Play Fast

To 'Play Fast' in poker refers to a strategy where a player makes aggressive moves, such as betting and raising, rather than just calling or checking. This strategy is often used when a player has a strong hand and wants to build the pot.

What Does "Play Fast" Mean in Poker?

'Play Fast' in poker refers to a strategy where a player makes aggressive moves, such as betting and raising, rather than just calling or checking. This strategy is often used when a player has a strong hand and wants to build the pot as much as possible. It is used in various poker variants, including Texas Hold'em, Omaha, and Seven-Card Stud.

For example, if a player is dealt a strong starting hand like a pair of Aces in Texas Hold'em, they might decide to 'Play Fast' and raise pre-flop to try to build the pot. A key mistake many low-stakes players make is not Playing Fast with their strong hands. Often, pros will slow-play for deception and lower-stakes players emulate this. However, at micro and low stakes, players are looser and more likely to call, so building a pot and getting value by Fast Playing strong hands is essential.

'Playing Fast' can also be used in the literal sense, where a player acts quickly. This can imply strength and immediately puts your opponent under pressure to make their decision.

Example of "Play Fast"

For instance, a player might 'Play Fast' if they hit a strong hand on the flop, like a straight or a flush, and want to extract as much value as possible.

In another scenario, a player might 'Play Fast' with a strong starting hand, raising pre-flop to try to build the pot.

• "I decided to Play Fast with my pair of Aces, raising pre-flop to try to build the pot."
• "He played fast, betting aggressively after hitting a flush on the flop."
• "She decided to Play Fast with her strong starting hand, wanting to extract as much value as possible."