Delivering Hook Techniques in Bowling

Sunday, 28. November 2010

Bowling is a sport and leisure activity that involves creativity and discipline. To be able to perform well, one should be familiar with the different movements and techniques in bowling.

Bowling has been a sport for many centuries. As the years passed changes evolved and modern bowlers are now able to execute different techniques and strategies. They have started making movements that create sharp angles to the pocket that are able to hit the pins with maximum energy.

With the variety of modern balls available, bowlers are able to create styles that help them hook the balls. Bowling balls that are designed today are able to provide stronger and better hooking capacity.

Here are some tips to help in learning the hook techniques:

1.    It is necessary to choose the right ball. The size and weight of the ball should be perfect for the body and capacity of the bowler so that he can execute properly. If the ball is not right, then it will not get to the target.

2.    A good grip of the ball is essential. He needs to hold the ball with the two fingers of his dominant hand – if he is left-handed, then he can handle the ball with his left hand and vise versa. Other players will tuck their “pinky” finger under the ball to add force and support when releasing it.

3.    The player needs to focus on the lane and concentrate where he wants it to cross. He can make use of the arrow markings of the lane to help him visualize where he would like the ball to roll.

4.    Perfect timing for the release is needed. He can take four steps making the third step a half step. This will insure that he gets the right position. While doing the steps, the player will swing the ball at the same time he is stepping and then release the ball at the exact time the ankle touches the ground once he starts sliding. The ball should be released at the end of the slide.

5.    The last step is the swinging and releasing of the ball. If the player would like to execute the hook, then he should make the ball rotate while it is rolling down the lane. This is done by bending the elbow while swinging and then straightening it at the time of the release.

When practicing the hook technique for the first time, the bowler should take extra care to prevent injuries. Beginners are advised to practice with an experienced bowler so that they may be taught of the proper movements and execution.

Crawler in Bowling

Saturday, 20. November 2010

In bowling bad shots may happen. A crawler is when the ball does not hit the center pin. This may be improved by adjusting the delivery of the ball. Bowling involves many repetitions. The repetition of the delivery of the ball can help in hitting the right target and executing the right movements.

Here are some tips for a better delivery of the ball:

1.    Having a relaxed grip of the ball is very important in making the arm flow freely when swinging. This will help in overcoming the fear of dropping the ball. The fingers should be always be relaxed when delivering (swinging) the ball.

2.    It is also recommended that a bowler learn the different styles and techniques of bowling. This will help him get used to the movements and find out which styles are effective for him in hitting all the pins.

3.    A bowler should be able to estimate his timing. The regular timing should be different from the spare timing – this will help him determine which timing is more effective for him. If he sticks to the normal timing only, he will not be able to determine whether the faster or slower timing caused a bad shot.

4.    The player should learn to adjust to different conditions. Bowling is a mental game. Coping with different conditions is one way of exhibiting this skill. The player should be sensitive to different factors such as the balls, movements, players and even the condition of the lanes. Being observant will help him be creative with his movements.

5.    It is essential to always keep an eye on the target. He must focus on the target from start to finish. Losing focus will cause inconsistencies and a bad performance.

6.    Practice makes perfect. A beginner should practice often if he would like to excel in bowling. Bowling requires the players to master many movements and styles. It is only through continuous practice that one can master the game of repetition.

There may be good and bad moves in bowling, but that do not mean that a bad performance will limit a person. As long as people enjoy bowling and have a great time whether they are beginners or pros, then there is no reason to be afraid.

Choosing Your Bowling Gear

Friday, 12. November 2010

Bowling is a fun sport and it should be. Although it’s a sport which was initially not meant to be played by everyone, choosing the right kinds of gears makes it possible for almost all people to enjoy the game.

Choosing the right bowling gear can elevate one’s game if he is serious about bowling. One can actually play the game without going through the hassle of buying and bringing his own gear, but it’s so much better to play with your own gear. It’s like playing a guitar, once you buy a guitar and you get used to it and the same is true of bowling.

Here are some of the essential bowling gears which one must have to step up his bowling game:

Ball

A serious bowler must have his own bowling balls. Bowling balls differ in weight, which is probably one of the most important things to consider when choosing a bowling ball. The general rule in bowling is that a person can use a ball which weights 10% of his total body weight. This means that a person who weights 140 pounds can use a ball which weights up to 14 pounds.

In choosing a bowling ball, one must also assess the comfort that it brings to the hand and the wrist, the right distance of the finger holes, and the general feel of the ball.

Shoes

Some people may find bowling shoes funny-looking, however, they are very important in bowling. The right kind and size of bowling shoes allows the bowler to concentrate more the game and less on the little irritating details that come along with rented shoes from the alley.

Bag

Bowling bags should be bought if one desires the convenience they bring. Today’s bowling bags can accommodate more than one bowling ball and the other accessories that might be needed.

Wrist supports

Not all bowlers use wrist supports but they do help in training the wrist to perform the correct release of the ball with the right position.

Buying essential bowling gear is important if a player wants to move up to another level. Gear refers to the tools which you use to be able to achieve a better style of play or simply to train yourself to play properly…

Choosing the Right Gear for Bowling Fun

Thursday, 4. November 2010

Before learning how to play the game, a bowler will need to identify the equipment needed and know how to use it. They should know where to find the necessary equipment, select the right shoe size, choose the right weight of ball to be used, wear comfortable clothing appropriate for the game, and return the equipment to the proper place after the game.

The bowling ball selected must be of the proper weight and grip; the player’s finger size and the space between holes are essential for comfort. Most players use the conventional grip (used in bowling alleys), after fitting the two middle fingers and thumb in the holes, they must test its fit by swinging the ball lightly. Amateurs can find equipment at bowling centers where they can use the equipment for free. However, for advanced and intermediate players, they will want to purchase their own equipment. These players use the Semi-fingertip grips where the thumb and the fore fingers are inserted into the ball’s holes

The usual weight of the ball is approximately 14 to 16 lbs. for males and 10 to 14 lbs. for females. Young players are given the 4 to 6 lb. balls. The swing indicates whether or not the weight of the ball is appropriate for a player. If not, it will cause the shoulder to dip and the player to be out of balance. If the swing causes lofting, it could be too light. The speed of the ball when it is released can also show if it fits the player. Bowling instructors advise professional bowlers to have their own bowling ball which is drilled especially to fit the player’s fingers for consistency and comfort. As with any other sport, strength and physical fitness must be taken into consideration before playing the game.

Aside from the ball, players will need a few other things:

- Bowling shoes – these are designed to allow the player to slide on either foot. The left shoe has a sole that allows the right-handed player to use the five-step approach and vice versa;

- A bowling bag for the ball;

- A rosin bag, which is used by the players to insure that the hands are kept dry; and

- A bowling towel, to get rid of oil and dirt.

To practice, players must make sure that the proper equipment is pre-ordered or reserved to ensure proper hand fit and weight. Ask for assistance from the pro shop staff at the local bowling centers when choosing your equipment. Some bowling centers just charge per game and lend the equipment for free while others rent the equipment. In the long run, when budget permits, confidence is gained when a player owns his equipment. Have fun bowling!