Do you want to elevate your game and start making money in the cash games?
I have written this ultimate guide to cash game coaching that will help you unleash your full poker potential.
Cash games are a unique form of poker, requiring a combination of skill, strategy, psychological powers… and a good bankroll.
To truly excel in these games, professional coaching is essential. Even the best players in the world like Phil Ivey, Daniel Negreanu get cash coaching from other players.
Most of the time the coaches have much lower success in poker than the students.
But this is not an issue at all.
With the right coach by your side, you can learn advanced techniques, refine your strategy, and develop a winning mindset.
In this comprehensive guide, I will delve into the world of cash game coaching and provide you with all the tools and resources you need to succeed.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to improve your skills or an experienced player aiming to take your game to the next level, this guide has you covered.
How much does cash poker coaching cost?
The cost of cash poker coaching varies widely depending on the coach’s experience, reputation, and the specific game format. Prices typically range from $50 to several hundred dollars per hour.
An alternative to personal coaching is joining a poker training website or subscribing to a poker course, which can offer a more affordable and flexible learning experience.
The importance of cash game coaching in poker
Cash game coaching plays a crucial role in improving your poker skills and maximizing your profits.
However, this freedom comes with its own set of challenges.
Without proper guidance, it’s easy to fall into bad habits and make costly mistakes.
A qualified cash game coach can provide you with the knowledge and expertise to navigate through these challenges successfully.
They can help you identify and correct any leaks in your game, analyze hand histories, and develop a solid strategy tailored to your playing style.
Additionally, a coach can offer valuable insights into the psychological aspects of cash games, helping you maintain focus and emotional control during intense sessions.
With their guidance, you can fast-track your progress and achieve consistent profitability.
Finding the right cash game coach may seem daunting, but it’s worth the effort.
Look for someone with a proven track record, extensive experience in cash games, and excellent communication skills.
Consider their teaching methods and coaching style to ensure a good fit.
Remember, investing in professional coaching is an investment in your future success as a poker player.
Benefits of cash game coaching
Cash game coaching offers numerous benefits that can significantly impact your poker journey.
By working with a coach, you gain access to invaluable knowledge and expertise that can accelerate your progress.
Here are some my benefits of cash game coaching :
- Advanced Techniques: A cash game coach can teach you advanced strategies and techniques that are not easily accessible through self-study. They can provide insights into profitable bet sizing, hand reading, and exploiting opponents’ weaknesses. By incorporating these advanced techniques into your game, you gain a competitive edge over your opponents.
- Refined Strategy: Developing a solid cash game strategy is essential for long-term success. A coach can help you analyze your current strategy, identify areas for improvement, and fine-tune your approach. With their guidance, you can adapt your strategy to different table dynamics, exploit player tendencies, and make well-informed decisions in real-time.
- Spotting Leaks: Everyone has leaks in their game, but identifying and fixing them is crucial. A cash game coach can analyze your hand histories, identify recurring mistakes, and help you plug those leaks. They can provide valuable feedback on your thought process, decision-making, and overall gameplay. By addressing these leaks, you can improve your win rate and minimize unnecessary losses.
- Mental Game Development: Cash games can be mentally demanding, requiring focus, discipline, and emotional control. A coach can guide you in developing a strong mindset to handle the ups and downs of the game. They can teach you techniques to manage tilt, stay motivated, and make rational decisions even in high-pressure situations. A solid mental game can be the difference between success and failure at the poker table.
Finding the right cash game coach
Finding the right cash game coach is crucial for your development as a poker player.
I always consider the following things when looking for a cash game coach:
- Experience and Credentials: Look for a coach with a strong track record of success in cash games. Check their credentials, such as winnings (where possible), coaching certifications, and testimonials from previous students. A coach with proven expertise will provide you with the best guidance.
- Compatibility and Communication: It’s essential to find a coach with whom you have good chemistry and effective communication. You should feel comfortable asking questions and receiving feedback. A coach who understands your learning style and can adapt their teaching methods to suit your needs will be more effective in helping you succeed.
- Availability and Commitment: Ensure that the coach you choose has the time and commitment to dedicate to your development. They should be accessible for regular coaching sessions, hand history analysis, and ongoing support. A coach who is genuinely invested in your progress will be more motivated to help you achieve your goals.
Understanding the different cash game formats
Cash games come in various formats, each with its own unique characteristics.
Understanding the differences between these formats is essential for your success as a cash game player.
You are probably already aware of the most common cash game formats… in case you are not here they are:
- No-Limit Hold’em (NLHE): This is the most popular cash game format, where players can bet any amount of chips at any time. The absence of betting limits allows for more aggressive play and larger pots. NLHE requires a solid understanding of hand values, position, and bet sizing.
- Pot-Limit Omaha (PLO): PLO is known for its action-packed gameplay and bigger swings. In this format, players are dealt four hole cards instead of two, and must use exactly two of them in combination with three community cards to form their hand. PLO strategy involves understanding hand equities, pot odds, and the importance of drawing hands.
- Mixed Games: Mixed games combine different poker variants, such as Texas Hold’em, Omaha, Stud, and more. These games require a versatile skill set, as players must be proficient in multiple formats and adapt their strategy accordingly. Developing proficiency in mixed games can give you a significant edge in certain cash game environments. From my experience this is the format with the highest number of weak players.
Developing a solid cash game strategy
A solid cash game strategy is the foundation of your success at the poker table.
These are my key beginner elements to consider when developing your strategy:
- Starting Hand Selection: Understanding which hands to play and which to fold is crucial in cash games. Focus on playing premium hands in early position and gradually widen your range as you get closer to the button. Take into account your opponents’ tendencies and adjust your starting hand requirements accordingly.
- Positional Awareness: Position is a critical factor in cash games. The later your position at the table, the more information you have about your opponents’ actions. Utilize your positional advantage by playing more hands in late position and applying pressure on your opponents when you have position.
- Bet Sizing: Proper bet sizing is essential for maximizing value and minimizing losses. Avoid making bets that are too small or too large, as they can give away information or fail to extract value from your strong hands. Experiment with different bet sizes and observe how your opponents react to find the optimal sizing for each situation.
Analyzing hand histories and spotting leaks
Analyzing hand histories is a crucial aspect of improving your cash game skills.
Here’s how you can effectively analyze hand histories:
- Review Winning and Losing Hands: Take a close look at hands where you won significant pots and those where you lost money. Analyze your decision-making process in each hand and evaluate whether you made the correct choices. Look for patterns and tendencies that may indicate weaknesses in your strategy.
- Identify Common Mistakes: Look for recurring mistakes or leaks in your gameplay. These could be related to hand selection, bet sizing, bluffing tendencies, or post-flop decision-making. Once you identify these leaks, focus on improving them through targeted practice and guidance from your coach.
- Utilize Poker Software: Take advantage of poker software tools that provide in-depth hand analysis and tracking. These tools can help you visualize hand ranges, calculate equity, and identify optimal plays. Use them in conjunction with your own analysis to gain a deeper understanding of your game and make more informed decisions. Check the starting hands and positions from which you lost and won the highest amount of money.
Bankroll management for cash games
Proper bankroll management is crucial for long-term success in cash games.
It ensures that you can withstand the inevitable swings and variance that come with poker.
- Define a Bankroll Size: Determine the appropriate size for your cash game bankroll based on your skill level, comfort with risk, and the stakes you are playing. As a general rule, aim to have at least 30-40 buy-ins for the stakes you are playing to minimize the risk of going broke during downswings.
- Avoid Playing Beyond Your Bankroll: Stick to the stakes that are within your bankroll’s limits. Playing higher stakes than you can afford increases the risk of ruin and can negatively impact your decision-making. Be patient and gradually move up in stakes as your bankroll grows.
- Track Your Results: Keep a record of your cash game sessions, including wins, losses, and other relevant data. By tracking your results, you can monitor your progress, identify trends, and make necessary adjustments to your strategy or bankroll management approach.
Mental game and emotional control in cash games
The mental aspect of cash games is often underestimated but plays a crucial role in your overall success.
- Focus and Concentration: Maintain focus and concentration throughout your cash game sessions. Avoid distractions, such as browsing the internet or engaging in unrelated conversations. Staying present and attentive will help you make better decisions and capitalize on your opponents’ mistakes.
- Manage Tilt: Tilt is a state of emotional frustration that can negatively impact your decision-making and lead to poor results. Recognize the signs of tilt and take steps to manage it effectively. This may include taking breaks, practicing deep breathing exercises, or seeking support from your coach or peers.
- Develop Resilience: Cash games can be mentally challenging, especially during downswings. Develop resilience by maintaining a positive mindset and learning from each experience, regardless of the outcome. Embrace the concept of variance and understand that short-term results don’t always reflect your true skill level.
