The Basics of Bowling: It All Boils Down to Ball Fitting

Wednesday, 13. April 2011

Learning the basics of bowling is never a difficult task. If one is eager to learn the basics of bowling, he can start by focusing on the selection of a ball the fits properly.

The first step in choosing the right bowling ball is determining if the ball feels right to the one who will use it. Many players opt to use the same ball whenever they bowl after they find they like. When they feel comfortable using a particular ball it affects their bowling performance.  The weight of the ball must be considered as it has a great impact on the bowlers balance. The ball should not be too heavy for the bowler’s size. If the bowler does not have balance, the performance may be less than desired. This is why it is important to choose a ball that is right for the weight of the bowler.

The fit of the ball should be the primary concern in the selection of a ball. The ball should follow the configuration of the bowler’s hands. The holes’ sizes and the distances between them should be in accordance with the normal grip of the bowler and may vary depending on which grip heshe may use.

Inserting a good portion of the finger in the holes will allow a better grip of the ball and is why it is important that the finger fit comfortably in the holes. However, the holes should not be too big for the fingers. An improper fit causes a tendency for the grip to be loose or the fingers to slide when swinging the ball.

The bowling ball is an important consideration when learning the bowling basics. The ball should perfectly fit the fingers to have a better grip of the ball. Having a better grip allows a better release and enhances the performance.

When a person knows how to choose a ball that is right for himher, then it is easier for himher to perform the moves and strategies needed. Bowling will never be difficult as long as heshe knows the basics of bowling, and chooses the right ball.

Equipment and Accessories for Bowling

Monday, 13. December 2010

Bowling is a very popular sport and a leisure activity. A person does not need to be a pro to enjoy this kind of sport. Over 50 million Americans are into bowling and more and more people around the world are becoming addicted to it.

Whether a professional bowler or not, it is recommended that you have the proper equipment and accessories before heading to the lanes. Here are some accessories that should be considered:

Bowling Balls

Bowling balls are the most important equipment in bowling. When buying bowling balls, some features should be considered. They are the weight, size of the ball holes, and whether the balls are designed for right-handed or left-handed persons. There are also three types of balls: beginner, intermediate and the advanced bowling balls. Kids may also buy bowling balls that are designed specifically for them. There are also bowling alleys that providerent bowling balls to players…

Bowling Shoes

Bowling shoes are also necessary in bowling. Bowling shoes are not just ordinary shoes; each shoe in the pair serves a purpose. One shoe is designed for better sliding while the other is for braking. Most bowling alleys providerent shoes to their customers. When choosing bowling shoes, it is important to consider the size. They should not be too loose or too tight on the feet. The bowler must be able to move comfortably.

Bowling Shirts

Like other sports, proper clothing is necessary and must be comfortable. Specially designed bowling shirts with collars are worn by professional bowlers. However, if the player is just an ordinary bowler, any regular shirt with collar will do as long as it fits comfortably and not be a distraction while bowling.

Bowling Gloves

Bowling gloves are very beneficial to bowlers. These are used to provide a better grip of the ball. Bowling gloves help players throw a ball accurately and with power. Gloves are helpful in supporting the wrist and making a smooth delivery possible.

Bowling Towels

Towels are important and used to wipe the oil residue from the balls. Towels may be improvised or there are special bowling towels available in sports supply stores.

Other accessories may also be considered like bags, face towels, wristbands and bowling ball cleaners and polishers. All these accessories are beneficial in providing mobility and comfort to bowlers. If one is interested in getting into the bowling lanes, then he may avail one of these accessories for his own.

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!

Bowling to the Top

Friday, 1. October 2010

In a lane, it’s just the player, the pins and the bowling ball. With proper practice, technique and the right equipment, that may turn into a strike.

Bowling has been around for centuries. It was first introduced in Egypt in 3200 BC. Through the years it has spread worldwide with various ways of playing, either indoor or outdoor.

The most popular type of bowling (often seen on television) is ten pin bowling. The surface for this game was originally made of wood but has changed to other materials that imitate the old flooring.

The one thing that has not changed is the bowling ball. It is not really shaped as a uniform sphere because there are holes drilled in it that are needed for the player to grip the ball before rolling it down the lane

The material used in making the bowling ball has changed. Originally, this was made out of wood. The most common balls now used in bowling alleys are made of hard rubber. They come in different weights so that players of all ages can play this game.

Customized balls are ones made according to the player’s specifications. Custom made balls are for serious bowlers, especially those who are in competitions. They come in different colors and designs. There are also those that are transparent which are painted in a way that makes it appear that there is a figure or an object inside the ball.

A bowling ball can be held in different ways. The first is called the conventional grip where the bowler’s middle and ring fingers are placed into the ball holes up to the second joint. The second is called the finger tip grip. Here, the middle and the ring fingers are placed in the holes up to the first joint. More effort is required by the latter, but it gives the player better control when the ball is released. The third is called the Sarge-Easter Grip. Again the middle and the ring fingers are used but unlike the other two, both fingers occupy one hole which works well with players with high “rev” rates.

The style used to hold and release the bowling ball varies among players. It is best to experiment with the different kinds of grips so that you know which one works best for you.

Bowling is an exciting sport that requires hand and eye coordination similar to basketball or football. Getting the right bowling ball will help the player feel comfortable – a step towards excelling in this game.