'Fast Play' in poker refers to a strategy where a player bets aggressively with a strong hand rather than playing slowly or passively. This approach is often used when a player wants to build the pot or eliminate opponents from the hand.

What is Fast Play in Poker?

In poker, the term 'Fast Play' is used to describe a strategy where a player bets or raises aggressively when they have a strong hand. This is the opposite of slow playing, where a player with a strong hand plays passively to disguise the strength of their hand and induce their opponents to bet more.

The Strategy of Fast Playing

The decision to fast play a hand depends on several factors, including the strength of the player's hand, the number of opponents in the hand, and the player's position at the table.

Fast playing is often used when a player has a strong hand and wants to build the pot. By betting and raising, the player encourages their opponents to put more money into the pot. This strategy can be particularly effective if the player believes their opponents will call their bets.

Fast playing can also be used as a defensive strategy to limit the number of opponents in the hand. By betting aggressively, the player can force their opponents to fold, reducing the risk of an opponent drawing out on them.

When to Fast Play

The decision to fast play a hand should be based on the specific circumstances of the hand. Here are some situations where fast playing might be the best strategy:
You have a strong hand and you believe your opponent will call if you bet.
You're in a late position and several players have already called the blinds.
The board is likely to help your opponents improve their hands on the turn or river.
You want to protect your hand against potential draws.

Example of "Fast Play"

Let's say you're playing a hand of Texas Hold'em and you're dealt a pair of aces. The flop comes and you hit a set. Instead of slow playing your hand, you decide to fast play to build the pot. You make a large bet, and your opponent, who has hit a pair on the flop, decides to call.

• "With a flush on the flop, she decided to fast play her hand and made a large bet."
• "He fast played his set on the flop to protect against potential straight and flush draws."
• "After hitting a full house on the turn, she decided to fast play to build the pot."

Fast Play in Poker FAQs

[FAQ]
Q: What is fast play in poker?
A: Fast play in poker is a strategy where a player bets aggressively with a strong hand rather than playing slowly or passively.

Q: When should I fast play in poker?
A: You should fast play in poker when you have a strong hand and you want to build the pot, or when you want to eliminate opponents from the hand.

Q: Is fast play a risky strategy?
A: Fast play can be risky if your opponents are likely to fold to aggressive betting or if they can outdraw you on later streets. It's important to consider the specific circumstances of the hand before deciding to fast play.

Q: What's the difference between fast play and slow play?
A: Fast play involves betting aggressively with a strong hand to build the pot or eliminate opponents, while slow play involves playing passively with a strong hand to disguise the strength of your hand and induce your opponents to bet more.

Q: Can I use fast play in any poker variant?
A: Yes, the concept of fast play can be applied in any poker variant where there are multiple betting rounds.