Break-off
To start the training frame, break-off as normal.
An attack-minded player should look to bring more reds into play than a cautious player.
Remember to review the outcome to see if the break-off needs improvement!
A training frame ends when a first shot is missed or when the best break made exceeds the points left on the table.
Ball-in-hand
The cue-ball can be placed to start each break-building attempt.
The above illustration shows where the cue-ball could be placed to remove a problem ball straight away.
Be careful to position the cue-ball well as a training frame ends early if a first shot is missed!
Assess
Start each training frame visit by making a quick assessment of the table.
Calculate the number of potable reds and identify any balls that are blocking the potting paths of the high value colours.
Once the break is in progress make sure to plan the next 2-3 shots but don’t over think things!
Break-building tips
It’s important good decisions are made when break-building.
Favour high blacks over low blacks as there’s normally a bigger target area to land the cue-ball in for the next red.
Use brush and push cannons to bring needed reds into play.
Do NOT fight angles. If the potting angle doesn’t allow the cue-ball to be easily held use the cushion/s instead.
Make sure to practise the high blacks!
Opening the pack
The illustration below shows a perfect opportunity to go into the pack from a low black with a back-up red.
If there’s not a back-up red, aim to be lower on the black so a stun-run of the cue-ball can be made through the pack.
When opening the pack from the blue make sure no reds are planted to the top pockets.
Only bring more reds into play if they will be needed to secure the frame!
Free shot
When position is lost, do not take a pot on that wouldn’t be taken on in a match.
Instead of playing safe, in the training frame a free shot can be taken to bring more balls into play. Then use ball-in-hand to start a new break.
Don’t forget to record this score if it is a best break!
Insurance balls
In the scenario shown, only two more reds with colours are needed to secure the frame.
The three safe reds should NOT be taken before the two reds in open play.
Unless needed to win the game, balls in safe positions should left alone as they provide insurance should the break come to an end!
Calculate
Use the training frame’s current best score as a target.
Doing this means that from the second visit the scoreboard should be checked to calculate what’s needed to win the frame.
This is a very valuable skill to learn!
Winning post
Extra care should be taken when near to winning a frame.
Take time work out what is needed to reach the snookers required stage.
Make sure to maintain full concentration to and past the winning post!
Measure progress
The purpose of the training frame is to make higher breaks and learn how to win frames from one visit.
So when the training frame ends make sure to record the highest break achieved.
Then average these highest breaks to measure progress made.