JUMPING

“Where the cue ball lands is key to making the ball.”

-Robin Dodson

TO JUMP or not to jump, that is the question. With apologies to William Shakespeare, in today’s game it’s no longer a question. Everyone jumps and the equipment just keeps on getting better. The jump shot is a real crowd pleaser and a shot that can get you out of jail when you’re hooked. So put it in your arsenal.

There are two basic jump techniques. The traditional method (sometimes called under–handed), is to bend your bridging arm, elevate your shoulder, and drop your head.

The more modern technique involves flicking the cue stick over–handed like a dart. Some say this offers more accuracy because the body mechanics are more relaxed and the head has better alignment with the shot line. Top players have had great success using both techniques. The critical part of either technique is keeping a loose wrist and a loose grip.

Use a cue elevation of 45 degrees to jump a ball about twelve inches away. Increase the elevation as the cue ball gets closer to the object ball.

Pay attention to the speed of your stroke, as that determines how far the cue ball will stay airborne. Controlling your landing zone is one of the secrets to accurate jumping.

The jump shot has a little bit of gunslinger showmanship, but it’s worth mastering.

Publisher Credit: BEBOP Publishing
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