Expert: Chip Aki - 10/1/2008

Question
Chip:  I am a new bowler (this is the beginning of my third year).  I just recently purchased a new ball.  I went from a plastic ball, no finger-tips (which was fit for me), to a better ball with the tips.  This ball is supposed to hook and I can't make it happen.  I have maintained the weight of the ball at 14 pounds.  I am a 125 pound woman who works out regularly, lifting weights, etc.  I am in great physical shape for 46 so this is why I think the pro suggested a heavier ball.  My average before the new ball was 140 but is dropping.  I am concerned that the ball is too heavy now since I have the tips but the pro who fit me said I was capable of this weight.  I don't feel fatigue after 3 games but notice some shoulder and wrist pain the day after.  I am not striking the ball and am slightly off on making my spares.

Could this new ball with the tips be too heavy now?  I can throw it between 13.5 and 15 mph for the 3 games but am disappointed in my new scores.  Last night, for example, I had a 97 (ugh) and then a 153 & 154.  I have been told my form is very good so other than practicing, is the ball possibly to blame for the drop in average?  I read your ball should be about 10% of your body weight.

Thanks for trying to help.  I am really frustrated....

Answer
Is the weight of the new ball the same as the old one?  What kind is the new ball?

I feel the best way to determine the correct ball weight is to place the ball in the palm of your hand with the elbow bent at 90 degrees.  If you can hold the ball there for about 20 seconds, you can probably use it.

One issue with going to the fingertip from the conventional is keeping the wrist straight and not letting it break.  Some bowlers need a wrist support until they get used to the new grip.  You might be able to try that.

I am assuming that by better you mean that this ball is a higher performance level than the plastic ball.  This will make spares more of a challenge until you get used the reaction of the new ball.  Also, all of the moves you were used to with the old ball have now changed.  It could be that as you get used to the new ball, your scores will improve.

If the ball is the same weight as the old one, and if it is fit properly, the fact that it is fingertip should not be an issue.

Good luck,
Chip