Experienced bowlers at Main Event are as conscious of their feet movements as of their arm movements for good reasons. Getting the right stepping from the approach to the release will increase the chances of getting strikes and, thus, perfect scores.
First Step
Getting the simultaneous foot and arm movements required in the first step takes practice. After a few practice, fortunately, you can build up muscle memory and it comes naturally; mindfulness about where your feet and arms are in space is still a must.
- Push the ball straight ahead while also simultaneously shuffling forward onto your right foot.
- Strive to move forward in a near-perfect, if not perfectly, straight line.
Keep your left hand on the ball during the first step. This is necessary to relieve strain while the ball is still in your right hand, as well as aid in pushing away the ball and keeping it in an arc during the release.
Second Step
At the start of your second step, your pendulum arm should remain bent so that you will achieve a controlled backswing. The ball should also start its backward arc when you begin your second step.
Keep in mind that your arm should swing free, so to speak. You aren’t pushing the ball at this stage.
Third Step
When your second step end, your left arm should move out so that you can maintain your balance. Your second step should also end on your left foot.
At this point, your right arm should continue with its backward swing. Be sure to maintain your right arm’s backward swing and pendulum motion. Your body should have slightly leaned forward and your speed also slightly accelerates.
Your right foot should be forward at the end of your third step while the ball is at the top of its backswing. Your wrist should still be in the same position instead of turning.
Fourth Step
From the first to the third steps, you have created and stored power in your body and limbs. For the fourth step, you should release it.
At this point, you should be conscious of two things: First, your weight is on your right foot; and second, your left foot and right arm have also moved forward at the same time.
During the slide, you should shift some of your weight to the ball of your left foot while your right foot carries most of it. Your right foot should push your body forward while your left foot slides.
Your weight is gradually taken by your left foot while your right foot acts as your balance. Your left foot should be on the same boar when you addressed your target.
Do these steps sound complicated? They shouldn’t be with practice and more practice!