Expert: Chip Aki - 6/3/2007

Question
QUESTION: What is the proper form for bowling a fingertip ball?  I just recently got a 14lb.
ball and it was drilled, as I asked him to, for a fingertip grip.  Now I know the
basic idea of how to throw a fingertip ball, but no matter what I do, it doesn't
spin correctly unless I just sort of throw it in my own made up style.  Since, I am
a beginner, I would like to know the exact step-by-step directions of how to
bowl a fingertip ball?  Thanks!

ANSWER: If you want to learn the best way to create hook with a fingertip ball it will take some time on your part.
During the swing, keep your thumb at a 1 oclock position and during the release, rotate your thumb to the 10 oclock position.  Try to keep a light pressure on the ball with your index finger.  Let the ball roll off of you hand and do not try to "hit"it with your fingers.  Once you master this, then you can work on cupping  your wrist a bit.

Good luck,
Chip

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: What should I do if all I keep getting to spin counterclockwise yet getting no
curve or hook? Like it's releasing with spin but it's spinning around the side
instead of over the top, essentially doing nothing.  I has the same effect of just
sitting the ball down and grabbing the sides and spinning it in circles. Does my
explanation make sense? If so, what should I do to fix it?
ANSWER: This means you are over rotating during the release.  If you could look at a clock, you need only a 2-3 hour rotation of your hand during the release to produce hook potential.  In this case, less rotation will create more hook potential.  All the revs in the world will not create much hook if the revs are not oriented correctly.

Chip

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Sorry to keep asking questions about this, but my hand keeps ending up on top
of the ball at release, is this because the ball is too heavy for me or my form is
off?  

Answer
I would suggest you find someone local to work with you.  It sounds like a timing or technique issue.  I would doubt if it is the ball weight.  You may want to try a wrist support, but that will not really affect the over rotation at the release.  It would help you keep the wrist firm though.

Good luck,
Chip