Knowing how to hold a poolstick is key to being a good player. A pool stick that is not held correctly can have a significant impact on many factors, including the power and accuracy of your shots as well as how often you foul. There are many different ways to hold your pool cue, so you can play around until you find one that works best for you.
It is important to remember that your non-dominant side should be used when holding a pool stick. This hand will help support the stick and allow you to view the white balls. This allows you to be focused on the shot and not distracted by cues. It's a good idea if you place the non-dominant handed 6 inches behind or below the cue.
Remember to not get too tight with your grip. If you do this, the cue can bend which can make a solid shot difficult. Instead, relax your grip and let the weight of your body push the cue forward. This will ensure you get the best out of every shot.
Another important component to remember is the bridge. There are many bridges that you can learn and use. The most popular is the open bridge. A closed bridge is similar to the open bridge but requires you to put your palm on the table rather than the felt.
As you get more proficient, your grip will change and your bridge will adapt to your style. You will not get the perfect shot if your pool stick isn't held correctly.
Playing pool can be fun because you get to experiment with different grips. If you're a beginner, you can start off with a basic grip, and then use that as a stepping stone to the more advanced versions. Be sure to practice frequently so that you are able to balance a cue and pool stick.
In addition to the various grips and bridges, there are a number of other steps involved in properly holding a pool stick. These include bending your back elbow and swiping your index finger over your thumb. You also need to know how to properly place the cue on your chin. You will need to know each step and the steps may vary depending on how tall you are and what your skill level is. Luckily, there are also many video tutorials and other resources online to assist you with this process.
Holding a pool stick correctly is the most important thing. Overdoing it can result in you losing a white pool ball. Don't let your arm hang below the edge of a table.