Playing billiards may sound to you like a casual weekend activity when you meet up with friends at a local sports bar, but in reality, it’s a world all its own with global tournaments, professional players and pool enthusiasts. It is actually one of the most popular indoor games out there—pretty much always has been—and definitely for good reason.
It’s easy to learn
Even for beginners who don’t know the first thing about the special techniques and strategies, cue sports do promise a good time. Plus, anyone who’s interested in billiards can master it with some time and practice; the rules are easy to follow, it doesn’t require physical strength, and the basic movements apply to a number of different pool situations.
The initial setup might look like a big deal to you, but once you know what equipment you need for your own level, you can easily create your own poolroom at home! Later on, you can always upgrade your tools and equipment—the table, the cloth, the rack, balls, cues, and even the chalk—they all come in different shapes and sizes, and some online research can give you all the necessary tips on what to go for. According to Man Cave Kings, even the characteristics of your breaking cue can dramatically affect the longevity of your regular shooting cues—so it’s a good idea to make some wise choices, and let the good times roll!
It involves strategic thinking
One of the most well-known aspects of cue sports is that they require mental agility. You have to stay focused on your target and adjust your angles accordingly, meaning that you have to calculate potential movements in advance and concentrate on them. The table layouts are practically infinite; this wealth of possibilities stimulates your mind as you put your improvisation and problem-solving skills to good use, while enjoying the satisfaction of getting better at something you love.
It’s good for your health
Aside from sharpening the mind, playing billiards can provide you with some good hand-eye coordination, some low-impact muscle toning, in addition to some improved flexibility and balance. It doesn’t necessarily stand for your gym workouts, but it could even burn a few extra calories without you noticing! Health benefits of playing pool have been backed by science, too; studies show that it can slow down the aging process, and help battle certain diseases like Parkinson’s.
It’s great with people around
Sure, you can practice your billiard skills alone at home, but playing pool is essentially a social activity. You can mingle with other players in billiard clubs and poolrooms, or make friends with other fans during sporting events and tournaments. Even if your preferred venue is just a casual pub, some mild competition at the pool table after a couple of beers is definitely a good way to spend an evening! Arguably, this social aspect could be the main reason why playing billiards will never go out of fashion; it’s a relatively easy leisure sport that you can gradually master while meeting people from all walks of life and sharing the experience—what’s there not to like?
Call the shots
Whether cue sports owe their popularity to their unique environment, their health benefits or the versatile experience they offer, they have been around for more than a century, and are still going strong. If you also share our fascination with this cool, classy sport, don’t think it’s ever too late to take it up. Who knows, you might find yourself following the dazzling world of poolrooms and tournaments up close, or you just might become a pro yourself!
