Expert: Chip Aki - 6/10/2008

Question
Hi Chip,

I just started bowling competitively for 4 or 5 months now. My biggest problem many people tell me is that when i release the ball my hand and fingers come around the ball instead of letting my fingers lift the ball. It feels more comfortable for my fingers and hand to come around the ball ala my favorite bowler PDW. I guess watching him for so long i kinda developed his release. My question, Is it wrong that my fingers and hand come around the side and another question is are there certain grips that i should be using in order to make the side release more effective? I currently have a power lift grip for my ring finger and semi grip for my middle finger.

Answer
The only thing I would say is that release may lessen your ability to handle all lane conditions.  Even Pete struggles at times with that type of release.  The most important thing you can do is pick a release and stay with it.  Just get as good as possible with it and then move on.  It sounds like you have already made that choice, so dont let anyone talk you out of it.
I think oval inserts would allow you to have a better feel for the ball.  Having said that, go with what feels best for you.  I used to use a lift in the ring and an oval in the middle, but have now settled on an oval in each.  Every person is a bit different.  As long as you dont have any hand trouble, stay with what you have.

Good luck,
Chip