The Backswing - Viking Cues Tip of the Week with Mike Roque, author of Build Your Game.

The Backswing

“The backswing will make you or break you.” -Welker Cochran

STROKE MECHANICS are a curious combination of body parts working together in sync. The shooting stroke can be broken down into three distinct parts made up of a backswing, a transition, and a forward stroke.

The subtleties of a fine– tuned backswing often get overlooked, but they are extremely important because the backswing sets the timing for the final stroke.

If it’s rushed, it interferes with the muscles making a smooth transition forward. It can throw the cue stick off line, and introduce flaws and inconsistencies into your game.

On shots where the cue ball and object ball are very close, a quick backswing interferes with the finesse needed to change direction smoothly. The arm muscles tighten up and lose control. A common result is a false jab or a miscue.

Some players control this by using a very short bridge. This can automatically shorten the backswing to one that is appropriate for the shot.

A slow backswing gives the best chance to keep the cue on line during the first phase of the stroke. It isn’t flashy, but it is at the core of good stroke mechanics. Master it and good things will follow.

Don’t hurry or tighten up. Slow and steady wins the race.

Love our Tuesday Tip of the Week with Mike Roque, you can purchase your own copy of the his book "Build Your Game" at the BEBOB Publishing Website at http://bebobpublishing.com/morebooks.htm