Thanks a mill Ron. I will follow your instructions to the letter. I've been playing pool for over 51 years, and I'm still learning. I myself I'm also a student of the game. I know for a fact that doing drills are important to further help us develop our game to the next level. Thank for your superb instructions. 😊
Videoing yourself can definitely be an eye opener, I did it quite a bit when I first started getting my stroke down and it helped tremendously. Thanks for reminding me I need to do it some more and take a real close look. I catch myself steering the cue just like you pointed out from time to time.
Thanks Randal, glad I jogged your memory. Btw, here is something I’m starting to use to straighten and smooth out my stroke. A top player friend in my area, has been telling me to start practicing with one hand. He said this will really refine my stroke and when I go back to two hands, it will be a real game changer. I’ll be making future videos of my practice sessions with this new training aid so stay tuned. Here’s a sneak peek. See link below: The Bridge Mate stroke trainer/disabled player aid th-cam.com/video/WfQvWsBjGDk/w-d-xo.html
Ron i want to thank you for tips you gave me on my crooked stroke.I am the guy with the crooked elbow.Your advice was to shoot finesse with spin to maneuver the cue ball make more control shots.I was surprised at the cue ball action i get up and down and around the table.You and John Disque have been a big help.
Thank you Butch, love hearing the update and glad you’re working on finesse shots. This really helped me also as I no longer over-stroke shots. Balls go into pockets more easily as a result. As you continue to shoot with more finesse, you’ll find you’ll be running out more shots in a row. Thanks again and please ask if you have more questions 👍🏻😊👍🏻
Ron, That”s some good thinking and analysis. Little discoveries sometimes open up our game. Here are several related “things” I’ve found … * when I occasionally try to muscle a long draw shot (which is NOT the way to go), I find my shoulder muscles gets involved to help power the cue, which results in the cue swooping in from the top right and then trying to come down the shot line. Putting too much power in the stroke, whether with the shoulder or not, can also cause tighter (automatic) grip grab. (Those spot shots with a rolling cue ball don’t call for much power.) * I’ve found that the length of the backstroke “loads the power” into each stroke gear. Your spot shots at start of video seem unbalanced (I.e., short backstroke but then more force sending cue forward.). Perhaps a bit longer backstroke will reduce the “push” power that results in off line send. * One of the biggest stroke discoveries I’ve had in the last year was from watching Jason Shaw’s straight pool work, perhaps very basic but an eye opener for me. He needed a short, soft draw shot but used a longish, maybe 10-12 inch backstroke … then delivered it very softly. I had no idea that we could get a small, smoothly controlled draw effect with such a long backstroke load. . * The net of all the above is that (I believe) by using a somewhat longer, smoother backstroke we can add power to the cue ball travel, without unintentionally putting more force than is necessary (and risking off-line stroke Thru.) BTW: Your videos show how smooth your shot routine is, especially keeping your body and cue stick VERY STILL [!] well after the stroke. Great model to follow!
Thank you Michael for this great advice. Veering during my power draw stroke especially has been my achilles’ heel. I’ve known I have mechanical issues for some time now so I tend to avoid these shots when they come up. This being said, I need to focus on this now as the rest of my game has passed up this weakness. Your insight makes great sense and I really do appreciate it. I’ll be figuring out a way to change this and will take what you’ve said here to heart. Thank you again Michael 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻❤️🎱
I think my stroke is pretty good because I'm a fairly good player. However, I know it fails me at times. When I miss, it isn't because I didn't know where to aim. It's because my stroke failed me. One of the first things I'll do when I get my table is record myself from different angles and really see what I'm doing.
Yes, same here. There are times I shoot 650+ but the consistency isn’t there. I was shocked to see how bad I stroked that shot in the video, now I just need to engrain better muscle memory which takes tons of hours of shooting correctly.
Thanks P Stan, I was just about to mess around with my wrist cup also. I actually made a video on this some months ago but haven’t stuck with cupping my wrist inward like I should as of late. Thanks for that heads up Sir 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
With an open bridge It’s hard to control the tip/shaft with left or right due to deflection it want to deflect in that direction. With a closed bridge it’s less noticeable. When hitting with open bridge with right the tip & shaft deflect to the right. Opposite with putting left on. Less with close bridge but still happens. Of course speed of shots increase the amount of deflection. You’re doing good. Cheers
Wow, I hadn’t seen this video for awhile Tom. Boy did I suck back then lol. My stroke is 100% better today for sure. It’s always good to video and watch one’s self. I’ve made a ton of tweaks based on what I’ve seen while editing content. It seems like a long time ago when I watch videos such as this. So true on the bridge situation as you have pointed out too 👍🏻
Yes Jim, there’s definitely an issue with my wrist moving when I torque a shot too. I’m going to include this in my upcoming video along with one other issue I’ve found. Thanks for sharing JD 👍🏻
Been veering off for years. I seem to have a cross-over stroke and I try to slow down my stroke and be conscious as to when it starts. Its like almost midway through my follow through, so I try and bare a little to my right just slightly to straighten it out. Thanks for the video Ron.
I found the issue Richard. Since going to the super loose grip, the veering stopped. The only way it does it now, is if I move my hand away from my body after the hit. The tighter grip was making the issue happen.
I’m worried to be truthful. I may have met my match on this one. The chicken wing along with my wrist moving throughout my forward motion on stressful shots is how I’ve always executed.
@@ronthepoolstudent It's not easy Ron. It took me 6 months of 3hr/day stroke training, only shooting straight in shots to finally come to grips with what stroke worked for me. I was lucky it was lockdown and I had time. I'm not saying you need to do the same thing. But I am saying it's not easy, but that's gonna make you a much better player. As for the mechanics themselves. Everyone has different opinions on what is going to work for them, and that's fine because by and large, everyone feels mechanics "naturally" differently. For me; I used to be a "no elbow drop" guy. It made no sense to me- til I decided to at least learn it and see if it made a difference in my stroke, and boy did it. I'd argue the slip stroke (stroke slip-throwing the cue) was more impactful for me in the end, and I learned that before the elbow drop. I realized, if I didn't drop my elbow, I'd literally be letting the cue fall onto the table or floor, cause the cue was coming out of my hands so much, and decelerating because of the fear of that. How I think of it now is, the elbow drop is a result of letting a SUPPLE WRIST be "dragged" along the shotline, following the cue. Learning how to work on these things together, and blend them into my own style of stroke that felt natural took most of that time during lockdown stroke training. My only suggestion is to try MANY things. Work on every style of stroke til you can sort of do it, and try to see what works and feels natural. Often, people attribute what they do "first" as whats "natural" to them, but if they haven't actually experienced every possible way to execute an action, then they'll never know if it was truly natural or the best path for them.
@@SenseiNatePlaysPool thank you Nate, your words are wise my friend. Also, I very much appreciate your thoughtful articulation. I have changed only two things within my fundamentals since I started 506 days ago. I’ve since come to realize there is way more to do. It appears I need to step back to really figure a path forward. Continuing the way I am will only take me to 525 Pool. Once again, thanks for taking the time (as you always have) to give me your insight NT 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Love your analytical style. If I may suggest something. Try focusing on finishing the shot with your cue tip touching the cloth. The only way to do that is to not drop your elbow, not even a tiny bit. This will make it effortless to strike and follow through the cue ball perfectly straight.
Thanks Bob, I appreciate your compliment and advice. I hear exactly what you’re saying and I need to stay focused on my shots when it comes to elbow drop and the tip finishing on the cloth. I seem to have more trouble with this when I’m using straight top or TR/TL, I have a tendency to help the stroke which is away from the cue ball if that makes any sense. In viewing my shots on this video, I was shocked at how much I moved my cue. (body english) I recorded the entire session and had to throw out the majority as it was so ugly and embarrassing to show on YT 🤷🏻♂️ I have a long way to go so thanks again for the help 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Sortstop, l am also six four and use a sixty two inch cue. My grip hand is sometimes two fingers overthe rear of the stick when shooting.My bridge is always eight to ten inches.Do you think l need a longer cue?Do you think a longer cue would help me pocket more balls because of a different balance point? Your advice would be much appreciated. l know you have helped me with my alighnment in the past. Thankyou!
@@jamescathcart4762 I do think you need a longer cue. I played with a 62" cue for many years and I believe it hurt my game. I suggest a 4" extension for a 66" cue. Plus shorten your bridge to 5" to 7". Its not about the balance point, its about getting your shooting arm at or just behind 90 degrees and playing at the bottom of the pendulum. Good luck!
@@ShortstopOnPool l am glad to say my cue is 66''. lt will weigh almost 22 0z. Get to try it tomorrow! My question is l will have aprox. four additional inches on the rear of the cue. How does having a little length at the back of the cue heip? Just curious, because thats over my pay scale. Thankyou for the response and also showing us tall guys that maybe we can become a shortstop one day.
Yes Jim, have that corrected for the most part now. I will still do this on occasion but typically after the cue ball leaves 👍🏻 Pretty old video since I’ve only been playing 837 days lol
It would contain it but we still need to grip more lightly for relaxed control. I like using an open bridge too because it’s easier to line up on the shot line. I’m glad I was using the open bridge so I could spot this issue. It’s crazy how bad this stroke really was, I know better.
Years ago Earl Strickland was wearing a glove on each hand. People thought he was crazy. When asked he said he didn't want to feel the cue anymore. But what people didn't realize he was having an issue vering off line. He was only focusing on his back arm. It's a little extreme but for him it was worth it. All the quote on quote crazy things Earl uses . They are all to help him work with whatever issues hes having
@@ronthepoolstudent I know people always talk smack about Earl but if you ever actually talk with him and get to be around him. He's a great person. He has his demons but is a super talented player. One of the smartest to ever hold a cue. And his ability is out of this world. Always going to be one of my favorite players. It's just amazing how long he's been doing it. He's had ups and downs. Some health issues, but he's always given it his heart and soul. Ya the weights have to do with his age and the issues that have come with it. But what a talent
Ron, go to Niels Feijen’s you tube, he puts scotch tape on a cue which immediately lets you know when you’re steering the cue. It will help a lot on side movement as well, immediate feedback!
i was born with rickets my arm is bent a little in the elbow could that affect my stroke,maybe i should copy allen hokpins stroke i got alot of age on me but i sure would like to be better at the game i love before i check out you seem to be able to solve a lot of problems help me if you can thanks
Thanks Butch. Your condition will have to be taken into account. I would say to NOT over-stroke your shots but rather use spin with finesse to maneuver the cue ball. This will help with not only cue ball control, it will also help with your shotmaking. Hope this helps and please let me know in a follow up comment. 👍🏻❤️🎱
Rn, dont be alarmed. You will work through this just like everything else you have in pool life. Nothing but a bump in the road. You know, it is kind of strange that most people at the pool room dont want to talk fundlementals ect... with me. Either they think its a big secret or they just not very bright. l mean its like they think they are going to hell if they even talk about alighnment, stroke or misses. Have you ever experienced this?
Thank you James for your words of encouragement ❤️ After viewing the shots I made during this video, I truly felt sick about how ugly my stroke looked. My stroke fundamentals are suffering because I have so many bad habits. Because of this, it’s why I’m inconsistent. I have so so so much work to do 🤷🏻♂️ As for the other players talking fundamentals, yes, very rare. It’s only those that I play against (frequently) that share anything about their findings. Thanks again JC 👍🏻👍🏻
This is common to many Pool players FR. I too had that same issue. Here is a great way to understand your aim/stroke. (an older video of mine) Please take the time to try this, I bet you’ll pick up on what it is that’s going on. Keep me posted with the outcome too. Thank you for your comment and I’m looking forward to hearing back from you. See link below: Troubleshooting your Pool stroke/a systematic approach th-cam.com/video/inJqZLXKUNs/w-d-xo.html
Here’s something else I just thought about FR. Maybe this will also help. See link below: Finding vision center/please also see link in the description th-cam.com/users/shorts4Fg4Zo_L9Yg?feature=share
Hey Ron, Detroit is a ways from Grand Rapids, but who would you recommend as a teacher coach...anywhere from where you are at to where I am at? I feel I need rebuild my foundation, because I'm missing too many straight in shots.
@@jimlinton3679 Yes, but how far is Bay City from Detroit? Is it comparable to the distance of Detroit to Grand Rapids? I can check Greyhound for the cost of visiting Bay city but yes, I am interested in learning from a coach. Tell me more? Or would you like to go private about our conversation?
It’s pretty common if you watch other players Eddie. Grip pressure is a big problem for so many. Btw, I’ve gotten past that era as that seems so long ago now.
Might help to have the camera right down the shot line and to us nothing but center ball. If you accidentally use a little right or left english the cue tip is going to veer of in that direction. keep in mind a low deflection shaft does NOT want to deflect the cue ball so the tip must deflect. It would be fun to see you do this with a normal shaft and compare. My real point being you may not be steering as much as reacting to the force being put on the cue from the cue ball.
@@ronthepoolstudent What up Mark? J.D. ok? No videos brother. Oh by the way you are a much stronger player than l am. l remember you once said you thought your pool cue was out of alinement. l know l spelled it wrong. anyway l found out when my head alinement was wrong my shot line was off. l snapped a chalk line from pocket to pocket. corner to corner. Thought my stick was at a angle. found out it was my head over the cue. Still struggleing.
@@jamescathcart4762 hi James, I know this was meant for Mark but I too was wondering about John. Keep me posted if you would, that’s not like him to not publish content for two weeks 🤷🏻♂️ Thanks, Ron
@@ronthepoolstudent And l thought l was the only one that has strange hours! Are there days when you are missing the same way. Then some days you hardly ever miss?
Personally I'd have you focus on just the object ball after you address the cue. After your down and addressing the cue ball there's nothing positive you can change so why even concern yourself with it. Your target is all that matters. I want you to focus on sending your tip to the target point. Now you're stroke won't existent enough to do this but it will keep you following straight thru. Plus it will help relieve some nerves. I don't believe most people can be down in their stance practice stroking and checking aim for much more than two or three practice strokes. This should be done before you get down on the shot. So my advise is once you're down only look at contact point on object ball and stroke at it like it's a hanger. Confidence goes a long way in being successful in pool
@@ronthepoolstudent ya and how I play into dead stroke is I don't think when down on the ball. As I'm standing on the shot line before I get down I practice stroke and just try to feel what I need to do. I will think about it but I'm trying to turn my conscious mind off
@@jasonsanders9054 I shot very well night before last which was before this video. I tried to stay smooth but I know I wasn’t all the time. It’s such a crazy game.
Your shoulder is not lined up behind your head. A lot of people that play pool think with their grip alignment instead of their shoulder alignment. If your grip is on the line but your shoulder is outside the line it's inevitable that a right hander will shoot right to left...because of non-vertical alignment. Here's Barton snooker. He explains why it happens. th-cam.com/video/1m1Xv-DX7z8/w-d-xo.html The lead shoulder has to swing over enough for the back shoulder to get behind the head. They work together in the turn. The non-cueing arm doesn't swing over from the arm it swings over from the shoulder. th-cam.com/users/results?search_query=snooker+shoulder+leads+the+move
Here is an interesting video on how irrelevant stance is when it comes to the cue line. Throughout all 36 shots his cue shoulder is behind the head and in line with the elbow, grip, head, and bridge. I find all I have to do is draw the cue back as the lead shoulder extends close to the aim line (not on it). This automatically rotates the hips. I tried his goofy stances just to see if he was right. It's true. The shoulder alignment is the key component...not the stance. The stance is about comfort and stability...not aim. In fact I shot very accurately out of a fully straddled stance with my cue arm leg way across the aim line. th-cam.com/video/k-5hm8YDX24/w-d-xo.html I have a bad back also. It's not even a strain to line up. I just bring the cue over to the line of the shot and extend the lead shoulder while drawing the cue arm back. Works like a charm. Perfect alignment.
@@xdecemberguy1 gotcha. With respect, let me say this XDG. If you actually think players such as Efren are not stroking straight, think again my friend. Watch the Asian open matches with Efren sometime. There are many aerial overhead cam views of him. Note his upper arm position and his forward cuing action. I have worked on this arm position for almost three years now and it’s incredibly repeatable. As someone that is nearly the same age as Efren, I like how his stroke mechanics hold up for us older players.
@@xdecemberguy1 through the sweet spot, his cue is spot on, what happens before of after, is irrelevant. When I made this video, I always had a tendency to veer my cue after stroking through the cue ball. This did not hurt my shotmaking but it could have. If I started the veering prior to impact, this would be a major problem. This said, I know players that actually have this issue. Stopping it entirely would be the best solution. Hence, that’s why I’m highlighting here, in this video.
Thanks a mill Ron. I will follow your instructions to the letter. I've been playing pool for over 51 years, and I'm still learning. I myself I'm also a student of the game. I know for a fact that doing drills are important to further help us develop our game to the next level. Thank for your superb instructions. 😊
Thank you Carlos, we are always learning. Let’s get better together.
👍🏻💪🏻
Videoing yourself can definitely be an eye opener, I did it quite a bit when I first started getting my stroke down and it helped tremendously. Thanks for reminding me I need to do it some more and take a real close look. I catch myself steering the cue just like you pointed out from time to time.
Thanks Randal, glad I jogged your memory.
Btw, here is something I’m starting to use to straighten and smooth out my stroke. A top player friend in my area, has been telling me to start practicing with one hand. He said this will really refine my stroke and when I go back to two hands, it will be a real game changer.
I’ll be making future videos of my practice sessions with this new training aid so stay tuned.
Here’s a sneak peek.
See link below:
The Bridge Mate stroke trainer/disabled player aid
th-cam.com/video/WfQvWsBjGDk/w-d-xo.html
Ron, thank you kindly for sharing your pool knowledge with all of us. For making our own games better and better.
Thank you Carlos 👋
Ron i want to thank you for tips you gave me on my crooked stroke.I am the guy with the crooked elbow.Your advice was to shoot finesse with spin to maneuver the cue ball make more control shots.I was surprised at the cue ball action i get up and down and around the table.You and John Disque have been a big help.
Thank you Butch, love hearing the update and glad you’re working on finesse shots. This really helped me also as I no longer over-stroke shots. Balls go into pockets more easily as a result. As you continue to shoot with more finesse, you’ll find you’ll be running out more shots in a row.
Thanks again and please ask if you have more questions 👍🏻😊👍🏻
Ron, That”s some good thinking and analysis. Little discoveries sometimes open up our game. Here are several related “things” I’ve found …
* when I occasionally try to muscle a long draw shot (which is NOT the way to go), I find my shoulder muscles gets involved to help power the cue, which results in the cue swooping in from the top right and then trying to come down the shot line. Putting too much power in the stroke, whether with the shoulder or not, can also cause tighter (automatic) grip grab. (Those spot shots with a rolling cue ball don’t call for much power.)
* I’ve found that the length of the backstroke “loads the power” into each stroke gear. Your spot shots at start of video seem unbalanced (I.e., short backstroke but then more force sending cue forward.). Perhaps a bit longer backstroke will reduce the “push” power that results in off line send.
* One of the biggest stroke discoveries I’ve had in the last year was from watching Jason Shaw’s straight pool work, perhaps very basic but an eye opener for me. He needed a short, soft draw shot but used a longish, maybe 10-12 inch backstroke … then delivered it very softly. I had no idea that we could get a small, smoothly controlled draw effect with such a long backstroke load. .
* The net of all the above is that (I believe) by using a somewhat longer, smoother backstroke we can add power to the cue ball travel, without unintentionally putting more force than is necessary (and risking off-line stroke Thru.)
BTW: Your videos show how smooth your shot routine is, especially keeping your body and cue stick VERY STILL [!] well after the stroke. Great model to follow!
Thank you Michael for this great advice.
Veering during my power draw stroke especially has been my achilles’ heel.
I’ve known I have mechanical issues for some time now so I tend to avoid these shots when they come up. This being said, I need to focus on this now as the rest of my game has passed up this weakness.
Your insight makes great sense and I really do appreciate it. I’ll be figuring out a way to change this and will take what you’ve said here to heart.
Thank you again Michael 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻❤️🎱
Ron great videos. When I line up straight shots for practice I use a carpenters laser level it makes setting up paper reinforcement perfect in line.
Thank you Sam.
Great idea with the laser also 👍🏻
I like to know what are the real drills we should be doing in billiards to improve our game? We simply have too many of them
The Mighty X, Spot to Spot, Four ball rotation and the Nick Varner 9 ball drill Carlos.
I think my stroke is pretty good because I'm a fairly good player. However, I know it fails me at times. When I miss, it isn't because I didn't know where to aim. It's because my stroke failed me. One of the first things I'll do when I get my table is record myself from different angles and really see what I'm doing.
Yes, same here. There are times I shoot 650+ but the consistency isn’t there. I was shocked to see how bad I stroked that shot in the video, now I just need to engrain better muscle memory which takes tons of hours of shooting correctly.
Very observant! I have noticed that i have a slight tremble in my back hand. Curling my back hand just slightly stops it! I like your videos!
Thanks P Stan, I was just about to mess around with my wrist cup also. I actually made a video on this some months ago but haven’t stuck with cupping my wrist inward like I should as of late. Thanks for that heads up Sir 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
With an open bridge It’s hard to control the tip/shaft with left or right due to deflection it want to deflect in that direction. With a closed bridge it’s less noticeable. When hitting with open bridge with right the tip & shaft deflect to the right. Opposite with putting left on. Less with close bridge but still happens. Of course speed of shots increase the amount of deflection. You’re doing good. Cheers
Wow, I hadn’t seen this video for awhile Tom. Boy did I suck back then lol.
My stroke is 100% better today for sure.
It’s always good to video and watch one’s self.
I’ve made a ton of tweaks based on what I’ve seen while editing content. It seems like a long time ago when I watch videos such as this.
So true on the bridge situation as you have pointed out too 👍🏻
I didn’t look how old the video was and I know you only been play a few years but like I said you’re doing good! Cheers
@@tomburns890 it’s been awhile. It’s now been 621 since I published that video out of the 1,126 total days of playing 😊
Lots of work on a daily basis.
I had/have a similar issue. In my case I found that I curl my wrist inward a bit which results in the same issue. Thanks for sharing.
Yes Jim, there’s definitely an issue with my wrist moving when I torque a shot too.
I’m going to include this in my upcoming video along with one other issue I’ve found.
Thanks for sharing JD 👍🏻
Been veering off for years. I seem to have a cross-over stroke and I try to slow down my stroke and be conscious as to when it starts. Its like almost midway through my follow through, so I try and bare a little to my right just slightly to straighten it out. Thanks for the video Ron.
I found the issue Richard. Since going to the super loose grip, the veering stopped. The only way it does it now, is if I move my hand away from my body after the hit. The tighter grip was making the issue happen.
Curious to see what approaches you have to fixing these issue. Keep going brotha.
I’m worried to be truthful.
I may have met my match on this one. The chicken wing along with my wrist moving throughout my forward motion on stressful shots is how I’ve always executed.
@@ronthepoolstudent It's not easy Ron. It took me 6 months of 3hr/day stroke training, only shooting straight in shots to finally come to grips with what stroke worked for me. I was lucky it was lockdown and I had time.
I'm not saying you need to do the same thing. But I am saying it's not easy, but that's gonna make you a much better player.
As for the mechanics themselves. Everyone has different opinions on what is going to work for them, and that's fine because by and large, everyone feels mechanics "naturally" differently. For me; I used to be a "no elbow drop" guy. It made no sense to me- til I decided to at least learn it and see if it made a difference in my stroke, and boy did it. I'd argue the slip stroke (stroke slip-throwing the cue) was more impactful for me in the end, and I learned that before the elbow drop. I realized, if I didn't drop my elbow, I'd literally be letting the cue fall onto the table or floor, cause the cue was coming out of my hands so much, and decelerating because of the fear of that. How I think of it now is, the elbow drop is a result of letting a SUPPLE WRIST be "dragged" along the shotline, following the cue. Learning how to work on these things together, and blend them into my own style of stroke that felt natural took most of that time during lockdown stroke training.
My only suggestion is to try MANY things. Work on every style of stroke til you can sort of do it, and try to see what works and feels natural. Often, people attribute what they do "first" as whats "natural" to them, but if they haven't actually experienced every possible way to execute an action, then they'll never know if it was truly natural or the best path for them.
@@SenseiNatePlaysPool thank you Nate, your words are wise my friend.
Also, I very much appreciate your thoughtful articulation.
I have changed only two things within my fundamentals since I started 506 days ago. I’ve since come to realize there is way more to do. It appears I need to step back to really figure a path forward. Continuing the way I am will only take me to 525 Pool.
Once again, thanks for taking the time (as you always have) to give me your insight NT 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
@@ronthepoolstudent it’s always good to get perspective. Thanks for the kinds words. Keep at it my dude.
Love your analytical style. If I may suggest something. Try focusing on finishing the shot with your cue tip touching the cloth. The only way to do that is to not drop your elbow, not even a tiny bit. This will make it effortless to strike and follow through the cue ball perfectly straight.
Thanks Bob, I appreciate your compliment and advice.
I hear exactly what you’re saying and I need to stay focused on my shots when it comes to elbow drop and the tip finishing on the cloth.
I seem to have more trouble with this when I’m using straight top or TR/TL, I have a tendency to help the stroke which is away from the cue ball if that makes any sense.
In viewing my shots on this video, I was shocked at how much I moved my cue. (body english)
I recorded the entire session and had to throw out the majority as it was so ugly and embarrassing to show on YT 🤷🏻♂️
I have a long way to go so thanks again for the help 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Sortstop, l am also six four and use a sixty two inch cue. My grip hand is sometimes two fingers overthe rear of the stick when shooting.My bridge is always eight to ten inches.Do you think l need a longer cue?Do you think a longer cue would help me pocket more balls because of a different balance point? Your advice would be much appreciated. l know you have helped me with my alighnment in the past. Thankyou!
@@jamescathcart4762 I do think you need a longer cue. I played with a 62" cue for many years and I believe it hurt my game. I suggest a 4" extension for a 66" cue. Plus shorten your bridge to 5" to 7". Its not about the balance point, its about getting your shooting arm at or just behind 90 degrees and playing at the bottom of the pendulum. Good luck!
@@ShortstopOnPool l am glad to say my cue is 66''. lt will weigh almost 22 0z. Get to try it tomorrow! My question is l will have aprox. four additional inches on the rear of the cue. How does having a little length at the back of the cue heip? Just curious, because thats over my pay scale. Thankyou for the response and also showing us tall guys that maybe we can become a shortstop one day.
watching yourself on tape is the best coach you could have
Absolutely Brett, it reveals how bad our fundamentals can be at times. It makes me want to work even harder which I’m doing right now. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Ron,
great video, question!
What are you using to record yourself? thanks for the info
Thanks Jarret. I’m using two GoPro Hero Black 9s.
I see your right hand moving to the right ,thus the tip goes left
Yes Jim, have that corrected for the most part now. I will still do this on occasion but typically after the cue ball leaves 👍🏻
Pretty old video since I’ve only been playing 837 days lol
would a closed bridge stop a lot of that ?
It would contain it but we still need to grip more lightly for relaxed control.
I like using an open bridge too because it’s easier to line up on the shot line. I’m glad I was using the open bridge so I could spot this issue. It’s crazy how bad this stroke really was, I know better.
Years ago Earl Strickland was wearing a glove on each hand. People thought he was crazy. When asked he said he didn't want to feel the cue anymore. But what people didn't realize he was having an issue vering off line. He was only focusing on his back arm. It's a little extreme but for him it was worth it. All the quote on quote crazy things Earl uses . They are all to help him work with whatever issues hes having
Yes, he’s also is fighting tremors which is why the weights.
@@ronthepoolstudent I know people always talk smack about Earl but if you ever actually talk with him and get to be around him. He's a great person. He has his demons but is a super talented player. One of the smartest to ever hold a cue. And his ability is out of this world. Always going to be one of my favorite players. It's just amazing how long he's been doing it. He's had ups and downs. Some health issues, but he's always given it his heart and soul. Ya the weights have to do with his age and the issues that have come with it. But what a talent
@@jasonsanders9054 amen to that 👍🏻
@@jasonsanders9054hes very nice. He was in my area this summer. I have vids of him on my page
Ron, go to Niels Feijen’s you tube, he puts scotch tape on a cue which immediately lets you know when you’re steering the cue. It will help a lot on side movement as well, immediate feedback!
I did see his video but haven’t tried it curly.
Sounds like it’s about time for that move.
Thanks for the reminder 👍🏻
i was born with rickets my arm is bent a little in the elbow could that affect my stroke,maybe i should copy allen hokpins stroke i got alot of age on me but i sure would like to be better at the game i love before i check out you seem to be able to solve a lot of problems help me if you can thanks
Thanks Butch. Your condition will have to be taken into account.
I would say to NOT over-stroke your shots but rather use spin with finesse to maneuver the cue ball. This will help with not only cue ball control, it will also help with your shotmaking.
Hope this helps and please let me know in a follow up comment.
👍🏻❤️🎱
Rn, dont be alarmed. You will work through this just like everything else you have in pool life. Nothing but a bump in the road. You know, it is kind of strange that most people at the pool room dont want to talk fundlementals ect... with me. Either they think its a big secret or they just not very bright. l mean its like they think they are going to hell if they even talk about alighnment, stroke or misses. Have you ever experienced this?
Thank you James for your words of encouragement ❤️
After viewing the shots I made during this video, I truly felt sick about how ugly my stroke looked.
My stroke fundamentals are suffering because I have so many bad habits. Because of this, it’s why I’m inconsistent. I have so so so much work to do 🤷🏻♂️
As for the other players talking fundamentals, yes, very rare.
It’s only those that I play against (frequently) that share anything about their findings.
Thanks again JC 👍🏻👍🏻
When I miss, I miss probably 90% of the time to the right side. I don't know if Im veering or I'm too right eye dominant..if that's possible
This is common to many Pool players FR. I too had that same issue.
Here is a great way to understand your aim/stroke. (an older video of mine)
Please take the time to try this, I bet you’ll pick up on what it is that’s going on.
Keep me posted with the outcome too.
Thank you for your comment and I’m looking forward to hearing back from you.
See link below:
Troubleshooting your Pool stroke/a systematic approach
th-cam.com/video/inJqZLXKUNs/w-d-xo.html
@@ronthepoolstudent really appreciate it.. I'll give it a try, and subscribe
@@FloridaRaider thanks, I appreciate the support FR. Please feel free to ask questions at anytime and I’ll be happy to help if I can 👍🏻😊
Here’s something else I just thought about FR. Maybe this will also help.
See link below:
Finding vision center/please also see link in the description
th-cam.com/users/shorts4Fg4Zo_L9Yg?feature=share
Hey Ron, Detroit is a ways from Grand Rapids, but who would you recommend as a teacher coach...anywhere from where you are at to where I am at? I feel I need rebuild my foundation, because I'm missing too many straight in shots.
I have a friend in Bay City that’s a good player. I’m not sure if he would be interested in helping you out but I’ll check.
Stay tuned.
He said sure, his name is Jim and he’ll be reaching out here on this thread.
Hi Robert, my name is James Linton . Ron told me to get ahold of you.
@@jimlinton3679 Yes, but how far is Bay City from Detroit? Is it comparable to the distance of Detroit to Grand Rapids? I can check Greyhound for the cost of visiting Bay city but yes, I am interested in learning from a coach. Tell me more? Or would you like to go private about our conversation?
@@RobertSpiller 1:20 mins
At least you're making them
It’s pretty common if you watch other players Eddie. Grip pressure is a big problem for so many.
Btw, I’ve gotten past that era as that seems so long ago now.
Can you show just what you use to video your shots?
Here ya go Matt, see link below:
th-cam.com/video/O-izMx5H3Eg/w-d-xo.html
Did you get my link Matt?
I thought I would take you on a walk through of my setup. Thanks!
@@ronthepoolstudent Yes thank you Ron.
@@mattwernekerealestate7637 cool, you’re welcome 👍🏻
Might help to have the camera right down the shot line and to us nothing but center ball. If you accidentally use a little right or left english the cue tip is going to veer of in that direction. keep in mind a low deflection shaft does NOT want to deflect the cue ball so the tip must deflect. It would be fun to see you do this with a normal shaft and compare. My real point being you may not be steering as much as reacting to the force being put on the cue from the cue ball.
Makes sense 👍🏻
@@ronthepoolstudent What up Mark? J.D. ok? No videos brother. Oh by the way you are a much stronger player than l am. l remember you once said you thought your pool cue was out of alinement. l know l spelled it wrong. anyway l found out when my head alinement was wrong my shot line was off. l snapped a chalk line from pocket to pocket. corner to corner. Thought my stick was at a angle. found out it was my head over the cue. Still struggleing.
@@jamescathcart4762 hi James, I know this was meant for Mark but I too was wondering about John. Keep me posted if you would, that’s not like him to not publish content for two weeks 🤷🏻♂️
Thanks, Ron
@@ronthepoolstudent Shame on you you old geeze! l feel like your y home boy from back in the day. Thanks for the shout out my brother!
@@ronthepoolstudent And l thought l was the only one that has strange hours! Are there days when you are missing the same way. Then some days you hardly ever miss?
Personally I'd have you focus on just the object ball after you address the cue. After your down and addressing the cue ball there's nothing positive you can change so why even concern yourself with it. Your target is all that matters. I want you to focus on sending your tip to the target point. Now you're stroke won't existent enough to do this but it will keep you following straight thru. Plus it will help relieve some nerves. I don't believe most people can be down in their stance practice stroking and checking aim for much more than two or three practice strokes. This should be done before you get down on the shot. So my advise is once you're down only look at contact point on object ball and stroke at it like it's a hanger. Confidence goes a long way in being successful in pool
When I hit dead stroke next time, I’m going to break out the camera once again. I don’t even think when I’m there. 🤷🏻♂️
Thanks Jason 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
@@ronthepoolstudent ya and how I play into dead stroke is I don't think when down on the ball. As I'm standing on the shot line before I get down I practice stroke and just try to feel what I need to do. I will think about it but I'm trying to turn my conscious mind off
@@jasonsanders9054 I shot very well night before last which was before this video. I tried to stay smooth but I know I wasn’t all the time. It’s such a crazy game.
Your shoulder is not lined up behind your head. A lot of people that play pool think with their grip alignment instead of their shoulder alignment. If your grip is on the line but your shoulder is outside the line it's inevitable that a right hander will shoot right to left...because of non-vertical alignment.
Here's Barton snooker. He explains why it happens.
th-cam.com/video/1m1Xv-DX7z8/w-d-xo.html
The lead shoulder has to swing over enough for the back shoulder to get behind the head. They work together in the turn. The non-cueing arm doesn't swing over from the arm it swings over from the shoulder.
th-cam.com/users/results?search_query=snooker+shoulder+leads+the+move
@@robertsutherland2338 yes, I had a downhill skiing injury early in life. Thank you Robert.
Here is an interesting video on how irrelevant stance is when it comes to the cue line. Throughout all 36 shots his cue shoulder is behind the head and in line with the elbow, grip, head, and bridge. I find all I have to do is draw the cue back as the lead shoulder extends close to the aim line (not on it). This automatically rotates the hips. I tried his goofy stances just to see if he was right. It's true. The shoulder alignment is the key component...not the stance. The stance is about comfort and stability...not aim. In fact I shot very accurately out of a fully straddled stance with my cue arm leg way across the aim line. th-cam.com/video/k-5hm8YDX24/w-d-xo.html I have a bad back also. It's not even a strain to line up. I just bring the cue over to the line of the shot and extend the lead shoulder while drawing the cue arm back. Works like a charm. Perfect alignment.
I don't know..a lot of old school professionals do that..efren included...sooo
Point?
@@ronthepoolstudent Point being it's really not that bad if professionals are doing it...
@@xdecemberguy1 gotcha.
With respect, let me say this XDG. If you actually think players such as Efren are not stroking straight, think again my friend.
Watch the Asian open matches with Efren sometime. There are many aerial overhead cam views of him. Note his upper arm position and his forward cuing action.
I have worked on this arm position for almost three years now and it’s incredibly repeatable.
As someone that is nearly the same age as Efren, I like how his stroke mechanics hold up for us older players.
@@ronthepoolstudent Didn't say he didn't stroke straight but he does lift the tip of his cue up quite a bit
@@xdecemberguy1 through the sweet spot, his cue is spot on, what happens before of after, is irrelevant.
When I made this video, I always had a tendency to veer my cue after stroking through the cue ball. This did not hurt my shotmaking but it could have. If I started the veering prior to impact, this would be a major problem. This said, I know players that actually have this issue. Stopping it entirely would be the best solution. Hence, that’s why I’m highlighting here, in this video.
Can I get a sticker off you. For my cue case ❤
Good idea, I should have some stickers made up. Thanks for that question/idea T 👍🏻
Uno!
👍🏻
It’s called deflection.
Thanks 👍🏻