While many bowlers strive to obtain an arching hook that moves across the lane and into the pocket of the pins, there are times in bowling when such a shot is undesirable. If you are left with a spare that contains the 7 or 10 pin, a hook can be difficult to aim and may result in a gutter ball. The correct approach in these situations is to throw the ball straight down the lane at your target.
Step 1
Choose a ball that is heavy but can still be thrown with control. If you choose a light ball, it may be more inclined to deflect off the pins. Lighter balls are also easier to impart spin upon. Look for a ball that is made out of plastic if possible, as this material is less likely to produce spin when thrown because it grips the lane better.
Step 2
Stand so the foot opposite of your throwing hand is centered with the lane. Turn your body slightly so your shoulders are squared with your intended target. Hold the ball out perpendicular from your body with your upper arm at your side and your elbow bent at a 90-degree angle.
Step 3
Use the palm of your nonthrowing hand to support the ball from underneath in your starting position. Turn the ball with your throwing hand so your thumb points to 12 o’clock.
Step 4
Step forward with the foot on your throwing arm’s side as you begin your backswing. Step with your opposite foot and bring the ball fully back in a straight line. Begin to bring the ball forward with your next step. Add as much force to your forward swing as you can and without compromising your ball control. Complete your lead up by planting the foot opposite of your throwing arm just before the foul line. Allow your throwing arm to come to the fore as you complete your final step.
Step 5
Release the ball simultaneously with all of your fingers. If you pull your thumb out of the ball before your other two fingers, you are more likely to put spin on the ball and have it hook to the right or the left. By pulling your fingers out of the ball at the same time, the ball cannot be pushed in either direction and will roll forward in a straight line. The angle between the ball and the lane when you release should be such at the ball does not bounce, but smoothly begins to roll upon contact.
Step 6
Follow through with your throwing arm as you complete your throw. By pushing through the shot with your throwing arm, you are more likely to continue the ball on its intended trajectory than if you stop short at the moment you believe you release the ball.
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