You have probably heard the expression “poker face” many times and probably wondered what it means. Let’s find out its real meaning and how it can help you win at 5Gringos. If you, having studied a lot of gambling tactics and learned how to manage your bankroll wisely, still cannot start winning in the casino, perhaps the reason for this is your own face. Well, if you are a beginner, keep reading.
Origins Of The Term
Some researchers from the world of gambling attribute the first appearance of the expression “poker face” to the 1870s. It first appeared in a book explaining the rules of gambling. There is an assumption that this iconic phrase was used before that, but there is no printed confirmation of this.
How To Keep An Emotionless Face
Some 5Gringos players take an unusually long time to make a decision after you place your bet, so be prepared to keep a blank face for several minutes. It’s crucial that not a single muscle in your face wavers until your opponent takes action.
One way to hone control over your emotions and see if you are giving yourself away is to look at yourself in the mirror, as ridiculous as it sounds. You can practice not expressing yourself, even if you mostly play online. Just imagine you’re in a live establishment and control your emotions; that way you can develop a habit that will come in handy in a big way when you have to play live. Online games at 5Gringos are much faster than in a land-based establishment, and no one is looking at you during them, but it’s good practice nonetheless.
Be prepared that some opponents will try to force you out of this unimpressive state. They will ask you questions, comment on how their hand has turned out, and do everything to get you emotional. Ignore them and focus on not giving them more information than you had originally planned. Over time, you’re bound to find your own way to accomplish this, maybe counting in your mind, humming your favorite song to yourself, or something else will work for you.
Use Of Accessories
Some gamblers use various accessories to hide at least part of their face, such as sunglasses, tinted glasses, or a mask (this method was particularly relevant during the restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic). Likewise, some people use headphones to turn on music, distract themselves, and not hear their opponents.
These ideas are only good for games with beginners or at low-stakes tables, where no one is particularly observant of such things.
It’s worth saying that it’s in your best interest not to wear sunglasses to hide your eyes, and not to rely on listening to music to drown out any speech because most organizers of major live poker tournaments make participants remove headphones, dark glasses, and other accessories once the event reaches a certain “serious” stage. Practice and learn self-control; demo games at 5Gringos and even friendly games without money can help. That way, you can learn how to keep a nonchalant face in all circumstances.
Extra Hacks
Here’s what to do to manage your emotions and “put on” the right face in time:
- Learn to control your emotions. Always and everywhere.
- Pay attention to your own involuntary and repetitive movements when you are nervous, angry, or happy. They must necessarily control them, but it’s best to change your behavior and get rid of them.
- You will have to long and persistently train the right facial expression and emotions in front of the mirror so that in society, it’s easy to put on any “face.”
- Practice in the company of acquaintances and friends. Learn to read their emotions.
- Just relax. After all, poker face is needed only in important moments, and after all, you are not a mummy.
- Be calm, attentive and breathe evenly. This will help you not succumb to stress and control the situation.
Being able to keep a poker face while playing at 5Gringos helps you control yourself and your emotions, but be real. Sometimes, it’s the best skill to have.
