Poker is a game of skill and dedication. While playing whenever the mood strikes can be entertaining, having a set poker schedule is key to seeing real results at the tables. Here are some tips on creating an effective routine for your poker success:
Target the Weekends for Profits
The weekends, especially Sundays, tend to be the most profitable time to play. Recreational players often have more free time on weekends and hit the virtual tables. Many professionals call Sundays “fish day” because of all the casual players logging on. The player pools on weeknights and mornings tend to be filled with more seasoned regulars and sharper opponents. Targeting Sunday afternoons and evenings specifically can put you in some of the most beatable games all week long.
Do Your Homework on Soft Poker Sites
One key to success is playing on poker sites with looser, more recreational player pools. Run some research online to find reviews and opinions on which sites have more “fish” to target. For example, sites like Coral Poker are well-known for having some of the most beatable games due to their player demographics. Make sure you have accounts set up on these soft sites to maximize your opportunities in profitable games with weaker opposition.
Schedule Consistent Study Sessions
Improving your poker skills never stops. Set aside consistent time each week for study to keep honing your play. Watch training videos, review hand histories of your previous sessions, read poker strategy articles and books, or get coaching. An hour or two per week dedicated solely to sharpening your skills through training sites, books, or courses can make a huge impact long-term.
Create and Stick to a Routine
Building a consistent, repeatable schedule for when and how often you actually play is crucial. For example, you could make it a routine to play 2-3 sessions per week on Friday nights and Sunday afternoons. The key is to stick to your predetermined schedule as closely as possible and build discipline. Cancelling sessions randomly or going on unplanned benders will undermine your progress.
Leave Room for Life Beyond the Tables
Be sure to schedule in family time, work commitments, and other responsibilities before poker. Don’t let poker consume your whole life. Setting boundaries will make you happier and prevent burnout or obsession. Keeping poker fun by making it just one part of a balanced lifestyle is the healthiest approach for the long haul.
Creating and sticking to a well-structured, thoughtful poker schedule requires dedication but will pay dividends in the long run. Playing at the right times against recreational players, choosing soft sites, studying consistently, and having discipline gives you the optimal path to poker success. Start planning your ideal schedule now to play your best game.