"There's no easy money in poker." A pro on the game and its peculiarities

In the first interview, we discussed the unique aspects of the game of poker, Alexander's professional path, and bluffing strategy. In the second part, the poker player will share the peculiarities of live tournaments, talk about the most significant defeat of his career, and highlight the benefits of participating in a poker team. This conversation will provide a deeper understanding of the world of poker and its nuances, and will also provide valuable advice for players striving for success in tournaments.

Alexander shared his thoughts and experience. He discussed important aspects that can be useful for many. His knowledge and observations allow for a deeper understanding of the topic and identify key points worth considering. These insights will help not only beginners but also those with experience. It is important to always be open to new ideas and approaches, which contributes to personal and professional growth.

how I accidentally discovered poker at 15 and won all the free tournaments a year later;
why there is no more easy money in poker;
who is called a fish and who is a shark in poker;
what is variance and how to overcome it;
how bluffing works live.

"Can You Really Win Money Here?": The Beginning of the Journey

The First Poker Game: When and How Did It Happen? Memories of the first poker game can be especially memorable and important for every player. Often, this event is associated with excitement and anticipation as a beginner first dives into a world of strategy and excitement. It's important to remember that the first game can happen in a variety of settings: at a table with friends, at a house party, or even online. It's important to learn the rules and basic strategies to prepare for this unique experience. A first poker game can be the beginning of an exciting journey into the world of card games, opening up new horizons and opportunities for the player. At the age of 15, I went out into the woods with some friends for a barbecue. At one point, one of my friends pulled out a poker set and suggested we play. We agreed, despite having no idea what the rules were. My friend explained, "Ace, two, three, four, five is a straight, but King, two, three, four, five isn't a straight." I was confused and thought, "Why is that?" Despite the misunderstanding, this sparked my interest in poker.

Did I get hooked?

I became fascinated with poker and soon registered at poker rooms to start playing for play money using free chips. I studied and practiced extensively, constantly improving my skills. When I beat all available opponents and accumulated millions in play money, I decided to move on to playing for real stakes.

At 18, I first encountered the world of online poker. I found a Russian chat on a poker site and asked, "Guys, can you really win money here?" They laughed at me, but the answer was an affirmative "yes," which encouraged me to play. At the time, I was a beginner, focusing only on the basic hands and not delving into the details of strategy. However, the skill level of players at that time was quite low, and this was enough for success. After some time, I was able to withdraw money from the poker room and use it for my first vacation, which I organized thanks to my poker earnings. Going from amateur to professional in any field is an important step that requires effort and persistence. First and foremost, you need to deepen your knowledge and skills. This can be done through training, master classes, and practical seminars. It's also important to create a portfolio that showcases your achievements and projects. Networking with professionals and sharing experiences will help broaden your horizons and master new techniques. Don't forget about consistent practice, which plays a key role in development. Gradually, with accumulated experience and knowledge, you can move on to a professional level. During university, I actively developed my poker career by participating in numerous games. I studied forums and blogs on GipsyTeam, where professional poker players communicate, delved into theory, and analyzed my game with friends. Later, I created my own blog on the website and found like-minded people in the field.

I realized that poker could be a significant source of income. To achieve success, I needed to take the process seriously: develop a clear schedule, practice regularly, choose the right software, and set up a comfortable workspace. In 2016, when my son was born, that moment marked the starting point of my professional poker career. I decided to take a few individual lessons and enroll in a poker school for systematic training.

Alexander with his son. Photo: personal archive of Alexander Zubov

Am I a poker expert? Which form of poker have I had the most success with and spent the most time playing?

I prefer to play only Texas Hold'em, where players are dealt two cards. This format is more familiar to me than Omaha, which is dealt four cards, and other variations such as five-card and seven-card stud. Texas Hold'em offers a more strategic approach and fast-paced play, making it my favorite poker variant.

To achieve success and become the best in your field, it is important to focus on one specialization and avoid spreading yourself thin. This allows you to deepen your knowledge and skills, which ultimately leads to significant results. Without a clear focus, it is difficult to succeed, and many opportunities can be missed. Specialization helps not only become an expert but also differentiates you from the competition, which is especially important in today's market.

If poker were not such an important part of my life, I would look for other ways to earn money, perhaps pursuing a career in finance or analytics. A career in financial analysis or investment consulting could be a promising direction for me. I might also consider a career in technology, such as software development or digital marketing, where analytical skills and creativity are in demand. In any case, I would strive to find exciting and rewarding opportunities that utilize my skills and interests.

Poker became the only option for me. I had no desire to work for someone else and never had any experience in that. In my youth, I taught dance for only a couple of years, and even then I was still my own boss.

"Amateurs are attracted by the hope of blind luck"

Among the common stereotypes and prejudices about poker, several key ones stand out. Firstly, many believe that poker is a game of pure luck that requires no skill. In fact, success in poker depends on strategic thinking, psychological analysis, and the ability to read opponents. Secondly, there is a belief that poker is a game of chance that leads to financial losses and addiction. However, with the right approach and bankroll management, poker can be not only an exciting hobby but also a source of income. The third common myth is that poker is an exclusively male game. In fact, many women players achieve significant success in this sport. These stereotypes can prevent people from seeing the true nature of poker as a mental game where skill, strategy, and analytical thinking are essential.

If you tell an older generation that you're into poker, the reaction will often be the same: "Oh, that's gambling, you could lose your apartment, your car, and even your entire life!" In their eyes, you automatically become one of the most judged people. However, poker is not only gambling but also an intellectual competition that requires strategic thinking and skill. Many professionals make a living from poker, using their knowledge and experience to achieve success. It's important to understand that poker can be an exciting hobby that, when approached correctly, doesn't necessarily lead to negative consequences.

Poker is a mental game that requires strategic thinking and analysis. It has a strong competitive spirit, and success is achieved through a deep understanding of the game, the ability to count, and the ability to anticipate the actions of opponents. Legalizing poker in Russia would be an important step, opening up new opportunities for players and the development of the sport. Recognizing poker as an intellectual game will attract more attention to its strategic aspects and increase interest in competitions at the professional level.

Photo: personal archive of Alexander Zubov

The question of what plays the main role in poker - mathematics, analytics or luck - is the subject Discussions among players. Mathematical calculations, such as winning probabilities and pot sizes, determine game strategy and help make informed decisions. Analytics allow players to understand their opponents' playing styles, which is also important for successful participation in hands. However, luck cannot be discounted, as it can play a decisive role at certain moments. An optimal poker strategy requires a harmonious combination of these three aspects to achieve success at the table.

Success in poker, as in any sport, is determined by many factors, but their influence is uneven. About 30% of success depends on self-improvement, analyzing mistakes, and studying hands. Another 30% is training and practice, which allow the player to develop their strategies and decisions. Discipline, hard work, motivation, and confidence also play an important role, accounting for 20% of overall success. The remaining 20% comes from luck. As you can see, relying solely on luck is impractical; Achieving success in poker requires a comprehensive approach and constant self-improvement.

Many people rely solely on luck.

The idea of fatal luck excites and attracts many gamblers. Imagine this: you're participating in a tournament with a $100,000 prize pool. In this tournament, there's a small chance that you'll get lucky in every hand and win a large sum. This elemental probability becomes the main incentive for players, encouraging them to return to the game again and again. Gambling not only gives hope for good luck, but also creates an atmosphere of anticipation that attracts participants.

"I play 15 tables at a time"

Poker distinguishes several types of players, each with their own unique strategies and approaches to the game. The main categories of players include tight, aggressive, loose, and passive. Tight players choose their hands carefully and play only with strong cards. Aggressive players, on the other hand, actively bluff and bet, even with weaker hands. Loose players tend to participate in more hands, playing a wide range of hands, while passive players prefer to avoid risk, calling bets often but rarely raising. Understanding these player types will help you better adapt your strategy and increase your chances of success at the poker table.

I distinguish four main types.

In the poker world, an experienced player is commonly referred to as a shark, while a beginner or low-skill player is often called a fish. These terms reflect the difference in skill and strategy employed in the game. Sharks have a deep knowledge of poker, are able to read opponents and make informed decisions, while fish may act impulsively and not always consider the rules and strategies of the game. Understanding these terms will help you better navigate the poker environment and develop your skills.

Photo: personal archive of Alexander Zubov

Regular players often have an advantage over beginners and less experienced participants, but this does not mean that they always win. Success in the game depends on many factors, including strategy, luck, and the ability to adapt to the situation. Beginners can surprise experienced players with unconventional approaches and unexpected decisions. Thus, although regular players have more experience and skill, the final outcome can always be unpredictable.

The main feature of poker is that a player with an optimal strategy wins in the long run, but may experience losses over short periods of time. This phenomenon is called variance. For example, a player can be in the red for a month, and then recoup all their losses in one day and even make more. In poker, it is impossible to win every day, and this is what makes the game exciting and unpredictable.

In roulette, the outcome of the game does not depend on your actions, and in the long run, variance will always be negative. In contrast, in poker, with the right approach and consistent practice, you can achieve a positive mathematical expectation. Your skill, strategy, and ability to read your opponents play a key role in increasing your chances of success.

Variance is a phenomenon that can negatively impact the quality of various processes and systems. It is possible to overcome variance by applying certain methods and strategies. It is important to first identify the sources of variance and analyze their impact on the final result. Then, apply approaches such as process standardization, parameter optimization, and the use of modern technology to minimize variance. Implementing a monitoring and control system to promptly identify deviations and correct them can also be helpful. Applying these methods will significantly reduce variance and improve overall performance.

Success in gambling can only be achieved through long-term play. Sooner or later, you will definitely achieve the desired results if you regularly participate in tournaments. For example, I play thousands of tournaments a month, which allows me to accumulate the necessary experience faster than those who participate in only 50 tournaments. The more practice you have, the higher your chances of success.

To successfully develop and earn money in poker, it's important to play at least 500 tournaments per month. This is key to achieving results. Gradually increase the number of tables you play simultaneously: start with two, then move up to five, and continue building up to 15 or more. I currently play 15 tables, which significantly increases the volume of play and, consequently, the chances of success.

Working 15 tables simultaneously is a reality that requires a high level of organization and effective time management. The secret lies in process optimization and the use of technology. Proper prioritization, task delegation, and the use of specialized tools help manage multitasking. Thanks to these approaches, you can not only effectively manage multiple tasks but also increase your productivity. The implementation of competent planning and process automation allows you to achieve maximum results even under heavy workload.

Experience plays a key role in decision-making. I have a strong theoretical background and practical experience, which greatly simplifies the process. When a hand begins at the tables, I don't experience doubt or panic; I act instinctively, having worked through similar situations many times before. My mind is always focused and alert, allowing me to react quickly and effectively to what's happening.

Various questions and difficulties arise during the game. When I encounter a difficult hand or an unexpected loss, I document it after the session and carefully analyze it. I also turn to colleagues for advice on how to handle similar situations or use specialized hand analysis programs. This approach helps me improve my skills and make more informed decisions in the future.

There's a variety of software that can significantly simplify tasks and increase productivity. For example, Trello or Asana are excellent for project and task management, allowing you to organize and track your workflow. If you need to work with documents, Google Docs and Microsoft Office offer convenient tools for creating and editing text. For communication and file sharing, Slack and Zoom are great options, ensuring effective team collaboration. Data analysis software, such as Tableau or Microsoft Power BI, is also worth mentioning; it helps you visualize information and make informed decisions. Choosing the right software depends on the specific tasks and your team's preferences.

I often use Hold'em Resources Calculator (HRC)—a powerful tool for poker analysis and self-study. It allows me to analyze mistakes in detail and effectively navigate difficult game situations. For example, when I'm facing an aggressive player who's all-in and I have a mediocre hand, I record these moments in the program. After that, I analyze which cards I should make a decision with and how to respond to such aggression. HRC helps improve my skills and elevate my game.

One of the poker programs I recommend is Flopzilla. It effectively calculates opponents' ranges and significantly improves my understanding of the game. Using this program, you begin to understand the current hand more deeply: you can imagine how your opponent perceives your cards, why they make the bets they do, and also analyze the board structure and your opponent's range. All these aspects play a key role in decision-making and achieving successful results in poker. Flopzilla helps not only with analysis but also with the development of strategic thinking, which is very important for any player.

"I was shaking and turned green": is bluffing really that important for the game?

Bluffing and the ability to read your opponent play a key role in poker. These skills allow players to create deceptive situations and manipulate their opponent's perceptions. Bluffing is a way to make an opponent believe you have a strong hand, even if you don't. Successful bluffing requires not only luck but also a deep understanding of the game and the ability to read an opponent's emotions and behavior. Reading an opponent involves analyzing their bets, gestures, and reactions to various situations. A player who can accurately interpret their opponent's actions gains a significant advantage at the table. As a result, the combination of bluffing and reading an opponent becomes an essential element of poker strategy, enabling success in games of varying difficulty levels.

Player tells do matter, but their manifestation in real play differs from what is often shown in films. For example, scenes of a player's hands shaking are interpreted as a sign of bluffing, but in practice, things are much more complex. Correctly recognizing tells requires significant experience observing a specific player in various situations. It's important to keep in mind that some people's hands shake constantly, and it may have nothing to do with their play. Therefore, accurately analyzing your opponents' behavior requires a deep understanding of their playing style and habits.

I recently encountered an interesting situation at the poker table. One player had bet all his chips and was visibly nervous. I was sure he was bluffing, so I decided to call. He ended up with the nuts, and I lost. This experience taught me that you shouldn't immediately look for tells in your opponents or pay attention to their behavior. Your feelings can be misleading. It is better to rely on the analysis of the situation and mathematical probabilities than on subjective impressions of opponents.

Photo: personal archive of Alexander Zubov

Do you cheat yourself?

A good bluff is the key to success in poker. My first experience bluffing happened at a major tournament in Malta, where the entry fee was €2,000. I took a risk and bet all my chips at the very beginning of the tournament. I didn't expect bluffing in a live game to be so difficult. When I announced all-in, I was overcome with excitement, and I felt myself shaking.

I was extremely nervous, but I couldn't help it. My opponent, surprised by my state, quickly leveled the playing field and took all my chips.

There are various techniques for managing your emotions. One effective method is mindfulness, which helps you be in the present moment and acknowledge your feelings without judgment. Breathing exercises, which promote relaxation and reduce stress, are also helpful. Keeping an emotional journal can help you analyze your feelings and identify triggers. Physical activity, such as sports or walking outdoors, can also help improve your emotional state. It's important to remember that regularly practicing these techniques can significantly increase your emotional intelligence and improve your quality of life.

Experience plays a key role in life. Nowadays, when I bluff, I know my goals and understand my intentions, which allows me to remain calm. However, at that moment in Malta, I lacked this understanding, and I was really nervous.

In the West, many poker players use emotional pressure on their opponents at the table, showing aggression and staring into their eyes. I wonder if this happens in Russia? In Russian poker, you can also find players who use psychological techniques to influence their opponents. Attacking your opponent's emotions can be an effective strategy for gaining an edge in the game. However, the playing style in Russia is often different, and many prefer a more reserved approach, relying on mathematical calculations and analysis of the situation.

Sochi offers a unique atmosphere that is difficult to compare with other places. It is impossible not to smile while watching the game and the interaction of the players. The Russian gaming community is friendly, with participants actively interacting and enjoying the process. This creates a pleasant environment where friends and acquaintances can spend time together, strengthening bonds and enjoying the game together.

Alexander teaches the "Poker and Logical Thinking" course. As part of his training, he reveals the secrets of successful poker play, teaching students how to assess risks and calculate expected value, which he mentioned in an interview. The course offers a deep understanding of poker strategy and helps players develop the analytical skills necessary for success at the tables.

Learn more

"There's no easy money in poker." A pro on the game and its peculiarities

Contents:

"Can You Really Win Money Here?": The Beginning of the Journey

"Amateurs are attracted by the hope of blind luck"

"I play 15 tables at a time"

"I was shaking and turned green": is bluffing really that important for the game?