Expert: - 4/25/2008

Question
QUESTION: With all the advancements with oil patterns now a days.  Bowlers need to become more versitale than ever.  With that said my question is this.  As I have been bowling tournaments there is times now I have to play the deep inside track with very little swing.  My problem is that I keep getting the ball to the right.  When I do that it spells disaster.  Can you tell me any tips to keep the ball from getting out wide of target.  Oh by the way I have the same problem on the ten pins.  Ball keeps going into the gutter no matter what I do.  Please help.

ANSWER: Rob,
When bowlers play tournament lanes, occasionally they are to quick to move in as the shot breaks down. As you move in the ball may NOT read the oil in deeper and not, when skidding downlane, have enough strength of layout to be able to turn the corner hard enough. Obviously, changing your rev rate, slowing ball speed, etc. can help accomplish what is needed but not necessarily quickly enough (with out fishing around and fine tuning the adjustment).

I'm a big fan of equipping bowlers with balls to play their favorite line, but on lanes that are heavily oiled, medium and light or toasty dry. With options, as the lanes transition you can go to weaker balls and/or weaker layouts and still play near where you'd prefer (for awhile).

Often a tournament arsenal allowing you to play four different arrows may put you in a position where you are not as comfortable or as proficient (B game or C game). Or as the lane transitions, a small move, is too much for one ball but not big enough for the next stronger ball in your arsenal (because of surface, carrydown, lane topography, etc.). Often a stronger backend read and reaction (more hockey stick shaped > versus smooth arcy banana ) shaped) is needed. Stronger equipment might need specific layouts to compliment your ball speed, axis rotation, axis tilt, etc.

Do you throw a spare ball (smooth plastic/rubber/urethane)? Do you throw your strike ball at corner pins?

Thanks for the questions, I look forward to hearing back from you.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I do not throw a plastic ball at this time but that is going to change by the end of the week.  But still I have the problem where I send the ball out to far.  What problem I might be doing so I can try to correct it so I can jeep the ball in line.  The shot I have been playing makes you pay a price if you mise to the outside.  I cant wait to hear you insight on this.  Give me some advice on what balls and dril layouts I could use.. Thank you for your help.

ANSWER: Rob,
You may have an execution problem.

If you wrap your armswing, you may be pushing the ball right and not getting through the ball well. If you have a fairly straight armswing you should be able to stand near the gutter, parallel to the lane, and determine if your swing is in good shape.

Your physical size will determine where to stand but if you start about fifteen board with your left foot,(third dot from the right on the approach, at the setup), concentrate on throwing straight up the lane.  If the ball is going right off your hand, you need to work on your swing.



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: You are too good.  You hit the nail on the head with your answer.  But now how can I correct this problem.  I have been known to bend my elbow too much.  I have tried for years to correct this.  And still nothing.  What advice you have for getting my armswing straight nad getting right threw the ball.  Is keeping your arm close to your body will keep the swing str8 or is there more to it than that.  I cant wait to hear your answer

Answer
Rob,
Your elbow bend may indicate an excessive need for grip pressure. Can you insert your fingers and thumb fully into the ball (with the hand flat against the ball) and have it hang at your side with arm fully relaxed and still have the ball hang from your hand? If so...

Start in the same position as I suggested before. Place the ball in your starting position, then move the ball in front of your shoulder/arm pit.
Relax your setup by getting your arm/elbow back under the shoulder. You want the least muscle tension as possible (you can bowl longer and more consistently harnessing momentum and gravity).

Some adjustment of hand position may need to happen, but we'll worry about that later. Your swing should hinge to full extension of your arm.
So, instead of pushing out, place the ball to a spot out and down (remember to keep back straight and knees flexed).

I grabbed a graphic from the following .pdf file on the web. The info is originally from the Pure Approach Bowling Clinic organized by Del Warren, Track Inc. and Mo Pinel, MoRich Bowling. Check it out for a visual.

http://www.alansproshop.dk/images/TIPS 2.pdf

Thanks for the questions. Let me know about your fit. and if the suggestions get your swing where you want it.