Select the right ball
Before you can hold a bowling ball correctly, you need to select the right ball for you. Choose an appropriate weight and size. The ball should be comfortable to hold, and you should be able to release it smoothly without much effort. A bowling ball that is too heavy or too light can lead to bad throws and, ultimately, disappointments.
Finger Placement
Finger placement is crucial when holding a bowling ball. You will use your fingers to guide the ball as you bring it forward and let it roll down the lane. Depending on how comfortable you are, you can use either a conventional grip or fingertip grip. If you’re a beginner, I recommend starting with the conventional grip, as this is the easiest way to stabilize the ball.
The conventional grip means that you use your middle and ring fingers to slide into the ball’s holes, with your thumb in the other hole. The hand position for the conventional grip is relaxed, with fingers and thumb slightly spread apart to give the ball stability. If you have larger hands, you may need to use a fingertip grip.
In the fingertip grip, your fingers will only slide into the holes halfway, giving you more rotation control of the ball. You should rest the ball on your palm and put your fingertips in the holes. In this grip, your thumb should go all the way into the hole just above the fingers. The fingertip grip is best used by more experienced bowlers who have gained better control of their ball.
Wrist Position
The wrist position is another crucial factor in holding a bowling ball. If you hold the ball with a flat wrist, it will not give it the rotation needed to knock down pins, and it will not gain enough momentum as it goes down the lane.
Instead, hold the ball with a slightly cupped wrist. This position helps your hand roll behind the ball and provide it with the spinning energy it needs. When you release the ball, you should be able to feel the ball rolling over your fingertips and out of your hand.
Conclusion
Holding a bowling ball does not have to be complicated. Remember to choose a ball that is the right size, weight, and comfortable to hold. Use the correct finger placement and grip, depending on your experience level, to ensure that you can comfortably roll the ball down the lane.
Lastly, you should pay close attention to the wrist position when holding the ball. Remember to have a slightly cupped wrist, and this will help give your ball the extra push it needs to get down the lane. With these tips in mind, you are well on your way to achieving the perfect strike and enjoying the sport of bowling more!