A guide to matched betting

If you’re a fan of sport, and sports betting, matched betting might be a term you’re familiar with. The term refers the method used by punters to steadily accumulate profits by essentially covering each potential outcome in a scenario in which there are only two possibilities.

For example, a tennis match is ideal for matched betting as there are only two possible outcomes - no draws. This enables punters to take advantage of the wide range of offers dished out by betting companies in the increasingly competitive marketplace, by pitting two bookmakers against one another.

This practice essentially removes any risk whatsoever and creates a certainty of victory out of what is usually a game of chance.

How exactly does this work?

Bookmakers routinely give away bonuses and free bets, but there is usually some sort of commitment required from the customer beforehand. For example, you’re often required to create an account to gain access to a sign-up bonus, or wager a set amount of your own money, say £10, to receive the same amount free.

For example, if a bookmaker is giving away £10 for any customer who bets £10 on a particular tennis match, If the odds are competitive, it would be possible to bet on Player A to win, whilst also betting against Player A with another betting company.

This would mean your original £10 is returned and you get your £10 bonus from the first bookmaker.

This does become slightly more complicated if bookies reserve their bonuses for new customers, however existing customers are routinely fed offers as well - or at least they should be - as a means of keeping them interested.

That said, serial winners sometimes experience restrictions being placed on their accounts, however there are legitimate ways to circumvent this without breaking any laws. It is worth noting that provided all gamblers are over the age of 18 then matched betting is completely legal.

How much can be made from matched betting?

Of course, the profits to be made from matched betting depend on how much time you can dedicate to it. Shopping around for offers doing the relevant sums in order to keep it absolutely risk-free can be a time-consuming exercise, so those who end up winning big are often required to commit large amounts of their time to carrying out matched betting properly.

There are numerous matched betting sites online which include interactive forums from people who share tips and stories regarding their profitability. These are usually a good place to start if you’re thinking of becoming involved in matched betting.

What do I need to start?

Again, the amount of equipment you’ll need in order to make a success of matched betting depends on how much you want to win and how much time you’re willing to dedicate to it.

There are plenty of reputable sites out there that can help you unlock potential winnings and you can even use a matched betting calculator to help you work out the ideal lay stakes.

Finally, video tutorials can provide extra clarity before you begin, and can help eliminate any gaps in your knowledge.