Expert: Chip Aki - 7/1/2008

Question
hello chip i have a problem with my hand position during my backswing.on the way back my hand seems to close or get on the side of the ball and it stays there throughout my delivery. i want my hand behind the ball, how do i go about doing that? thanks

Answer
If you are right handed, try to point your thumb towards the right wall of the bowling center, or the higher end of the bowling center.  If that does not work, try to keep your thumb in the 1 oclock position throughout your backswing.  Think about rolling the ball off of your hand and dont even try to turn or lift it.  Trying to do too much with the ball to make it hook has a tendancy to make you turn the ball too soon.
I would also have someone watch you bowl so you can see if  your timing is not late.  Late timing can make you muscle the downswing and cause early turning of the ball.

Good luck,
Chip