Speed Control in Pool: 6 Tips to Hit the Ball Just Hard Enough
Quick answer: Speed control in pool means hitting the cue ball just hard enough to make the shot and leave the cue ball where you want. Most players hit too hard. Learn a few speeds, like soft, medium, and firm, use the same smooth stroke for each, and practice with drills that make the cue ball stop on a target.
Ask any good player what matters most, and many will say speed. Spin gets the attention, but speed decides where the cue ball ends up. Here is how to improve it.
Why Speed Matters
When you hit too hard, the cue ball travels farther than you planned. It is harder to make the ball, too, because pockets “accept” a slow ball better than a fast one. Softer, well planned shots are easier to control.
6 Tips for Better Speed Control
- Use a smooth stroke. Jerky strokes make speed hard to judge. Speed should come from how long your stroke is, not from a jab.
- Learn a few set speeds. Think of speeds as numbers, like 1 to 5. Practice each one until you can repeat it.
- Change the length of your backswing. A shorter backswing for soft shots and a longer one for firm shots helps keep the stroke smooth.
- Look at the whole path. Before you shoot, picture where the cue ball will stop, and pick a speed to get it there.
- Hit softer when in doubt. Being a little short is usually better than flying across the table.
- Learn your table. Some cloth is fast and some is slow. Take a few lag shots to feel the table before a match.
Drill 1: The Lag
Shoot the cue ball from behind the head string to the far rail and back. Try to stop it as close as you can to the head rail without touching it. This is the same lag used to see who breaks first.
Drill 2: Rail Targets
Put a piece of chalk on the side rail at the side pocket, then at the second diamond, then the first diamond. Shoot the cue ball off the far rail and try to stop it next to each target.
Drill 3: Stop on a Coin
Set up a straight shot. Put a coin one foot past the object ball. Make the ball and try to have the cue ball follow and stop on the coin. Then move the coin farther away.
Speed and Spin Work Together
Spin changes the direction of the cue ball. Speed changes how far it goes. You need both. But if you only have time to practice one, practice speed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is speed control in pool?
It is hitting the cue ball just hard enough to make the shot and leave the cue ball in a good spot for the next shot.
Why should I hit softer in pool?
Softer shots are easier to control, and the pocket accepts a slower ball more easily than a fast one.
What is a good drill for speed control?
The lag drill: shoot the cue ball to the far rail and back and try to stop it close to the head rail.
Is speed or spin more important?
Both matter, but many good players say speed is the most important skill for position.