Any handicapper that tells you differently is not giving you the straight skinny. Winning percentages change as often as I change my socks. What I have found as I age I don't need to change my socks as often. Go figure!
The truth is sports handicapping has become a science and so has poker. I actually cringe thinking about going H/U vs a young German or Scandinavian poker whiz. Who wouldn't be? Isildur or Fedor Holz... pick your poison!
The fact remains that there is $$$ to be made in both sports handicapping and poker for those that are willing to persevere. If you are willing to put in the work there is a CHANCE (albeit a small one) that you can turn a profit because most gamblers are lazy.
I don't begrudge any professional handicappers selling their wares. In fact, I encourage their input. Without guidance 99% of recreational gamblers are destined to fail. Maybe more. Honestly though, gambling is a losing proposition for the vast majority of us plain and simple. If you think differently you are fooling yourself.
I started betting on football cards in high school at the age of 14. I actually hit a 3 team parlay on my first football card wager for $5 ($30 due me!) I never collected that bet because the "book" had been mysteriously busted. Keep in mind that $30 back in that time would have fed an entire football team at Taco Bell or Burger King.
Oh how times have changed but not the odds. It's harder than ever to grind out a profit. Why? Because the books have the most astute cappers on the planet in their employ. Now there is "live wagering" at most sites. Do you think this is offered because they like to give $$$ away? I think not.
I'm not a chest beater but I turn a modest profit over the long haul because of my experience. When I say modest I mean just that. I wish I could show everyone reading this post a way to riches and happiness. The truth is their is no simple way to riches. You have to do the work to give yourself a chance at making a profit in any field. As far as happiness goes, there is no one way street to reach that goal. You see, happiness is the way!
Good Luck Handicappers!