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Oct 18, 2004 :: Trying New Stroke Routine
Keep It Cool (a side note from Samm's Side Pocket)
Have you ever been in a match and discovered that your body temperature began rising uncontrollably? Did you notice your hands getting clammy? Or, did you begin sweating profusely? These do not sound like very attractive characteristics, but many of us are victims to one or more of them.
How do we prevent this from happening? How do we maintain the basic 3 C's (Calm, Cool, and Collected) during a match? Unfortunately, there is no key ingredient or magic pill to make this happen. There are, however, some ways to lower your body temperature and help you keep your cool during your match.
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Dress cool, and comfortably. If your body is sensitive to temperature changes, it may be time to do some shopping. Look for tournament apparel that is loose-fitting and comfortable to play in. I don't buy anything that I can't shoot pool in. If you want to win, think "function over fashion."
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Wash your hands. Before or during your match, wash your hands with cool to cold water. Not only does it help lower your body temperature, it will help wake you up. Make sure your hands are completely dry before playing.
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Drink lots of water and make sure it's available. Most large tournaments supply water for the players. Bring your own water bottle and refill it before matches. That way, you'll always have it with you and you won't have to wonder if you're drinking from the right cup. Drinking cold water hydrates and replenishes the body better than soft drinks or beer.
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Don't forget to breathe. Long, slow, deep breaths between shots help supply plenty of oxygen to the brain and slow down your heart rate. Find a solid breathing pattern for yourself and sustain it during your match. Also, make sure you breathe when you're shooting. Don't hold your breath.
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Walking/strolling between matches. Keeping the circulation going between matches is better than sitting around, waiting to see who your next opponent is. It also helps to keep the muscles loose and relaxed.
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Get a towel. Trust me, once you start keeping a towel on your case, you'll find many uses for it. It helps keep your hands dry too.
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Get help. If all else fails, consider using a glove or hand talc. Some people just have naturally clammy, moist hands and there is nothing that will change it. If your clammy hands are affecting your ability to create a smooth, stable bridge, it may be time for reinforcement.
Notice what works for you. Everyone is different. What you do that day or what you eat may even affect how your body reacts. Staying calm, cool and collected conditions your body to consistently perform at high levels.
So, the next time you begin feeling a bit warm and flush, don't let that feeling consume you. Keep it cool while shooting pool.
