The importance of a proper stance cannot be over-emphasized. When you have it, every aspect of your game becomes simplified. You are comfortable, relaxed, firm on your feet and, above everything else-well-balanced. Without a correct stance, even the simplest stroke becomes a twisting and gnashing of unnecessary muscles. Your feet become unsteady, your center unbalanced, and your muscles strain to correct the imbalance, resulting in an imperfect stroke.


Obviously, stance is very important. If you expect the other mechanics of your game to operate smoothly, it is imperative to have proper balance at the table. The keys to a proper stance are balance and comfort. Since no two people have exactly the same body type or physique, a good stance is often a matter of personal preference. When watching top professionals, you'll see many differences in foot placement, degree of bend, and height of head above the pool cue. All their stances, however, are built upon the same principle: to stroke smoothly, fluidly and evenly, stance must be comfortable and balanced.


While your stance can certainly be an expression of your individuality, there are basic principles that must be adhered to. First, your feet should be spread wide enough, so that a nudge (from any angle) won't knock you off balance. Weight should be evenly distributed from one foot to the other. You should be comfortable enough to bend your knees slightly, or lift out of your stance freely and easily. The position of your feet is equally important. With the exception of certain close-up or stretched-over-the-table shots, both feet should be pointed in the same direction.


Many aspects of stance will vary to a degree, even among professional players. Some say you should stand 10-12 inches from the table. Of course, this often varies with the nature of the shot, depending on where the cue ball is located. The important thing is to establish a consistent stance, one which will allow you to develop a consistent stroke. One balanced and comfortable, giving freedom of movement, allowing you to strike shots without pinching or stretching.


The same principles hold true for shots that require you to alter your stance. Whether you have to stretch across the table or squeeze close to the rail, balance is equally important. If your stance ever becomes unsteady when setting up for a shot-if you begin to tip over or slip from your stance-pull off the shot and make adjustments. If you cannot attain balance, don't force a bad shot. Reconfigure your stance and try a practice stroke, or use the mechanical bridge.


The positioning of the head is another aspect of stance that varies from player to player. Some players stand more erect than others, with their chin several feet above the shaft of the cue. Others bend so much, the hairs on the chin practically whistle against it. Most players fall between the two extremes. The important thing to consider in the positioning of your head is how it enhances (or screws up) your aim. Many players feel that the lower they get, the better they can see the cue ball in relation to the object ball. Others feel that getting too close makes it difficult to see the contact point on the object ball. A safe starting point is to start somewhere in the middle, with your chin about a foot from the shaft. From there, you can adjust slightly up or down, until you determine where you feel the most comfortable and effective.


Despite the many variations in pool stance, there are basic principles virtually all the greatest players agree on. First and foremost, of course, is balance. Without a balanced stance, none of the other mechanics will merge into a unified whole. Feet should be spread to a comfortable level, with weight evenly distributed. They should also be planted firmly on every shot (even when stretching or using the mechanical bridge). The distance one stands from the table should always allow for a free-flowing stroke. Front arm should be extended and straight (or nearly straight), with the bridge hand planted firmly on the table. The chin should be aligned, directly over the cue. Posture (amount of bend) should be comfortable and based on effectiveness-on the effect it has on consistently producing a smooth, even stroke. Whether standing nearly erect, bending profusely, or assuming a stance in between, the back arm should flow freely in a pendulum stroke, keeping the cue stick level.


Finding the stance that fits one's game is often a matter of trial and error. For beginners, the simplest way is often to try a basic stance, then modify it through practice and play. Begin by standing erect, one foot from the table, facing the direction of your shot. With your weight distributed evenly, turn both feet slightly to the right (for right-handed players), and bend slightly at the waist, to a comfortable position. Your feet should be 6-8 inches apart. Your chin should be directly over the cue. This stance will allow your right arm to swing freely and your left arm to be extended as straight as possible. Your left knee will be bent a bit more than your right, and your body will be free to move slightly forward with the stroke.