Live in-play betting, also known as in-game or in-running betting, is a type of betting that allows you to place bets on a sporting event as it happens in real time. This exciting and fast paced form of betting has become very popular in recent years, as it allows you to react to the changing conditions of a game or match and to capitalise on new opportunities as they arise.
In-play betting can be challenging for beginners, requiring a different approach and mindset than traditional pre-game betting. This series of articles will provide a step-by-step guide to live in-play betting for beginners, covering everything you need to get started and help increase your chances of success. We also address some key considerations and potential risks while providing tips and strategies for maximising profits.
How does live in-play betting work?
Live in-play betting lets you bet on a match as it’s ongoing rather than before it begins, so while a game or match is in progress and in real-time, you can potentially capitalise on new betting opportunities as they arise.
To place a live in-play bet, you need an account with an online bookmaker that offers this type of betting; 99% of bookmakers do. Most bookmakers will have a dedicated page for in-play betting, which will list the available sports and events currently open for betting. From here, you will find betting options and be able to select the bets that you want to place.
A wide range of betting markets and options are available (which we will go through in another article). The specific options and markets will depend on the sport and event you plan to bet on, as well as the rules and regulations of the bookmaker.
One key benefit of live in-play betting is the ability to grab the opportunity to the match conditions in real time. For example, if a key player gets injured in a football match, the odds and betting options for that match will probably change, which in turn will provide new betting opportunities. Similarly, if a team falls behind early in a basketball game, the odds may shift in favour of the opposing team.
By analysing and reacting to these changing conditions, you can find value and increase your chances of success.
What are the risks of in-play betting?
While live in-play betting can be thrilling and potentially lucrative, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and drawbacks.
Some of the key risks include the following:
- Speed and complexity: In-play betting involves a fast-paced and dynamic environment. With such a wide range of betting options and markets available at any given time can be overwhelming for beginners, and it can take time to keep track of all the available options and make informed betting decisions in real-time.
- Emotional involvement: It is easy to get caught up in the excitement of in-play betting, and this can lead to emotional decision-making and poor judgment. Betting with your emotions IS dangerous, as it can lead to impulsive and reckless bets.
- Limited time: Live in-play betting involves a narrow window of opportunity. As bets can only be placed while the event is happening, this creates pressure to make quick decisions and making mistakes or bad bets are easily done. A cool head is needed.
- Limited research: In many cases, it may not be possible to conduct extensive study or analysis before placing a bet, which can increase the risk of making poorly informed or uneducated bets.
You can mitigate these risks and increase your chances of success. For example, you can practice discipline and bankroll management to avoid overloading your bets and risking too much of your bankroll. You can also set clear betting goals and adhere to a well-thought-out betting plan to help ensure that you are making informed and calculated betting decisions.
Maintaining control and discipline is a must!
Control and discipline are crucial for success in live in-play betting. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment.
Setting clear betting goals and adhering to a well-thought-out betting plan is essential. This IS needed to ensure that you make informed and calculated betting decisions rather than impulse bets.
Practice bankroll management by setting limits on how much you are willing to bet (or possibly LOSE) per event and day, and avoid the temptation to chase losses or over-extend your bankroll.
Stay focused and avoid distractions that can impact your decision-making, such as avoiding alcohol! Taking breaks and stepping away when necessary to recharge and refocus is also important, as betting can be emotionally and mentally draining. Taking breaks and maintaining a clear and focused mind can increase your chances of making informed and successful betting decisions.
Betting in-play is not all doom and gloom
Live in-play betting is an exciting and potentially profitable form of betting, but as said does have risks.
Understanding the basics and following the steps outlined in this article can increase your chances and minimise your risk of losses. However, it is important to remember that live in-play betting is only for some and may only be suitable for some situations.
Now that you better understand the basics of live in-play betting, you may wonder whether this is right for you. In the next article, “The benefits and drawbacks of live in-play betting“, we’ll delve deeper into the pros and cons and help you decide whether it’s a good fit for your betting style and goals.