How to Hold a Bowling Ball

How to Hold a Bowling Ball
Photo Credit The Bowling image by Nikolay Kapustin from Fotolia.com

Bowling has ancient roots, with bowling pins and balls found in the tomb of an Egyptian king buried in 5200 B.C., according to the Professional Bowlers Association. Today, the game's simple rules allow it to be accessible to nearly everyone. Bowling balls have either two or three holes, although three-hole models are the most common type. Two basic grips can be used--the conventional and fingertip grips. With both grips, the ball is held the same way, but the fingers are inserted into the ball at different depths, according to the Bowling Coach website.

Step 1

Position the bowling ball with the holes facing upward on a steady surface such as a ball rack, ball return or ball stand. The two holes should be at the top of the ball, with the single hole at the bottom.

Step 2

Insert your middle finger and your ring finger in the two side-by-side holes. If using the conventional grip, insert the fingers up to the second knuckle. If you want to try a fingertip grip, stick only the tips of the fingers in the holes, up to the first knuckle.

Step 3

Insert your thumb in the remaining hole.

Step 4

Lift the ball, gripping the ball tightly with the fingers you have inserted in the holes.

Step 5

Position your hand so your wrist is facing upward and the back of your hand is facing the ground. Use your free hand to support your wrist and hand to steady the ball. You are now ready to bowl once in this position.

Tips and Warnings

  • Regulation bowling balls weigh at least 10 pounds, although smaller balls are available for children. The general guideline is that the ball should weight 10 percent of your body weight, according to the Bowling Coach. Ball sizes generally top out at about 18 pounds. A regulation bowling ball must have a solid composition, and it's circumference cannot exceed 27 inches, according to the Professional Bowlers Association.

References

Article reviewed by Alva Dane Last updated on: Jul 22, 2010

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