Expert: - 11/8/2011

Question
Hello Warren,

I'm practically new to the sport and very much a straight bowler. I wanted to learn how to hook the ball. A friend of mine advice me to try a "static" release, wherein my hand is at the 5 o'clock position from start to finish of the shot. Basically there is no movement in the wrist in this "technique".

I was just wondering how effective this technique is? How powerful is the hook using technique is or if you have any other tips for a simple way to hook the ball?

thanks
Newbie

Answer
Anthony,
Getting a feel for the axis tilt and axis rotation which creates hook is a step by step process. Starting with the hand position you mentioned, isolate the release point by doing a "one step" drill.

A One Step drill means, practice from a point just short of the foul line, put your body in a position to push into your slide and focus on ball release. Set-up to allow the ball to swing but don't move your feet, at the top of your backswing, feel the momentum moving forward and push into your slide. As you isolate on the last step, you can feel the point of delivery. Focus on hand/ball position and the rotation will be obvious as you release the ball. By repeating the One Step drill, you can gain the "feel" necessary to begin to position your hand, swing and slide consistently.

Once the correct position is locked into muscle memory, adding to the delivery is easier.

Thanks for the question newbie, I hope this helps. Let me know how you do.