CHOOSING THE RIGHT BOWLING BALL
Bowling balls come in a range of weights - finding the right one will ensure you get the most from your game. Balls weights vary from 6 to 16 pounds; when you're learning, it's worth taking a few minutes to find the right ball. Here are some tips:
- Correct Weight: Children and seniors generally use a 6 pound ball, women use those between 10 and 14 pounds, and men those between 14 to 16 pounds. Of course, it all depends on what feels right, so make sure you test a few before picking your winning ball.
- Perfect Fit: The three holes in a bowling ball are for your thumb, middle and ring fingers. Your thumb and fingers should fit comfortably, ensuring you can smoothly release the ball without any 'grip'.
Picking up the ball: Pick the ball up and turn it over so the weight rests on the heel of your hand. Help support the weight with your other hand. If you have picked the right ball, your palm should be in full contact with the ball and your fingers comfortably in the holes, without straining. Try a practice swing to make sure you've got the right fit.
CORRECT STANCE
When you start bowling, it's important to consider your stance and posture: how you are placed at the start of the lane will affect how your ball reaches the pins. Here are a few tips:
- Stand facing the lane, with your shoulders square to the pins.
- Place your thumb and fingers in the holes and hold the ball at the pit of your stomach. This is a good height from which to begin your approach to the line.
- Point your thumb toward the pins. If you are right-handed, the ball should be positioned to your right side; the opposite if you're left-handed. Your elbow should be at 90 degrees.
- Bend your knees slightly, but keep your torso and shoulders vertical. Your bowling ball is now in the perfect position for a good approach.
APPROACH AND DELIVERY
There are several methods bowlers use to approach the foul line; practice will help you find the one that suits you best. The four-step approach is the most common and allows a smooth and easy approach. Here's how it's done:
- If you're right-handed, your first step is with your right foot; if you're left-handed, then it's left foot first.
- The four steps should be small, almost a shuffle.
- With your first step, begin to swing your arm, and the ball, back in a pendulum action alongside your body.
- At your second step, your arm should be at the lowest point of its swing, down beside your body.
- Your third step is when you increase acceleration, bending forward a little with the ball at its highest point behind you. Remember that the ball should go no higher than your shoulder.
- With your fourth and final step, slide your foot. Bend your knee (left knee if you're right-handed, right knee if you're left-handed) as you slide - this is your shock absorber.
- As you slide, let your ball swing forward, keeping your body square to the pins.
- But remember, don't cross the foul line the lanes are very slippery.
RELEASE AND FOLLOW THROUGH
This is where all your careful preparation pays off! The most important thing is to let the ball flow naturally from your fingers. Here are some tips for a perfect finish:
- When the ball is at its lowest point in front of you, and your foot reaches the line, it's time to let go: your thumb will slide out first, then your fingers.
- Your arm continues its swing, upward and forward - all you have to do is give the ball a little squeeze with your fingers as it goes on its way.
- It's perfectly acceptable to lift your back foot from the boards a little, to help you balance.
