BRIDGE

     Technique for forming bridge with free hand, either “open” bridge or “boucle” and reasons for using either. Bridge hand to form a firm rest on which the cue slides during the stoke.

The bridge is an important part of a player's technique and is often overlooked. To form a solid bridge place your hand on the table and spread out your fingers. Next, pull the tips of the fingers in and the knuckles of the hand should rise. The cue is placed between the thumb and knuckle of the first finger. If the bridge moves during the cueing process then the cue will come away from the line of aim and the player will not cue the white along the intended line. A coach can help to watch a player to see if the bridge is firm and if it is not then adjustments can be made.