Poker is a game that requires a lot of skill to beat over the long run. The top pros spend just as much time studying the game as they do playing it. They sign up for training sites like Chip Leader Coaching or Upswing Poker, network with successful pros, and brutally analyze their play after each session. They also make sure to treat poker as a business and eliminate distractions like the TV being on, music blaring, family and friends calling them, or their phones vibrating with notifications.
In addition to studying the game, the best online players develop their physical poker skills by focusing on stamina. This means eating well, getting plenty of sleep, and practicing techniques that improve focus and attention. They also work on their mental game by watching and learning from other players’ betting patterns. They aren’t afraid to take bad beats and know that winning streaks can quickly turn into losing ones. Watch videos of Phil Ivey taking bad beats, for example; he shows no reaction and moves on to the next hand.
When choosing an online poker site, look for a reputable one with high security measures. Check to see that they’re licensed by an independent gaming commission and have regular audits of their software. Also, make sure they’re using digital device fingerprinting to recognize and block duplicate accounts, which can occur when someone uses the same computer or network to play multiple tables at once.