Do you know what momentum is? Momentum is the force of speed or movement as it relates to a physical object or event in time. In poker we are referring to events in time. I often like to refer to momentum when I sense that things are “going my way” at the tables. Momentum is not a tangible element like Rain or Sunshine. You must be able to “feel” when momentum has swung your way. When you do you need to understand how to be in and stay “in the moment.”

Let’s put it in context. Your sitting at a cash game and you just hit your flush. The very next hand you pick up pocket Aces. That is very recognizable momentum and you need to be aware of it.

So now that I am aware of it what do I do?

You play to it. You play to momentum by making that call when you have an inside straight draw and it’s not too costly to your stack. You play to momentum when you have cashed in three tournaments in a row and decided to move up to a $100 buy-in from your typical $20 buy-in hoping to capitalize on your good fortune.

Get the idea?

When you “feel” things are going your way you need to continue to put yourself in position to take advantage of that momentum. It doesn’t last forever but it does come in waves and when it does be ready to surf.

Deuces,

 CIII