You've seen it in the movies — the new girl in town hussles the men in a barroom pool game and catches the eye of the resident "bad boy." Yes, it's a cliché, but a mean pool game really will help your street cred at the local dive bar.
Nothing says "novice" like bad form. If you are right-handed, you want the back of the cue in your right hand. To figure out where your dominant hand should grip, first find the cue's reference point by trying to balance the cue on your index finger. The point where it teeters on its own is the reference point. Your dominant hand should grip about six inches behind that spot. With your left hand, make a circle with your thumb and index finger. Put the cue through that circle, then rest it above the knuckle of your middle finger, the tip of which should be placed on the table. Do not grip the pool cue with your front hand; it's only there to steady your aim.
If your left hand is in front, your left foot should be too; your right foot should be about two feet back. Lean forward and square your hips to the pool table. When you hit the ball, keep your elbow parallel to the floor — this will keep your ball moving in the direction you aimed.
Practice! Playing pool, at least playing it well, is hard, and a small amount of practice goes a long way. To hit an accurate shot, draw an imaginary line from the pocket to the ball. The point on the ball where that line ends is where you want to hit, and ideally you want the ball to follow the exact line you drew. Yes, it's easier said than done. Hence, practice!
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
-
This Week's Best On-Sale Picks Include a Tory Burch Bag and Pretty Silver Ballet Flats
Warm weather is finally here—it's time to dress like it.
By Brooke Knappenberger Published
-
A Sporty It-Sneaker Era Is About to Begin
Nike's next Air models are designed for Olympic athletes, but they'll soon be all over street style.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
These Luxury Beauty Gifts Are Proven to Make Mom Feel Spoiled on Mother’s Day
The best in makeup, haircare, and skincare for your favorite woman.
By Brooke Knappenberger Published
-
The Best Bollywood Movies of 2023 (So Far)
Including one that just might fill the Riverdale-shaped hole in your heart.
By Andrea Park Published
-
‘Bachelor in Paradise’ 2023: Everything We Know
Cue up Mike Reno and Ann Wilson’s “Almost Paradise."
By Andrea Park Last updated
-
Who Is Gerry Turner, the ‘Golden Bachelor’?
The Indiana native is the first senior citizen to join Bachelor Nation.
By Andrea Park Last updated
-
‘Virgin River’ Season 6: Everything We Know
Here's everything we know on the upcoming episodes.
By Andrea Park Last updated
-
The 60 Best Musical Movies of All Time
All the dance numbers! All the show tunes!
By Amanda Mitchell Last updated
-
'Ginny & Georgia' Season 2: Everything We Know
Netflix owes us answers after that ending.
By Zoe Guy Last updated
-
35 Nude Movies With Porn-Level Nudity
Lots of steamy nudity ahead.
By Kayleigh Roberts Last updated
-
The Cast of 'The Crown' Season 5: Your Guide
The Mountbatten-Windsors have been recast—again.
By Andrea Park Published