One of the most rewarding parts and where many people vent their anger is the break.
Many players believe that the break is the most important, but it is not true.
What is important is that after the break you leave the cue ball stopped or in stop, as in this image.
The first stroke of a game is called a break. A break that is hit very hard is called a power break.
A good power break is important and can give you a big advantage.
The purpose of making a power break is to create as much ball movement as possible, to pocket the balls and to increase the chances of getting the table open, i.e. the balls are separated so you can achieve the “Holy Grail of Billiards“.
The most important attribute of a power break is solid contact with the 1-ball or first ball.
Another important attribute is cue ball control.
Ideally, the cue ball delivers all of its energy and stops near the center of the table, without too much movement after hitting the balls and hopefully they will be separated to pick up the table.
A good break should generally comply with the following:
- Make the break from the target line near the center of the table or in the center, so that the cue ball is as close to the balls as possible.
- Use a heavier cue or a special cue to make the break.
- Use the bridge with a longer distance than normal, to allow for a longer stroke.
- Use a closed bridge for more stability.
- Use a firmer grip than normal and take the cue further back to allow for more power during the stroke.
- Keep your upper body more upright than normal, with your weight more forward, to allow more power transfer to the cue.
- Keep your back leg straighter than normal and firmly planted to create more stability and allow for more power.
- When making the stroke let your cue rest on the pool table.
- The most important thing is to hit as straight as possible.
- Keep the cue as level as possible during the stroke to prevent the cue ball from leaving the table. When popping the cue ball off the table during the break, which is common with some inexperienced players, this usually occurs because the cue ball rises slightly and hits the main ball above the center.
To pocket the 8-ball on the break, which results in a win according to some rules, make a shot from the corner and hit the first and second balls at right angles.
- Now, if you don’t want to hit with your professional cue to avoid those annoying moments when your beloved pool cue’s sole flies off or your bushing breaks… What a pain!!!! Use a special cue for these cases.
