Billiards Instructional Videos: 5 Tips to Learn Faster

TLDR: Billiards instructional videos are a great way to learn pool. Watch one skill at a time, start with the basics, watch more than once, and practice right after. Film yourself to check your work.

What you will learn:

• Which videos to watch first
• Five tips to learn more from each video
• A simple watch and practice routine

I have played pool for more than 50 years. I have played in leagues and tournaments for more than 38 years. For most of that time, there were no videos on a phone. You learned by watching good players. Now you can watch good teaching any time. That is a real gift, if you use it well.

What to Watch First

Start with the basics, in this order:

1. Grip. How to hold the cue loosely.
2. Stance. How to stand so your body stays still.
3. Bridge. How to make a steady hand to guide the cue.
4. Stroke. How to swing the cue straight and follow through.
5. Aim. How to line up simple shots.

After those, look for videos on cue ball control, then on game strategy. Trick shots are fun to watch. But save them for later.

Tip 1: Watch One Skill at a Time

Do not watch ten videos in a row. Your brain cannot hold it all. Pick one skill. Watch one or two videos on it. Then go practice.

Tip 2: Watch More Than Once

The first time, just watch. The second time, look at the details. Where is the back hand? Where is the head? Does the player move after the hit? Use slow motion if your app has it.

Tip 3: Watch From the Right Angle

Good videos show the shot from behind and from the side. From behind, you see the line of the cue. From the side, you see the arm swing. If a video only shows one angle, find another one that shows the other.

Tip 4: Practice Right After

What you watch fades fast. Try to get to a table soon. Shoot the skill 20 times. Then watch the video again. You will notice new things now that you have tried it.

Tip 5: Film Yourself

Set your phone behind the shot and record. Then put your video next to the lesson video. Look for one difference. Fix that one thing. Film again.

Where to Find My Videos

I post lessons on my YouTube channel. I also have free written lessons in my Pool School. The written lessons are handy at the table, when you do not want to hold your phone.

What Makes a Good Instructional Video

• It is clear and simple.
• It shows the shot from more than one angle.
• It explains why, not just how.
• It gives you a drill to practice.
• It does not promise magic results.

Be careful with videos that say one trick will fix your whole game. Pool takes practice. Good teachers say so.

A Weekly Watch and Practice Routine

• Day 1: Watch a video on one skill. Practice it.
• Day 2: Practice the same skill again. Film yourself.
• Day 3: Watch the video again. Compare. Fix one thing.
• Day 4: Play a few games and try to use the skill.

Next week, pick a new skill.

FAQ

Can I get good at pool from videos alone?
Videos can teach you a lot. You still need table time. A live teacher or a strong friend can also help spot problems.

How long should I practice after a video?
Even 15 minutes helps. The key is to practice soon after watching.

Are free billiards instructional videos good?
Many are very good. Look for clear teachers who cover the basics well.

What if two videos say different things?
Teachers have different styles. Pick one approach and test it at the table.

Summary

Billiards instructional videos can speed up your learning. Start with the basics. Watch one skill at a time, watch more than once, and practice right after. Film yourself and fix one thing at a time.

About the Author

I am Ted Mauro. I have played pool for more than 50 years and in leagues and tournaments for more than 38 years. I share free lessons on YouTube and in my Pool School.