Expert: Chip Aki - 1/13/2009

Question
I had trouble holding the ball due to tendonitis I got in my right arm. I changed my grip a bit and my are got stronger and the pain went away. No I find I squeeze the ball to hard, especially when under pressure.  Do I need the ball re drilled??  Are there drills I can do to eliminate this??

Answer
If you want to learn to not squeeze the ball, you have two ways to accomplish it.
One way is to decrease the bevel you use on the holes, especially the thumb hole.
The other way is to slowly tighten the thumb hole by using tape.  Add a piece of tape during your practice session every few frames.  As the hole gets tighter, you will have to relaxe more.  Once you get to the point you cannot get out of the ball, take one piece of tape out and you now have your best starting thumb hole.  Even when drilling the hole, it would be best to have to add a piece of tape or two to get to this perfect fit so you can adjust it as your hand swells or shrinks.

Good luck,
Chip