Expert: Chip Aki - 3/9/2007

Question
I have experienced a very weird problem, (and embarrassing) about 3 times so far this year.  As I start my approach, on my backswing I've dropped the ball. It's like my grip just lets go.  I wear a wrist guard, but it seems by the 3rd game, my wrist tires and loses it's strength causing me to drop the ball on the approach.  Are there any wrist strengthening excerices or something to help me maintain my wrist strength throughout the night.  I do find also by the third game, my wrist does tire, causing me to also drop the ball on my follow through on the lane.  Any suggestions?  Maybe cause my work consists of alot of writing, I'm possibly getting carpal tunnel?  My ball is a Storm and it fits very nicely, its just my loss of strength it seems.

Answer
If it is a fatigue issue, you can do some grip stengthening excersizes and wrist curls, but it may be a fit issue and/or a timing issue.  Were you fitted for your ball with the wrist device on?  If not, you should have your fit checked with your wrist support on.  If your feet are ahead of your swing, you will have the tendancy to drop the ball on the downswing.  Have someone watch you and see if this is a problem as well.  You may need to start the ball into the swing a bit sooner.

Good luck,
Chip