[FlashFunk]

I've been playing online for about a year and a half. Starting at the 25NL tables I've slowly worked my bankroll up to playing/winning at 200NL (6max).

This weekend I went to play for the first time in a live casino. The only NL game they spread is a 200NL with $3/5 blinds. Obviously the blinds are really high compared to the buyin and going into this had me a little on edge.

I lasted about 1.5 hours before busting out. The only thing going through my head was, if I raise preflop 4bb my continuation bet on the flop will almost pot commit me. This of course made me play scared and incorrect poker. It felt pretty obvious that most players could tell I wasn’t playing anything but premium hands.

Another reason for my girlishness was I only planned on spending 1 buyin. Online I can drop $200-400 without even batting an eye, but in live poker seeing $200 leave my wallet was a little more intimidating. I was also probably the youngest guy at the table (23).

Here’s the only ideas I could come up with:
-Come with at least 2-3 buyins that I’m ready to lose
-Play some 3/6 limit to just get used to being in a casino (this might not be a great idea as my limit experience is almost non-existent).
-Stop by the bar and have a couple beers before playing (I know this might sound ridiculous to some, but in my home game I’ve found I play much better poker after having a couple in me)

Any advice from you B&M regulars?

Is this something that only comes after putting in the hours?