Safe, Secure, Established: The Largest Tournament Schedule, Welcome Bonus, and Fastest Withdrawals – Since 2001
Online Since 2001

What Does Shove Mean in Poker?

Home » Poker Terms » What Does Shove Mean in Poker?

Shove

What Does Shove Mean in Poker?

Shove: A poker term used to describe the action of going all-in, betting all of one’s chips in a single move. You can play poker online to experience different strategies.

When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Shove

In high-pressure situations during tournaments where players are short-stacked and need to make a decisive move. It’s also common in cash games when players want to apply maximum pressure.

In-Game Example

You’re in a late-stage tournament with 10 big blinds remaining. Holding AK, you decide to shove preflop from the button to maximize fold equity and potential chip accumulation.

Strategy / Tips

  • Best Practice: Use a shove to apply pressure when you believe your opponent’s range is weak or when you have a strong hand.
  • Common Mistake: Shoving too often or in situations where you have little fold equity.
  • Pro Tips: Recognize when opponents are likely to fold marginal hands. Shoving can be more effective in live games where physical tells can influence decisions.

Differences Playing Over the Table vs Online

In live poker, physical tells can affect shoving decisions, whereas online, players rely more on timing tells and betting patterns.

Alternative Names

“Jam”, “Push”

FAQs

  • Q: When should I consider shoving?
    A: Consider shoving when your stack is short relative to the blinds, and you want to maximize your chance of either doubling up or applying pressure to opponents.
  • Q: Is shoving a viable strategy in cash games?
    A: Yes, especially when you have a strong hand and want to maximize value or when you believe your opponent’s range is weak.

Related Terms

Fold Equity, Bluff

Select the software version that is right for your Mac

How to find my chip architecture?