AboutChip Aki Expertise Ball drilling/fitting, Layouts, coaching related questions, any. USA Bowling Bronze Certified Coach, International Bowling Pro Shops and Instructors Assocation member, 15 years Experience in ball drilling, Storm Staff member.
Experience Team USA State Champion Indiana'87 and Lousiana '97, National Collegiate Championship Wichita State '87, Ky state Singles Champion '99,Team USA National Finalist '97,'98, USBC Open Singles Champion 2007 (814 series)
Expert: Chip Aki Date: 5/8/2008 Subject: How long before changing to a fingertrip and learning to hook?
Question As a new bowler who started bowling at least once a week and purchasing his first ball.
Is there an approximate amount of time before changing to a fingertrip grip from a conventional and learning to hook?
I hear that a 140-150 average is a good time to consider making the change, if that is the case then I'm still 10-15 pins short.
Answer If you are wanting to learn and wanting to spend the time to learn, now is the time. It is easier to learn proper technique with a fingertip. The most important thing is to make sure you go to a reputable pro shop to have the ball fitted. I would suggest taking your ball now and converting it. Down the road, you could then upgrade to a higher performance type of ball as you get more consistant with your release.
I feel most people using a conventional grip tend to want to over rotate in trying to create hook. A fingertip will allow you to roll the ball off of your hand to create hook. The most important aspect of the finger tip grip is a firm wrist position. Firm, but not cupped. If needed, a wrist support can be used.
