Bankroll Management

The golden rule of professionals: manage your capital to survive losing runs and maximise ROI.

What is a bankroll?

Your bankroll is the capital dedicated exclusively to sports betting. Golden rule: never use money you cannot afford to lose. Set a monthly budget and stick to it. This mental discipline is the foundation of profitable betting.

The 1–5% rule

Never bet more than 1 to 5% of your total bankroll on a single bet. If your bankroll is £500, your maximum stake per bet is £25 (5%). This rule protects you from losing streaks — even 10 consecutive losses won't wipe you out.

Flat staking vs proportional staking

Flat staking: always the same amount (e.g. £10 per bet). Simple and disciplined. Proportional staking: a fixed percentage of your current bankroll — the stake grows when you win and shrinks when you lose. More effective in the long run.

The Kelly Criterion

A mathematical formula optimising the stake based on your estimated edge: Kelly Stake = (p × b − q) / b, where p = estimated probability of winning, q = 1−p, b = net odds. Effective for advanced bettors who accurately estimate their own probabilities.

Keeping a betting log

Record every bet: date, match, type, odds, stake, result, ROI. After at least 100 bets, analyse your performance by bet type, competition and bookmaker. You'll discover your strengths and weaknesses to improve.

Psychological rules

Never "chase" a loss by increasing stakes. Never bet under the influence of emotions (frustration, euphoria). Set daily win AND loss limits. Discipline is more important than talent in betting.