Quick answer: Left handed pool players use the same skills as right handed players, just in a mirror image. A lefty holds the cue in the left hand, makes the bridge with the right hand, and usually steps the left foot back in the stance. When you watch a right handed teacher, flip everything left to right. The aiming, stroke, and speed rules are the same for both. Practice your setup until it feels natural, and use a mechanical bridge or a long reach when a shot is awkward for a lefty.
Left handed players are not at a disadvantage on a pool table. Some shots will feel easy for you and hard for a righty, and some will be the other way around.
Your Basic Setup as a Lefty
| Part | Right handed player | Left handed player |
|---|---|---|
| Cue hand | Right | Left |
| Bridge hand | Left | Right |
| Back foot | Right foot back | Left foot back |
| Front foot | Left foot forward | Right foot forward |
| Chin | Over the cue | Over the cue |
For more on getting set, read pool stance for beginners and how to hold a pool cue. Just flip the hands and feet.
Stance Tips
- Stand behind the shot line. Line up your body with the shot before you bend down.
- Step forward with the right foot. Your left foot stays back on the line.
- Bend at the waist and keep your chin low over the cue.
- Keep your left elbow up and still. Only your forearm should swing.
Bridge Tips
Your right hand is the bridge hand. Both bridge styles work for lefties:
- Open bridge: easy to learn and good for most shots.
- Closed bridge: wraps a finger around the cue for more control on hard shots.
See open bridge vs closed bridge to learn when to use each one. On rail shots, read how to use a rail bridge in pool.
Shots That Feel Awkward for a Lefty
Some shots are set up so a lefty has to reach across the table. When that happens:
- Use the mechanical bridge. It is legal and smart.
- Switch hands only if you have practiced it. Some players learn to shoot easy shots with either hand.
- Plan ahead. Leave the cue ball where you can shoot comfortably with your left hand. Good position play saves you from long reaches.
Learning From Right Handed Teachers and Videos
Most lessons show right handed players. Try these ideas:
- Picture the video as a mirror.
- When a teacher says “left English,” think about which side of the cue ball they mean, and flip your hands, not the side of the ball.
- Ask your teacher to stand on your side when they show you the stance.
Side spin rules do not change for lefties. Hitting the right side of the cue ball is still right English, no matter which hand holds the cue.
Drills for Left Handed Players
- Straight in drill: set up straight shots and check that your stroke stays on line.
- Stop shot drill: hit the cue ball a little below center so it stops on contact.
- Reach drill: practice the shots that feel awkward until they feel normal.
For more practice ideas, see pool drills for beginners and how to practice pool by yourself.
Equipment Tips
Pool cues are not made for left or right hands. Any cue works. Pick a weight and length that feel good to you. See how long should a pool cue be and how to choose a house cue.
The Bottom Line
Pool tips for left handed players come down to one idea: do everything a righty does, but in a mirror. Build a solid stance, a steady right hand bridge, and a straight stroke. Use a mechanical bridge for long reaches, and plan your position so you can shoot comfortably.
Keep Reading on This Site
- How to Practice Pool Without a Table: 7 Simple Drills You Can Do at Home
- Pool Drills for Beginners: 7 Simple Drills to Practice Every Week
- How to Play Pool with Glasses: Simple Tips to See Every Shot
- How to Use a Rail Bridge in Pool: 3 Bridges for Shots Near the Cushion
- How to Hold a Pool Cue: A Simple Grip Guide for Beginners
- How to Line Up a Pool Shot: 7 Simple Steps for Beginners
Frequently Asked Questions
Is pool harder for left handed players?
No. Lefties use the same skills in a mirror image. Some shots are easier for lefties, and some are easier for righties.
Which hand is the bridge hand for a lefty?
A left handed player holds the cue in the left hand and makes the bridge with the right hand.
Do left handed players need a special pool cue?
No. Pool cues work for either hand. Pick a weight and length that feel good to you.
Does English work differently for lefties?
No. Hitting the right side of the cue ball is right English for every player.