Beginners and veterans in bowling can be guilty of the same sin: Overlooking two or more aspects of their throw, whether due to ignorance or complacency. Such sin of omission or commission depending on the oversight can cost a game, perhaps a tournament title.
Equipment
Always wear the appropriate bowling gear from the clothes, shoes and wrist brace to the ball. If possible, get customized strike and spare balls so that these are suitable for your skill level, style and strengths. If isn’t possible yet, ask the staff at Main Event for assistance.
Hand and Wrist Position
Strength in your hand and wrist all throughout the throw is a must for consistent shots. Keep in mind the techniques that will contribute to your successful shots, such as assuming a handshake position during the release when you’re throwing a hook. But if you’re throwing a straight ball, it makes sense to keep your wrist and hand in a straight position until the release.
Starting Spot
Choose the starting position for your strike shot, or the first ball in every frame, and stick to it. This isn’t about being predictable but about being consistent, a crucial aspect in hitting strikes most of the time. Experiment with the spot, if you must.
Approach
Be as clean and consistent in your approach every time. With the approach, you’re basically putting all the parts of the throw into it – hand and wrist position, grip, timing, power, and speed. The better your approach, the better your throw so practice until your approach is perfect.
Timing
Basically, every step of your foot corresponds with a specific movement in your arm, shoulder and hand, a coordinated effort that requires plenty of practice.
Ball Speed
Every player will have to find the right ball speed for his style and strengths with the main goal being to get a strike. The ideal speed, however, is 16 miles/hour but it can be slower or faster.
Target on the Lane
The marks, such as the arrows, range finders, and indicator dots, are there for a reason. Use them to keep your eyes on the target and, again, get a strike.
Breakpoint
It’s important to establish a breakpoint early on. Remember that if your hook shot isn’t on target, specifically in hitting the right spot to sink the pocket, you’re not getting any strike.
Pin Action
Strength, speed and angles are co-dependent in the sense that get one of them wrong and, again, a strike shot is out of the question. Don’t forget to consider where and when the ball will hit the pin and adjust your shot accordingly.
Follow-through
Even after releasing the ball, your entire body from your head to your feet should be in the right follow-through position. It matters, trust us.