Expert: Susie Minshew - 8/16/2009

Question
I have been practicing my bowling, and every time I release the ball it hurts my middle finger bad, is my ball not drilled right, I use to throw a straight ball, now I am learning how to hook the ball, could that be it.I can't seem to hold the ball right, I need advice. Patsy

Answer
Hi, Patsy!

This is really a serious issue. Bowling is a non-combat sport and is not supposed to hurt!

It is very likely that your fit needs to be adjusted. Find an IBPSIA (International Bowling Pro Shops and Instructors Association) shop in your area. You can search on ibpsia.com. The Pro Shop Dude can check to be sure the fit is okay. If it's not, let them fix it. If it is okay (which I doubt), the issue would have to be technique. Then it's get-a-coach time.

If you have a conventional grip (your fingers go in to the second knuckle), it is unlikely you will ever hook the ball and trying to do so with this type of grip can hurt your hand. Get to that IBPSIA Dude or Dudess and let them either adjust your conventional grip or fit your ball for a fingertip grip. That will give you a lot more control. Then get a coach for a few lessons so you can learn how to consistently exit your better fit with no pain. Good luck!