice as strict doctrine. I’m glad you don’t.

[@pjc1200]

Hi Dr. Dave, great instructional videos. I wanted to get your suggestion about my stance and chin/head position w.r.t. my vision center, which i determined to be located in the inner half of my right eye, using your technique. When I get in my stance, I am able to keep the cue right under my vision center up until my chin is about 3-4 inches above the cue. Once I lower my chin to touch the cue, my vision seems to cross, and my left (non-dominant) eye focuses on the ball. Adjusting my head tilt to get my dominant eye refocused back on the ball causes uncomfortable twisting of my neck and body. Would you suggest that I stroke with my chin 3-4 inches above the cue, or should i get used to stroking with my chin touching the cue, which results in me using my non-dominant eye? Thanks!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Ideally, you should have your vision center over the line of the shot during the entire pre-shot routine all the way down into your stance. You should try to find a stance that allows you to do that, per the advice in this video. You might also find some of the info and advice at the following pages helpful: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/advice/ billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/vision-center/ billiards.colostate.edu/faq/pre-shot-routine/best-practices/

[@pjc1200]

Thanks Dr. Dave. I'll check out these pages for further help.

[@trankhoa9282]

Thanks a lot Dr.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Tran Khoa You’re welcome.

[@Transgenic86]

Hi Dr. Dave. Over the last few years, I noticed that using boots as opposed to using standard shoes or sneakers significantly increased my stability while shooting pool. Boots are made to increase stability and reduce the amount of bend in your ankles. I was wondering, have you tried shooting pool in boots before? And, if so, did you find it to help your stability while shooting?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Michael Yanni Thank you for the suggestion. My stance already feels fairly stable with my big and spread-out feet, but I’ll try it anyway. Hopefully, other people reading your post might find it helpful.

[@arthurv6903]

Great videos Dave! Do you ever play in any tournaments? I would enjoy some competition content from you, maybe some voiceover of reasoning of play or general thought. Thanks either way.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I don't get out much for tournament play. My "day job" limits when and how much I can travel, and I like doing others things on my weekends. Good idea about doing voice-overs for tournament matches, maybe discussing decisions being made and why they are good or not. I'll add this to my list. Unfortunately, my "list" (of things I want to do) is already very long.

[@arthurv6903]

@@DrDaveBilliards I can only imagine how much is on that list. Enjoy all the content you do put out nonetheless.

[@BushMan850]

That's spot on bro I too agree with lil Chris you da man 💯

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Fundamentals First Thanks. I appreciate all of the positive feedback.

[@jdp1219]

Great video! Something that I cannot figure out is when standing behind the shot should you stand with your vision center on the aim line or with your right foot on the aim line? It is not possible to do both because if you stand with your vision center on the aim line then your foot will be slightly right of the aim line and vice versa. Can you clarify?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Your vision center should be on the shot line before, during, and after the drop into your stance, regardless of where your feet are. If you put more weight on your right foot, you can get your head in the right place. For more info, see the other videos and info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/

[@jdp1219]

@@DrDaveBilliards Thanks! I've been watching many of your videos and they are great! You made a minor typo in your comment 🤣

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@jdp1219 Thanks. I just fixed the more-than-minor “typo.” :) Sometimes the auto-spell-checker gets a wild hair.

[@jdp1219]

@@DrDaveBilliards🤣 Are you able to analyze videos of my form if I send them to you?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Yes, per the info under "Video/Phone/E-Mail Lessons and Coaching" here: drdavebilliards.com/instruction/pool-school/

[@vedantkansara676]

Can you please make a video on how to prepare yourself for a big tournament?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I don't think video is the best presentation format for covering mental aspects of the game, but lots of info and advice on this topic can be found here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/mental/

[@caseysrodeo14]

Snooker stance works pretty well for me, I prefer the cue sliding against my side. Helps keep things in line personally....

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I also like that a snooker/style stance makes it easier to keep the face square to the shot with less neck contortion.

[@caseysrodeo14]

@@DrDaveBilliards Yes Sir, my cue is just to the left of my chin as well. I line up almost directly under my left eye. I'm left eye dominant of course. Some people say it doesn't matter which eye is dominant. Personally once again I can tell a difference...

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@caseysrodeo14 "Eye dominance," using the classic definition, isn't as important as finding your "personal vision center." See: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/dominant-eye/ and: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/vision-center/

[@caseysrodeo14]

@@DrDaveBilliards Appreciate you very much!! Thank you for sharing and passing your knowledge forward!!!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@caseysrodeo14 You're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

[@gerdagregerson]

Excellent video, Dr. Dave! I couldn’t agree more with your assessment-one stance does NOT fit all! On another note, I see that you are now using the extension at the joint to make your cue longer (which makes a lot of sense considering your height and arm length). I’m wondering if you have played around with also using an extension at the butt end of the cue (the kind most players screw on just for hard to reach shots), but players like Jason Shaw and ShaneVB use permanently. I’m interested in hearing about the advantages and disadvantages of a longer cue from a physics point of view, please? Thanks for all you do for pool! Sincerely, Gerda

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Gerda Gregerson Thanks for the comments. Concerning the effects of added length, see the answer to the 2nd question here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/cue/balance/

[@gerdagregerson]

DrDaveBilliards Thanks! 👍🏻

[@wtffilms2012]

Can you make a video on the pros and cons of using a magic rack

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Mike Romano The pros are: if the template and balls are new, you can get a perfect rack every time with very predictable results. The cons are: you get the same tight rack every time, which can be a little too predictable. FYI, I have info and videos related to this topic here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/break/racking/ billiards.colostate.edu/faq/break/9-ball/

[@mustafaansarie]

dont know why but as soon as i get down the butt of the cue is always offline towards left side. i bridge down my body towards the cue and the grip , but some how when i get down my butt of the cue is always always offline how to hold the grip hand on line of aim while standing and until down?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Some of the videos and info here might help: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/advice/ It could help to practice in front of a mirror, going down and up over and over.

[@147academy6]

Im suspecting my head isnt online , is it a good idea to move my head over my right leg as i place my right leg online of aim and holding my head there as i place my left foot? tnx alot u r the best

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@147academy6 You need to find what works best for you as an individual. Working with an experienced instructor would be a big help.

[@ElleChelleSky]

Players better than me told me the other day that my stance was bad, and had me try to bend at the waist with straight legs. I didn’t feel steady like that. I’m 5’10”, so I’m tall, but women also have a different center of gravity. 🤷🏻‍♀️ I typically stand with my back (right) foot on the shot line, my left (front) foot pointing at the shot, but my front (left) knee bent. I tried shooting by facing more forward, with wide, straight legs and bent at the waist. I found that I have to stand slightly sideways in order for it to work, BUT... my chest is out of the way and I have better head alignment over the cue. **So: Do I stand with my legs where I feel stable and balanced, although I can’t get very low, and my right (dominant) eye is over the cue? *Or*: Do I practice the “snooker stance” and learn to balance that way, because it helps me get lower, get my chin over the cue, and get more chest clearance?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The most important thing is that your head is in the right place. For help with this, see the videos and info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/vision-center/ You also need to have clearance to stroke the cue, and you need to be able to hold the stance with stability and relative comfort. Only you (maybe with the help with an in-person instructor) can find the best feet positions and body posture that will let you do that. The other videos and info here might also be helpful: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/advice/ Good luck!

[@lindsaytang1017]

6:20 I imagine I would look at the mirror, start doing it, then die of laughter

[@DrDaveBilliards]

... nothing wrong with a good laugh every once in a while. :)

[@sj460162]

Really helpful video..especially placing your foot outside the shotline for comfort. Im really struggling with my game. You say to keep the face square to shot and level...however im left eye dominant and right handed and ive heard i should be using my left eye more? Would you agree with this?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You should always have your head in your personal "vision center" position, which is not always related to which eye might be dominant or not. For more info, see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/vision-center/

[@sj460162]

@@DrDaveBilliards Thanks for the reply.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@sj460162 You're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

[@hollymoment1704]

Thank you Doctor Dave. This tips will surelly improve me. I wish i could play with you some day. Ps: your studdant

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Mohamed Bilal You’re welcome. Good luck with your game.

[@mustafaansarie]

do you have any video on how to 2:27 stand and then get down! this might fix head movement which might result in losing the line of aim while walking in

[@DrDaveBilliards]

See the videos here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/pre-shot-routine/best-practices/

[@hamdibs589]

is it important that the legs are placed according to the regulations you explained in the video or the legs can be moved for example a little more to the left if it suits me better

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The main point of the video is: You need to find your "personal best stance." Your legs and feet should be wherever works best for you.

[@paramjeetkaur6591]

Does touching the cue with chest improve accuracy or decrease accuracy? It definitely elevates the cue I believe.what do you recommend on this ?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Many snooker players do it. With a low stance, cue elevation is not required.

[@janetairlines1351]

Dave, is it a sign of a good stroke and straight cue action if you can stroke deep inside a beer bottle opening without touching?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I don't like that method because it encourages an elbow-drop "piston stroke" instead of a "pendulum stroke." For more info, see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/pendulum-piston/ billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/elbow-drop/

[@keyboardkevin5949]

Hi Dr. Dave! My pool stance is like yours shown at 5:11 I recently made that change because I've always used a textbook stance when my shoulder and elbow and head are in one plane. But I found that the newer, non-textbook alignment works well for me. But I can't help but feel obligated to follow a textbook stance like i see the pros use. What are your opinions on this? Thanks as always!!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

IMO, your “personal best stance” is always better than a self-inflicted “textbook” stance. Watch the snooker players. Their stance is very different from pro pool players, and they are the most accurate shooters in the world.

[@keyboardkevin5949]

@@DrDaveBilliards one difference is that my shoulder is not aligned with my head unlike pro pool and snooker players--it visible from the front. You mentioned that you can still shoot straight. But you wouldn't say it's a bad habit?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@keyboardkevin5949 My shoulder, and the shoulder of many snooker players, is also off line with the shot. But if your forearm is vertical and your stroke is straight, the should position really doesn’t matter.

[@poolsharkuk5669]

Great videos very helpful for my game and others.I’m quite tall and instead of bending both knees I have a very wide stance instead and stand more like a snooker player where the cue is touching my chest and chin. Is a very wide stance ok or is bending both knees better?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

A wide stance is fine (assuming there is enough room around the table), but I personally prefer the knee bend. It is more comfortable for me.

[@anthonyobermier8191]

Good stuff

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks

[@freddief939]

I am a beginner. I'd like to build up my skills in billiards in the game of 9 and 10 ball. Should I get the DVD series on 9/10 ball or is there a better DVD set for beginners?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Farzin F Purchasing advice can be found here: drdavebilliards.com/products.html#advice I hope you enjoy and benefit from my stuff.

[@fishblade2]

I am starting over with my fundamentals after years of playing. I have fought for a long time finding a comfortable stance that doesn’t cause me to move the shaft along a path that places a slight amount of outside spin. Any recommendations on what to start? I have tried different stances and it helps sometimes and sometimes it doesn’t. It seems like it’s related to how I’m holding the cue with the backhand which I can’t see when down on my shot. Took me forever to even diagnose it since I got center ball but the back hand and body alignment is all set up to stroke straight right some.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

This is the video I recommend for finding your best stance. You might also find the other videos here helpful: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/advice/ Your stroke could also be an issue. Check out the videos and info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/technique/ Good luck!

[@jonchadwick1171]

What I find interesting is the starting position. It appears that the rear leg and foot starts out on the shot line before moving forward to the final position, which is contrary to standing directly behind the shot line with my feet evenly spaced about the shot line. If I have to then move my rear foot to the shot line it will cause my head to probably move too. So do I line up my shot standing to the side of the shot line or do I move my rear foot inwards to get to the shot line. I'm looking to eliminate as many moves as necessary to become more consistent, aren't I ?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Check out my other stance video, showing three ways to get your feet in the right places, while keeping the vision center along the shot line the entire time: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZnLcaoKOo8etqa8 The eyes/head should guide everything.

[@BlackDynamite901]

Often find myself "running out of stick". Don't know why but my hand wants to be really far back on my cue. Finally had some upper players point out my bridge hand is funky. My palm doesn't touch the table, and I'm putting all the weight on my bridge hand fingers. When they had me put my palm on the table it felt so friggin foreign and uncomfortable. I've done things so wrong I think I need to take a break and unlearn /forget some things. Bridge hand crap, stance is crap because I feel myself swaying. Morale is low, I can see the shot, just can't get the ball there consistently.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

If you want help with your fundamentals, lots of good videos and other resources can be found here! billiards.colostate.edu/tutorial/fundamentals/

[@yutuberboy]

any suggestion on a pool stance for a right hand player BUT left eye vision center player. Im having a hard time figuring out a proper stance . My current stance that im comfortable with has the cue under my nose , as i increase the angle of both my feet inward to get the left eye over the cue, i now have to turn my head more sideways which in not comfortable on the neck and worse my 39 inch waist line gets in the way of my grip hand when stroking. Out of frustration i tried switching to be a left hand player. . The stance and aiming is easy nothing gets in the way but the stroke is off does not feel good. I write and play tennis ping pong fire a gun left handed but basketball i can only shoot well with my right hand and it seems with billiards my grip hand seems to be better playing right handed but stance ( to have cue under left eye vision center) is tough .

[@DrDaveBilliards]

My only suggestion is to use all the techniques in this video (especially the "stance dance") that helps you find the best "personal stance" for you that helps you get your head in the right place over the cue. That's why I created this video, to help anyone find their personal best stance on their own. Working with a qualified and experienced instructor could help also.

[@yuli1970]

I get shoulder pain on my stroke arm and my neck, I'm 6'2.8 and I definitely bend down too much from the waist.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Try the knee bend like I do. It really made pool more enjoyable (and better) for me.

[@moritzrutkowski3550]

Hi DrDave. I have a big problem with my stance. I played at a really high level and made a break. After the break I don‘t find my stance again. Do you have an idea how I can find it again? It is kinda weird to know that your stance doesn‘t feel right and you don‘t find your old pool stance again. Hope you can give me some input to figure out, how I become as good as before the break.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'd recommend you work with an experienced and qualified instructor: billiards.colostate.edu/links/instructors/ In lieu of that, you can try the stance dance in front of a mirror (see the 6:04 point in the video).

[@moritzrutkowski3550]

DrDaveBilliards Thank you Dave. Wish you a nice day

[@georgiougeorge9261]

Ευχαριστούμε!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@georgiougeorge9261 Thank you.

[@addictedtonothing23]

Im also tall 6.36 and had shoulder pain and felt uncomfortable or at a disadvantage.. i have a straight snooker stands like Ronnie O sullivan, but it makes me feel uncomfortable on a pool table

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Matimio S I would think the stance could be more comfortable at a pool table since a pool table is slightly higher than a snooker table. What is different for you?

[@kevinbransky1817]

I totally have a snooker stance, without any regard to the layout or the pattern. I guess I'm more of a snooker stance guy hahah, even though I rock at pool.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Kevin Bransky I think a snooker-style stance offers advantages, especially with the chin on the cue, per the info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/low/ And here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/snooker/

[@SpecRec]

I recently adjusted my stance because my forearm was not vertical or in the shot line. Is it normal for my playing to have worsened by a lot? Will it profit in the long-run? I am not sure how important keeping your forearm vertical and in the shot line is.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Any change can cause worse play at first, but a vertical forearm (with a still shoulder and elbow during the stroke into the ball) can definitely help. For more info, see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/advice/ billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/elbow-drop/ billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/technique/

[@relaxandsleepmeditation50]

hi i have problem with my hip weight! i turn my hip alot and i feel like my weight is going abit to right side, i am right eye dominant, and right handed. should the right leg be straight and i sit on right hip? when i turn my hip, i feel like i am not sitting on right hip and my weight is abit to the right. but if i dont turn the hip, i feel like i am sitting abit on right hip. to be honest i think i turn too much my hip but not sure if its true. this is very important for me as my cue butt always goes offline to the left, and i feel like my weight is abit to the right this hip and body weight is messing with my alignment and aiming what is the best method? thank you please reply

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The best method is to do the "stance dance" shown in the video, varying everything as much as possible while down in your stance (with the cue and head in the right places) until you settle into your personal best stance. There is no "best" for everybody. All that matters is that you can stroke straight with the head in the right place. If you want to check your head alignment, see the 1st video and other info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/vision-center/

[@johnhoush4366]

You should be careful about extending your bridge arm and locking your elbow. This will put a lot of stress on your shoulder. Turning the elbow a bit down helps prevent shoulder issues.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Good tip.

[@AJsVIEW]

06:14 me on every shot, and eventually miss lol

[@addictedtonothing23]

Hello Doc, Im 1.94m tall and i have a very sideways stance. My cue is almost parallel to my body.thats how i shoot straight. My ellbow on my bridge arm was always straight , so i had no cue left for a good pendulum stroke. Now im getting used to a wider stance and a bend ellbow. The feeling of the bend ellbow distracts me sometimes when im focusing on potting the ball, but i dont have any neck or knee pain due to the wider stance. No i have a longer back and forward swing which makes me more consistent. Would you recommend me to buy an extension?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad you found something that works.

[@johnnybravo1551]

great video

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks!

[@johnnybravo1551]

@@DrDaveBilliards im in that stage that im trying to go back to rhe basics and this video is very helpful.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@johnnybravo1551 If you want more in that regard, see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/fundamental/

[@johnnybravo1551]

@@DrDaveBilliards already watched most of ur videos, now its the time for me to actually put the work on the table.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@johnnybravo1551 Yep. Pool knowledge and info is not much help unless you practice and incorporate it into your game.

[@jayvenable4279]

Dr. Dave, I have been practicing a lot. I use an open grip. I’m left handed. My right shoulder has started hurting. What am I doing wrong? Jay

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You might be putting too much downward pressure on your bridge hand, with your weight too forward. For more info and help, see the videos here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/advice/exercise/

[@jayvenable4279]

@@DrDaveBilliards I was just thinking of that. Thank you

[@sato4kaiba]

I have the issue of not being able to put my head low enough due the angel of my neck. I am unable to see does the cue when I am in a lower stance. I use a snooker like stance and bridge.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

If you want to get your head lower, try spreading the feet and/or bending the knees as I demonstrate. A low stance offers many advantages per the info here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/low/

[@seiyulyu4854]

Great video, very educational. You seem to have a gift for instruction, Are you like a teacher or professor or something? Hahahahaha

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Seiyul Yu Thanks. I do love to teach; and people who love what they do usually do a decent job.

[@dannyhutcherson5382]

is that a spencer marston table you are shooting on.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Nope. Olhaussen. It was previously owned by the late, great Robert Byrne.

[@navjot4086604]

I stand behind the shot with vision center aligned with aiming line . However, when I walk into the shot with my right leg, the head moves off the aiming line to the left. Is there a way to make sure that the head and vision center fall perfectly on aiming line? Is there any simple way to do this?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

It might help to open you stance some. The other advice in this video might also help. Try everything out, especially the "stance dance." The other videos and info here might also be helpful: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/advice/

[@jacksonblack2776]

I could just imagine doing this chicken dance at a Pool Hall and everyone looking at you like you’ve just gone mad! 😀

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Luckily, you only need to do it once, and not while you are actually playing. You can even do it at home, maybe in front of a bathroom mirror (with a broomstick, if you don't have your own cue).

[@BlackStarEOP]

DrDave, I have a question for my girlfriend, she recently started playing due to me( :D ) and she's plus-sized with assets (length ~165cm), she has a very hard time being horizontal with her eyes over the cue because her body basically gets in the way, this also gives problem with the elbow being vertical, do you have any tips that we may try?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Other than trying the things recommended in this video, I would suggest looking how other females players with large chest do it. Search for "Kelley Fisher pool player" and "Karen Corr pool player."

[@thormarvel4390]

Do they both still work if I am right handed but left eye dominant?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Yes. Although, you should make sure you carefully check your vision center first, using the procedure in the first video here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/eyes/vision-center/ A more open stance might help with the cross-eyed dominance.

[@garysmith2137]

My biggest problem are my glasses. Whenever I try to get my head down close to the cue I'm looking over the glasses and vision is blurred. Will have to concentrate on more knee bend I think?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

More knee bend (or wider feet) would help. It can also help to get your glasses adjusted so they sit closer to your face and higher up on your nose.

[@vmax4steve524]

Buy yourself a spec up or spoony or even a bespoke pair of snooker glasses.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@vmax4steve524 That's a good suggestion, and I have thought about it, but my current glasses seem fine with my low and crouching stance (which is also comfortable).

[@myaccount3402]

Is the tape in a straight line of your vision center of a corner to corner shot ?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

my account Yes. The long tape is along the line of the shot, which is where the cue and “vision center” should be.

[@myaccount3402]

@@DrDaveBilliards thanks for the reply, I'm copying that

[@tecnolinux1469]

Can someone here in the comments help me please , I want to know how the Piston stroke looks because I was reading on a article about it but they didn't show a example and I want to try it, looking around KZbin I find a video but the video description said that it was a poor attempt on the Piston stroke

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Tecno Linux I don’t have a video, but the piston stroke is described in detail here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stroke/pendulum-piston/

[@TheBlueTechnology]

hi i play snooker : i dont do chicken wings but my Grip moves away from chest on impact of chest on delivery and the cue tip goes to the left after the delivery. what is the cause and fix? thank you

[@DrDaveBilliards]

The grip hand hitting the chest can cause it to bounce out a little, but this happens after the CB is long gone, so it really isn’t a problem, assuming the stroke into the ball is straight.

[@TheBlueTechnology]

@@DrDaveBilliards *tnx one more question. i have seen some videos on youtube where the grip hand is not over the right foot ( right hand player)* example: while standing hold the cue straight on line of aim, so that the arm and shoulder are all in straight line with line of aim. at this point the grip hand is close to the right trouser pocket. which means the right foot right not under the grip hand, neither the right foot is on line of aim. so dont move your right left, move left foot wider, and abit forward and get down. it means the right foot is not on line of aim , neither its under the grip hand while standing, not sure what position it will be once down. but most coaches say right foot should be on line of aim......... please explain it to me when you have time. thanx alot for sharing your knowledge for free , tnx

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I don't believe in "shoulds" when it comes to the stance, hence this video. Every person should find their own "personal best stance," regardless of what books, videos, and instructors might claim. For more info, see: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/stance/advice/

[@curtiscarson6939]

Hey Dave I'm an amateur pool player in the market for a table, can you recommend any tables/brands for someone on a buget?

[@jeremiahshields7827]

Look online for a private seller, you can often find nice tables at good deals if you can figure out how to get it out of where it's at to your place because someone has one that's no longer used and is now just in the way. May even be able to get a slightly better deal for having to pay for a team to move it because slate is decievingly heavy and I highly recommend getting it professionally put together and re-felted, very easy to have flaws if you don't know what you're doing. If you need to find someone to felt it ask your local bars who they use.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Sorry, but I don't know much about buying pool tables. I've only purchased a table twice, and both of them were special or personal arrangements.

[@curtiscarson6939]

Thanks guys

[@lindsaytang1017]

@@DrDaveBilliards Dr Dave, is your table a slate 9ftx4.5ft table? I heard you had Simonis 860 cloth on it. What do the TV tables use?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@lindsaytang1017 Yes. My Olhaussen is a standard 9' regulation slate table with Simonis 860HR cloth. Many pro tournaments use Simonis 760, but they are fairly similar.

[@johnholmstrom4212]

Hi Dave. When I get into my stance, which is both comfortable and stable, my heel ends up on the line of the shot, and I like to bend both knees. Is this okay? I've been told that the cue path over the heel is incorrect and needs to be changed.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

If you can stroke straight and consistently with your vision center in the correct place, nothing else matters. You can test your stance and stroke with the drills here: billiards.colostate.edu/faq/drill/stroke/

[@johnholmstrom4212]

@@DrDaveBilliards thank you so much! I'm really consistent and stroke straight like this, but since this more experienced player told me this, I've been feeling uneasy. This comment puts me at ease. Thanks! :)

[@chrisanderson4044]

You are such a goober but your vids are so helpful lol

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you. Dr. Dave ... the "helpful goober." :)

[@purpleknight8017]

So not to sound inappropriate but I'm a woman with large breast and the get in the way of me playing. Any suggestions?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Two approaches: 1.) Close your stance the right amount so the cue is between the breasts. 2.) Open your stance enough so the cue is to the side of the breasts (which also applies to men with large beer bellies).

[@anotherOneMore7]

My issue is I am too tall... I can't really lock my knee(s) and shoot unless I am upright. I need the table to be higher!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm tall also (6'3"), but I can easily and comfortably get my chin on the cue with a wider stance and significant knee bend, as I demonstrate at the end of the video.