If you have taken a long break from playing poker, it is essential to gradually get back into the swing of things. Trying to jump right back into playing at your previous level may be overwhelming and lead to frustration. Here are some tips on how to ease your way back into playing poker:
See What’s Changed In The World of Poker
The world of poker is constantly changing, and if you have been away for a while, it is crucial to catch up on the latest news and happenings. Read some poker blogs, watch some poker training videos, or just chat with other players online to get an idea of what has changed since you last played.
Play With Friends And Family First
If you don’t feel like jumping back into playing poker with strangers, that’s okay! You can always practice at home by playing against friends and family members. It is a great way to ease your way back into playing poker, minus the pressure.
Play Slowly For Now
When you do start playing poker again, take things slowly at first. There’s no need to try and win every hand or play at a breakneck pace. Start by playing one or two hands at a time until you become more comfortable.
Start With A Small Bankroll
Since you’ve been away for quite some time, it’s best to start with a small bankroll. This way, you can ease your way back into playing without risking too much money. Once you get more comfortable playing again, you can increase your bankroll.
Focus On The Basics
If you’re feeling rusty, it’s essential to focus on the basics. Review the rules of the game and brush up on your strategy. Once you feel more confident, you can start thinking about more advanced concepts.
Try Online Poker
You can always try online poker if you’re not ready to jump into a live game. There are plenty of free and real money games available, so you can find one that suits your skill level. You can also take advantage of the many bonuses and promotions online poker sites offer.
If you haven’t decided on an online poker room yet, sign up at GGPoker, the world’s largest poker room, which has thousands of online poker players across the globe, so itโs a great choice if you want lots of games.
Play at Lower Stakes And Shorter Sessions
One way to ease your way back into playing poker is to lower the stakes that you are playing for. Doing so will allow you to get back into the swing of things without putting too much pressure on yourself. Once you feel more comfortable, you can start raising the stakes again.
Also, try shorter poker sessions. It will help you ease back into playing without feeling like you need to commit a lot of time to it. You can gradually increase the length of your sessions as you start to feel more comfortable.
Lastly, take a break if you feel overwhelmed after a few games. Walking away from the poker table for a few minutes helps you clear your head. After that, you can come back refreshed and ready to play your best poker hands.
Talk To Other Returning Players
If you know anyone in the same boat as you, reach out to them! It can be helpful to talk to other people going through the same thing. You can share tips, offer support, and just commiserate with each other.
The best way to do this is to visit a poker forum. Here, you will find many people who have taken breaks from poker and are now trying to get back into the game. You can ask questions, read helpful articles, and find support from other players.
Recall What’s Worked For You Before
Try to remember what has worked for you in the past. If you are comfortable with a particular style of play, stick to it. You don’t need to try and reinvent your strategies here. Just get back to doing what you do best, and sooner or later, you’ll be your old poker-playing self again.
Donโt Be Too Hard on Yourself
It is important to remember that it takes time to get back into the swing of things after taking a long break. Donโt be too hard on yourself if you make some mistakes. Just keep playing, and you will eventually return to where you were before.
Start with Smaller Fields
So you feel like you’ve regained your footing and are now ready for a tournament. Good. However, it’s recommended that you start with smaller fields. It means playing in tournaments with fewer players. It’s another way to ease your way back into playing poker, giving you a chance to get some practice without feeling overwhelmed by the competition. Once you feel more comfortable, you can start playing in larger fields again.
Just Enjoy the Game
Above all, just enjoy the game. Poker is supposed to be fun, so don’t put too much pressure on yourself to perform. Just keep playing and having a blast. Once the love you have for the game has come back, the rest will come eventually.
Get Back Into the Swing of Things Gradually
Poker is a great game to play; it can be even more fun after taking a break. And don’t think like you have to jump right back into playing at your previous level. Taking your time and easing your way back into playing is essential. By following these tips, you will be on your way to getting your poker game back up again in no time!
