I'm a member of Stox and Cardrunners - Their advice has helped me a great deal. It really takes you into the mind of a top poker player, they discuss the situation, what are possible decisions and why certain decisions are made.
I've also read and own almost every poker book out there. Only so much can be learned from a book IMO. Once I got a solid foundation from the books, I found the videos took my play to a whole new level. The videos also showed me what the top players are doing differently from what I currently do, and they discuss why they are doing that. Gives you so much more insight. You can then take it a step further and try to develope strategies to exploit the tendencies of the top pros (even though the vast majority of my opponents are complete donks), this helps to develope your own poker mind and thinking.
I've never had the luxury of having a group of friends to discuss hands and strategy, have always been a loner with regards to poker. Because of that I used 2+2 extensively even way back before the poker boom.
As a relative beginner, I believe books are necessary to provide a solid foundation from which to build up your skills. I am at the stage now where I am moving out "beyond" the books, in small increments. The only problem I see with them is that there is such a glut of information. I liken it to golf instruction, in that you have to take in as much as you can, but discard that which does not suit "your" game.
JAH, theory and practice of NL Holdem gave me great tips on how to bet more efficiently on the type of hand you are holdng, could possibly help out in cash games.
Ace on the River doesn't teach you about how to play or strategy. It teaches you have to maximize your earn and make money. Very good book and should be a must read for any aspiring pro/semi-pro.
Comments
I've also read and own almost every poker book out there. Only so much can be learned from a book IMO. Once I got a solid foundation from the books, I found the videos took my play to a whole new level. The videos also showed me what the top players are doing differently from what I currently do, and they discuss why they are doing that. Gives you so much more insight. You can then take it a step further and try to develope strategies to exploit the tendencies of the top pros (even though the vast majority of my opponents are complete donks), this helps to develope your own poker mind and thinking.
I've never had the luxury of having a group of friends to discuss hands and strategy, have always been a loner with regards to poker. Because of that I used 2+2 extensively even way back before the poker boom.
also ace on the river i have heard is decent, havent read it though.