Most bowling enthusiasts are aware that bowling professionals rely on spin in order to control the bowling ball as it rolls toward the pins. Even if you are a casual bowler, you may have noticed that it is possible to put spin on a bowling ball to achieve different movements. It can be a difficult technique to master, but it’s something that many bowlers can figure out with some practice.
Here, we will discuss exactly how to put spin on a bowling ball. There are a number of factors to consider before you can spin bowling balls, and it could take some time and effort. Here are tips and tricks for how to put spin on a bowling ball.
The Right Ball
You may not think too much about the type of bowling ball that you use, but you will have to if you are interested in understanding how to put spin on a bowling ball. First, you may find that it is easier to spin a lighter bowling ball. For those that don’t know, adult men are expected to use a 14-16 pound bowling ball, while adult women often use a 10-14 pound ball.
If you are wondering about general guidelines, many believe that a bowling ball should weigh about 10% of your body weight. The weight of the bowling ball will affect how you spin bowling balls, and it should be considered.
Keep Your Arm and Wrist Straight
If you want to spin bowling balls, it doesn’t involve using a particular angle using your arm or wrists. In fact, bowlers should keep their arm and wrist straight when exploring how to put spin on a bowling ball.
Grip the bowling ball and release it around the point of the laces of your forward-sliding shoe. If you time the release incorrectly, it will affect the way that the ball spins.
Thumb First
One of the rules to remember about how to put spin on a bowling ball is to realize that your thumb should be the first finger out of the ball. Why does it work this way? Well, your other fingers are actually what helps to spin bowling balls. If your thumb is out first, it means that a certain amount of “torque” is placed on the bowling ball.
What’s another point that should be made for those who are trying to understand how to spin a bowling ball? Bowlers should rotate their hand slightly right at the moment of release. Again, understanding how to spin bowling balls has a lot to do with timing. For those who are wondering about how much their hands should rotate – the answer is about 15%. If you are still unsure about what to do, consider the amount that you would rotate your hand for a standard handshake.
It will take some time, but once you learn that the thumb is first to leave the bowling ball – you can then figure out the “pocket” to target in terms of bowling pins. With the right amount of practice, you can spin bowling balls, and practice to the point where you get it down pat!
But first, you need to find a place to practice, right? Well, Stars and Strikes has got you covered! Not only can you come here to practice putting spin on a bowling ball, but you can also check out our arcade, play laser tag, eat great food, and more! Check out our website or give us a call at 678-965-5707.