Expert: - 4/8/2009

Question
I have been bowling since I was 7 and have recently been able to raise my average to 200. However, I have always had a low tracking release. I have recently seen a video of me bowling and I think I have isolated the problem to my arm swing. As the arm is coming down my shoulder appears to roll and allow the elbow to slightly come away from the body allowing the hand to come to the right of the ball prior to the proper release point. What do you suggest to work on correcting this problem?

Answer
Bill,
How does the ball fit? If your armswing is not relaxed and straight, you may be bumping the swing out or in, to allow the muscle tension that you need to hold onto the ball.

Most low track players are overturning the ball in an effort to hook it more, or just grabbing it because of fit issues. I'd suggest first, to check your fit.

If the ball doesn't hang comfortably in your hand when arm and hand are relaxed at your side, some part of your pushaway and swing are muscled.
Change the fit. You can add some lateral pitch (in the direction away from your palm for all the holes) to help you stay behind the ball, too.

Let me know if this is the problem. Good luck and good bowling.