How to Focus While Playing Pool

Relax before beginning the pool game. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that fit well and make you feel confident. Eat a light meal 30 to 60 minutes before the beginning of the pool game, making sure to include an assortment of nutritious foods (such as a whole grain bagel and celery topped with peanut butter) that provide long-lasting mental energy for the repeated decisions you'll need to make throughout the game.

Concentrate throughout the pool game. Total concentration keeps you comfortable and gets you into pool-playing mode, allowing you to assess the ball positions more readily and plan several shots ahead, says Gerry Kanov, professional pool player and co-author of "Precision Pool." Rid your mind of all anxiety, stress and distractions before you go out to take the first shot. Aim slowly and deliberating with each shot, lining up your body up in a straight line with the pool cue and focusing your eyes on the target ball before taking the shot.

Visualize yourself making each shot before you shoot. Picture the cue ball making contact with the target or object ball and pushing the target ball into motion into the desired pocket. Always include in your visualization the final destination for the cue ball; not only does this help you keep from accidentally sinking the cue ball and ending your turn, but it also allows you to plan multiple shots in a row, thus increasing your chances of running the table and winning without even allowing your opponent to get a shot.

Practice relaxation techniques during the pool game. Like other games, playing pool can cause your body to release adrenaline; uncontrolled, this adrenaline often hampers the fine motor skills necessary for controlling and successfully executing multiple pool shots, says Kanov. Breathe deeply before shooting to clear your mind and promote calmness, then return to normal breathing when you take the shot.