Bowling isn’t just about throwing the ball and hitting the pins. If it were so, then we’d all be professional bowlers! The best bowlers know that it’s important to get the grip, stance and address perfectly to achieve perfect scores – or at least, these three aspects contribute to it, a fact that accomplished bowlers at Brunswick will agree with.
Get the Right Grip
Comfort is the key in getting the right grip on the ball. Place your thumb in the ball’s thumb hole before getting your other fingers into the appropriate holes. Check that your thumb is as deep into the thumb hole but don’t force it – you should feel comfortable.
Your fingers should also rest naturally on the ball. The first joints of your third and middle fingers must extend approximately ¼ inch beyond the edge of the holes.
Don’t raise your thumb as you place your third and middle fingers into the holes. Crook your pinky finger to achieve three things: first, serve as a cushion for the ball; second, provide relief against strain on your fingers; and third, increase your throwing accuracy.
Your pinky finger is removed from play, so to speak, such that it won’t turn the ball during its release. Keep your wrist as firm as possible to prevent violent hooking; wear a wrist brace, if necessary.
Get the Right Stance, Too
When you have the right stance, you will achieve two crucial things. First, you will be able to determine the best starting position on the lane. Second, you will become ready in addressing your target.
Stand slightly behind the 12-foot marker. Your left foot should be slightly in front of your right foot while your toe should be on a direct line with the #3 pin.
Your left foot should never be to the left of the head pin while the ball should be supported by your left hand. Keep your eyes on the target and your shoulders parallel with the foul line.
Get Your Address Right
Don’t underestimate the importance of the address in your game. A single misstep here can cost you a game, perhaps a championship, because it’s impossible to make a correction when you and the ball are already in motion.
A few tips to keep in mind during the address:
- Keep your weight on your right foot.
- Lift the ball above your eye level before moving it to your right. At this point, your right arm should be close to and parallel to your side.
- Lean slightly forward as you lower the ball to its starting position. Shift your weight to your left foot.
Your right arm should be free to swing like a pendulum. The ball shouldn’t brush against your leg and it should be kept in an arc from the moment of its first motion to its point of release.