Posture Problems? A Single Photo Can Fix Your Form
Good posture is the foundation of a solid pool or billiards game. If your stance, spine alignment, or bridge hand placement is off—even slightly—it can subtly sabotage your accuracy, consistency, and comfort at the table. But the tricky part? Many players don’t realize they have posture issues until bad habits become ingrained.
Here’s a simple, yet powerful tip: take a single photo of your stance and stroke.
Why One Photo Makes a Difference
When you watch yourself in the mirror or feel your own movements, it’s easy to miss subtle flaws. But a photo freezes the moment, letting you analyze your:
Head position (Are you looking straight down the cue or tilted awkwardly?)
Back alignment (Is your spine curved or straight?)
Arm and elbow angles (Is your stroke arm too high or low?)
Bridge hand position and grip (Is your bridge stable and your grip relaxed?)
Foot placement (Are your feet spaced for balance or cramped?)
How to Use Your Photo to Improve Posture
Compare to Pros: Look up images of top players’ stance and stroke. Compare your photo side-by-side for glaring differences.
Spot Asymmetry: Check if your body is twisted, shoulders uneven, or if you’re leaning too far forward or back.
Adjust and Retake: Make small changes, retake photos, and track progress. Over time, you’ll build muscle memory for better form.
Common Posture Issues Revealed in Photos
Hunched Shoulders: Causes tension, reduces fluidity in your stroke.
Elbow Dropping or Raising: Changes your stroke plane, affecting cue ball control.
Uneven Weight Distribution: Leads to imbalance and wobbling during shots.
Bridge Too High or Low: Makes cueing inconsistent and unstable.
Bonus: Ask a Friend or Coach
Sometimes self-assessment is tough. Sharing your photo with a coach or experienced player can yield insights you wouldn’t see yourself. They can offer targeted advice and exercises to fix your posture problems.
Final Thought
Fixing your posture doesn’t require hours of analysis or expensive equipment. A single, well-taken photo combined with honest review can point you toward immediate improvements. Stand tall, shoot straight, and let your body support your game—not hold it back.