Mental Edge Billiards
What do you do after a miss?
You miss a ball you make all the time in practice. Your opponent is at the table, and you’re still replaying the stroke. When you get another turn, where do you start?
I’m Bane Kalanj. Mental Edge Billiards is where I write and film the parts of pool that happen between shots. How do you let go of the last one, read the new layout and decide where you want the cue ball to finish?
Master Your Mind.
Command the Table.
Maybe you keep landing on the wrong side of the last two balls, feel the nerves before a match or find yourself practicing the same shots every week. Mental Edge Billiards brings Bane’s books, video lessons and drills together around moments like these. The Mental Edge series explores focus, decisions and pressure. Practice Lab gives you specific layouts and a score to record. Bring a question from last night’s league match and leave with something to try at the table.
Start from your situation
What would you like to work on?
I change my mind when I’m already down on the shot.
Start with the pre-shot routine in the first volume of The Mental Edge. Pick the line and speed while you’re still standing.
I rush when the match is on the line.
Volume 2 covers playing under pressure and finding your rhythm after an error.
I pocket the ball but lose position.
Practice Lab asks you to record where the cue ball actually finished. That gives you something specific to work on next time.
For your next turn at the table
One thing, while they shoot
While your opponent plays, choose one thing you’ll do when you get back to the table. For example, before you reach for the chalk, take in the whole layout.