Follow Jump Massé Shots: Advanced Forward Curved Jumps

The follow jump massé shot is an advanced billiards technique combining forward roll (follow), jumping over obstacles, and curving (massé). This allows players to navigate crowded tables while advancing the cue ball to optimal positions, creating both scoring and positional advantages.

1. What Is a Follow Jump Massé Shot?

A follow jump massé shot involves:

  • Striking the cue ball above center for forward spin

  • Elevating the cue to jump over obstacles

  • Applying side spin to curve the cue ball mid-air or after landing

This technique is used in high-level competition and artistic billiards, where conventional shots are blocked by multiple balls.

2. Technique Breakdown

  • Cue Elevation: Hold at 45°–60° for a controlled jump with curve.

  • Tip Contact: Strike above center and slightly off-center for combined forward roll and curve.

  • Stroke Power: Firm yet controlled stroke to ensure the cue ball clears obstacles and follows the desired curved path.

  • Follow-through: Smooth, deliberate follow-through ensures consistent forward momentum and curve.

  • Visualization: Plan the jump trajectory, landing position, and curve before executing the shot.

3. Applications of Follow Jump Massé Shots

  • Clearing Clusters: Leap over obstructing balls while curving around others.

  • Positioning Play: Advance the cue ball forward into a strategic spot for the next shot.

  • Offensive Strategy: Create opportunities where direct follow or jump shots would fail.

  • Showmanship: Demonstrates advanced skill and impresses spectators in trick-shot settings.

4. Common Mistakes

  • Incorrect cue angle leading to insufficient jump or curve.

  • Misplaced tip contact affecting forward roll or side spin.

  • Over- or under-hitting, causing loss of control or missed targets.

  • Poor visualization, resulting in inaccurate landing or trajectory.

5. Practice Drills

  • Single Obstacle Drill: Practice jumping over one ball while curving forward toward a target.

  • Cluster Drill: Use multiple obstacles to simulate complex table layouts.

  • Distance Drill: Gradually increase distance to improve control and accuracy.

  • Angle Drill: Experiment with different cue elevations and tip contacts to refine jump, curve, and forward motion.

Regular practice builds precision, confidence, and adaptability.

6. Equipment Considerations

  • Cue Shaft: Low-deflection shafts like BIZU Carbon Fiber Pool Cues ensure accurate trajectory on off-center strikes.

  • Cue Tip: Medium-hard tips provide a balance between forward roll, jump, and curve control.

  • Chalk: Proper chalking prevents miscues, especially on elevated strokes.

High-quality cues allow players to execute follow jump massé shots reliably, even under complex conditions.

Conclusion

Follow jump massé shots are a highly advanced skill combining forward roll, jumping, and curving. Mastery of this technique allows players to tackle crowded layouts, maintain optimal positioning, and execute visually impressive plays. With practice and precision equipment like BIZU Carbon Fiber Pool Cues, this technique becomes a versatile tool for competitive and artistic billiards.