QuestionGary,
I have recently changed from bowling right handed to left handed, the reason for this change was due to my approach, timing, release, general approach to the line being 100 times better than on my right hand. The only problem I am having now I have changed is that because I am doing everything a lot better I am also lifting the ball a lot better and putting far to many revs on the ball for the speed I am actually bowling it at.
My back swing is the same with both hands and although I had a lot of revs right handed I was able to throw it faster as my right arm is my stronger arm. I have tried to create a higher back swing but I'm having no luck, my current back swing is about half way to waist height. I would like to try and get it to waist height or maybe a bit higher, have you any advice that could help me?
Many Thanks
Chris
Answer
www.TrueBowlerAdjustme
Hi Chris, it is great you have had success with changing to the opposite hand. As far as the higher backswing goes, in my new bowling book I give you several adjustments you can make to get the ball further down the lane. The first adjustment that comes to mind is pretty simple.
In your beginning stance, you can "raise the height of the ball" just a little. This will help contribute to a "longer swing." With good timing, this will affording you the opportunity to project your ball further down lane.
You mentioned you are putting a lot of revs on the ball. Yet your speed is slow. With good revs it sounds like the ball is starting up too soon for you.
Your "swing" and your "feet" and the bowling ball "surface cover" influence ball speed and ball travel. In talking about your "feet" first.
To assist your swing, right or left handed, you need to consider instituting an increased tempo or an increased cadence into your delivery with your "feet." Per many publications including my book, you can influence ball speed and ball travel with an increased pace, cadence or tempo when combined with good timing. Sometimes that pace needs to be counted out physically, and then mentally to increase your speed. This combined with a higher starting ball position may get the ball further down lane.
Lastly, your bowling "ball cover." If your bowling ball cover is too gritty or "dull," 1000 grit or less, the ball will start hooking too soon because of your increased revs and the slowness of your delivery. At any pro shop they can raise the grit level or polished look of your ball cover to 2000, or even 4000 to extend the length of your ball travel.
Chris I must add, other factors that affect your ball travel include your release, the amount of oil on the lanes, the distance the oil is applied down lane which could be from 30 to 43 feet or more, and whether or not others have bowled on the lane prior to your arrival.
In summary: I presented three things to help you adjust to the lanes. Your swing, your feet and increasing the grit cover surface of your ball. Basically, you can raise the ball higher in the beginning. You can step to the line a little faster. Also, you can get the pro shop involved by making the surface of your ball a little slicker, so the ball will not grab as early.
Chris thank you for your question. I am smiling because I know you have some golden gems to work with now. Best of luck to you. Be well and bowl well!!!
