Poker is a game of chance, but as you get into the betting phases of the game there’s a lot of skill involved. Developing a solid understanding of the rules, hand rankings and position is essential for success.

After the cards have been dealt, the players put mandatory bets called blinds into the pot (representing money). The player to the left of the dealer is then first to act and begins by revealing his or her hidden cards. Players then take turns revealing their own cards, clockwise around the table. The highest hand wins the pot.

As you play, pay attention to the tendencies of your opponents. Are they conservative players that fold early, or aggressive risk-takers? Identifying their tendencies can help you decide whether or not to call, raise, or fold.

You can also become a better poker player by learning and practicing the math of the game. Frequencies, EV estimation and other complex concepts can feel daunting at the beginning, but over time, they will be more ingrained in your poker brain.

Finally, don’t forget to keep up your physical fitness. It takes a lot of stamina to play well in poker, especially for long periods of time. Staying physically fit will improve your ability to concentrate and focus during a hand, which is critical to winning the game. The combination of these skills, along with a solid understanding of the game, will allow you to beat even the best luck-based hands in poker.