Some will say that the technique that is most appropriate for the pool game depends from one person to another. I would not agree more, just like on where to grip the pool cue during the game. You must identify first some factors that may affect where you should grip it like the length of the pool cue and the pool cue balance point as well as your height. Let’s define some terms first. Balance point is where the cue stick will teeters on its own while you hold it with an index finger. Once you identified these, it would be easier for you to find the best gripping point. Your height also will set some changes but generally, grip the pool cue at least 6 inches away from the balance point going towards the butt area. The shorter you are, the closer you are to the balance point. The type of shot to be executed can also affect your grip as well as the position of the pool balls on the table. Can you share your own experience?

pic via billiards.about.com

Do you know where to grip a cue stick? Here is an easy way for anyone to determine exactly where to grip the butt of the cue.

1. Place the cue ball on or near either one of the spots on the pool table. The spots should be marked. There will be dots at either end of the table, halfway in from the sides.

2. Hold your cue stick with the tip about 6 inches from the cue ball. It doesn’t matter how you hold it there right now, just hold it there.

3. Let the butt end of the pool stick rest on the rail while you stand at the side of the table as if you were shooting.

4. Grip the cue where it touches your hip or leg. Within a few inches, this is where you should be gripping the cue every time you shoot.

There will be circumstances when you may need to adjust your grip forward or back on the cue – but it is extremely rare to ever need to grip the very end of the pool stick.

The key to using the proper grip is simple: relax. The grip is something few players give a second thought to but it affects even the top pros in big matches. The tendency , especially on tough shots or in critical points of a match , is to consciously squeeze the cue a little tighter. The greater the tension, the more he smoothness and fluidity in your stroke will suffer. Your back hand must remain loose and relaxed. Get into the habit of checking your grip in tough situations. This practice will help you slow down, re-check the basics, and calm yourself before the big shot. All that is really required for a proper grip is your thumb, index and middle finger. There should be a little space between the palm of your hand and the cue. Remember, your grip is simply guiding the cue in a forward motion. Practice by looking back at your grip hand while stroking. You should notice a little more space open up between your palm and the cue on the backswing. On the follow-through, your palm should come down onto the cue but don’t tighten your grip.