How to Curve a Bowling Ball

Putting ‘spin’ or ‘curve’ on a bowling ball is easier than it might appear.

With these simple solutions to common spin problems, you can ensure that you do not fall victim to an over-turn or pumpkin again.

Choose the Right Bowling Ball

Before you even get to the lanes or try to curve a bowling ball, you should ensure that your ball is designed to spin.  Some balls are created to make straight lines, while others combat overly oily lanes.  To understand if your ball is made for appropriate spinning, review the material utilized to construct the ball:

· Plastic Balls – These are designed to perform in straight lines.

· Urethane Balls – Designed in the 1970s, these bowling balls give you decent hook.

· Reactive Resin Balls – In the 1990s, these bowling balls were created, giving bowlers greater grip and hook over the balls.

· Particle Balls – To combat oily lanes, these bowling balls are manufactured with both resin balls and small particles of glass, which improve lane grip.

Professional bowlers typically prefer particle bowling balls, as the material gives them greater control over the spin and hook.

Considering Custom Fingertip Drills

You should also ensure that your ball is drilled correctly for maximum spin.  Ideally, a ball that is drilled for your fingertips only, instead of your full finger, is the appropriate one for spinning.

Proper Spinning (or Curving) Form

As you approach the lane, look closely at the markings.  Your target should be the second arrow in from the outside edge of the lane that correlates with your bowling hand.  For example, if you are a right-handed bowler, then you should pick the second arrow from the right side of the lane.

When you are standing near the foul line, make sure your feet are relatively close together, and that your shoulders are squared – ideally, your shoulders should be at a 90 degree angle from your forearm.

When you start to swing, lean your body forward, and as your bowling ball comes around to the front of your body, put down your left foot.   Aim for your target arrow, and let your right leg swing naturally behind your left.  Make sure that when you release your ball, your palm faces upwards.  Practice this motion often, and you soon will be able to put curve your bowling ball in any game.

Solutions to Common Problems

When you first practice spinning your bowling ball, you may occasionally hit your ankle. Keep practicing, and ensure that your left foot is out of reach when you bring your ball forward.

Other times, you might not get any spin at all, and this may be because your thumb position is poor. You should place your index finger so that it points to your target arrow, and keep your thumb at the twelve o’clock position.  When you release the ball, release your thumb first and let your ball ‘fall’ or ‘roll’ off the rest of your fingers. The natural rotation inherent in the movement will aid in providing rotation to your ball.  In addition, keep your wrist straight.

And don’t forget to practice, practice, practice! The more you practice, the better you will become in curving your bowling ball.