Follow Shots: Rolling the Cue Ball Forward with Control

After mastering the stop and stun shots, the next cornerstone technique every pool player must learn is the follow shot. This is when the cue ball continues to roll forward after hitting the object ball, allowing players to maintain momentum and position themselves strategically for the next shot. Follow shots are indispensable for building smooth runs and controlling offensive play.

1. What Is a Follow Shot?

A follow shot happens when the cue ball strikes the object ball while already in forward roll. Instead of stopping or sliding, the cue ball naturally keeps moving in the same direction, usually following the object ball’s path.

Key characteristics:

  • Forward spin carries the cue ball beyond contact.

  • Provides a natural transition to the next position.

  • Works best on medium-speed to firm strokes.

2. How to Execute a Follow Shot

  • Cue Tip Placement: Strike the cue ball above center to induce forward roll.

  • Stroke: Use a smooth, accelerating follow-through to transfer momentum.

  • Speed Control: Adjust force depending on how far forward you want the cue ball to travel.

  • Cue Angle: Keep the cue as level as possible to avoid unintended miscue.

The secret is combining tip placement with stroke fluidity—rushed strokes kill the effect.

3. Applications of Follow Shots

  • Maintaining Offensive Flow: Allows players to keep cue ball movement natural and continuous.

  • Breaking Open Positions: Helps navigate through tight clusters by carrying forward.

  • Run-Out Planning: Smoothly transitions between consecutive shots.

  • Kiss Positioning: Useful for creating angles off rails after contact.

Follow shots are the backbone of offensive rhythm in professional play.

4. Common Mistakes

  • Too Much Speed: Overrolling past the desired position.

  • Insufficient Forward Spin: Cue ball stalls instead of following through.

  • Cue Elevation: Striking downwards can cause unintended draw or miscue.

  • Over-Reliance: Players sometimes use follow shots when stop or stun would provide better control.

Awareness helps refine execution and decision-making.

5. Practice Drills

  • Straight-In Follow Drill: Pocket a ball head-on and practice rolling the cue ball forward different distances (6 inches, 12 inches, 2 feet).

  • Angle Follow Drill: Strike balls at varying angles and observe how far the cue ball continues past impact.

  • Rail Follow Drill: Use follow shots to bring the cue ball naturally off the cushion into your next position.

Consistent repetition builds mastery.

6. Equipment Support

  • Carbon Fiber Cues: Deliver smooth energy transfer for natural rolling action.

  • Soft to Medium Tips: Enhance grip on the cue ball, giving reliable forward spin.

  • Balanced Weight Distribution: Provides fluid control in long follow-through strokes.

BIZU cues are designed to maximize spin control, making follow shots easier to execute consistently.

Conclusion

The follow shot may appear simple, but its subtle variations separate amateurs from skilled players. Learning to control forward roll with precision is essential for planning multi-ball patterns, maintaining offensive momentum, and achieving professional-level cue ball control.

With proper training and the reliable performance of BIZU Carbon Fiber Pool Cues, you’ll make follow shots not just routine, but a strategic weapon.