Expert: Warren Friedl, Pro Shop Owner/Operator, - 6/5/2009

Question
I am new to bowling, I have a 10lb White Dot, I throw pretty straight. Throwing conventionally (bringing hand up like you are shaking hands) I wasn't very consistent and usually ended up crossing in front of my body. I would come home with my two fingers and my elbow hurting. Well, finally I just decided to let my arm do what felt comfortable, and I wound up holding my ball in the normal thumb at o'clock fingers at 10 and 11, as I drop it down, I let my arm fall naturally (for me)and when I go to release, my thumb is at 6 o'clock and fingers are at 12 and 1. It causes my ball to spin backwards down the alley until about 3 feet in front of the pins it stops spinning slides for a foot then spins forward into the pins.
Given my bowling technique is there anything you would recommend to perfect my technique or improve it?

Thank You in advance for any advice or guidance you can offer.

Sincerely,
Marilyn

Answer
Marilyn,
Pressure in your hand using the former ball position doesn't sound right. Check with your ball driller about the pain caused by the fit and have them suggest adjustments. Urge them to fix the ball (at no charge), if you feel comfortable with their explanation of what is happening. Please let me know what changes are made.

Your fit is the problem, but a 10lb ball also could be too light and you are muscling it around also causing problems.

If you can forward me your fit information, I can evaluate what might cause your problem.

Thanks for the question.