Expert: Chip Aki - 9/21/2006

Question
I just started bowling maybe 2 months ago. My average went from low 90's to 125's when i took a little time and figured out how to throw a descent straight ball after a week or 2.  I quickly read up on the subjects and releasized i would get much more pin action with a hook. Now i average a 150-160 and i'm quite happy with my progress after only a few weeks of bowling but the only problem is i hook with my two middle fingers only, no thumb.  I let the ball rest on my forarm.  I know i need to work on a three  finger hook and i understand the concept of the release, but everytime i try it i end up throwing a helicopter (still works sometimes).  Any tips on going from a forarm hook to a true three finger hook?

Answer
It sounds like you  are over rotating when you try and throw the ball with your thumb.  The important thing is to try and learn to roll the ball first.  Try to keep your thumb at the 1 oclock position (if you are right handed) and then rotate your thumb to 11 oclock while releasing the ball.  Once you get that down, you can increase the cupping action of your wrist, much like you do when you dont use your thumb.

Good luck,
Chip