Pool tips for beginners

While the aim of the game might seem quite simple, having the correct technique can really help beginners build the confidence they need to take their pool game to the next level. From practising your cue grip and perfecting your stance, to improving your aim and learning the ‘ghost ball’ method, these tips and tricks will help you elevate your game so you can go from a basic beginner to a pool professional.

Practise your grip and hand positioning

The way you grip your cue is the decider for how much control and power you will have with every shot. Your grip can be split into two main components; how you hold the cue, and how you position your ‘bridging’ hand on the table.

To start, you will want to hold your dominant hand at the rear of the stick. Most sticks will usually have a tape or colour differentiation to show where you should place your hand. Ideally, your grip should be 10 to 12 cm back from the marker, and your arm should be at a 90-degree angle with your cue. Keep your grip relaxed and controlled.

Using your other hand, make an open bridge on the table for your cue to sit. There are a few different bridge variations that work better for certain types of hits, but the open bridge is the most common and the one beginners should become comfortable with first.

To master the open bridge:

1. Place your hand on the table approximately 15 to 20 cm with your fingers spread apart.
2. Slide the cue between your middle and index finger knuckles, or between your thumb and index finger.
3. Raise or lower the arch of your hand to adjust the height of the cue tip.

Perfect your stance

The key to the perfect pool stance is relaxation. Try to make sure that none of your joints are locked or hyperextended, and that you are feeling balanced and stable. Start off by standing with your feet shoulder width apart, and step the foot opposite to your cue hand forward. You will want your weight to be distributed equally between both feet. While shooting, keep your feet planted firmly on the ground and in the direction of the shot. 

Learn how to aim properly using the ghost ball method

The ghost ball aiming technique is a great way for beginners to be able to visualise the correct contact point for their cue ball and the object ball. Imagine a cue ball inline with the pocket you are aiming to shoot the object ball. Think about where this imaginary cue ball comes into contact with the object ball. This contact point on the object is the spot you should be aiming to hit with the cue ball. Like any skill, this method will take practice, but it will get you comfortable with understanding where to aim your cue ball.

Practice, practice, practice!

The best way to become a confident pool player is to practise. The more you play, the more scenarios you will experience on the table. You might not always get the ball into the pocket, but you will start to learn the angles and power needed to sink those balls. In time you will learn how to use your judgement and apply your skills in each situation.

Many modern pool tables are designed to be aesthetically pleasing for pool players who want to have access to the game right in their home. A great table for beginners is StarTrek 3 in 1 Pool Table. Select from a variety of colours, and make your new pool table a staple feature in your home. The StartTrek 3 in 1 Pool Table comes in a sleek and stylish design that gives you flexibility to convert your table from a dining table, to a pool table, or a table tennis table within seconds. UXUAN has a fantastic range if you’re looking for the best beginner pool table for sale. Melbourne has a rich pool hall scene, and there is no better way to improve your skills than with a table of your very own. 

If you’re looking to buy a pool table or learn more about our extensive range, call us (03) 9888 9595, or fill out our online contact form, and a member of our team will be in touch!