Three Types of Bowling Stances

The bowling stance is characterized by the ball's placement in the resting position. The bowling stance is primarily defined by individual comfort with small position changes executed by different bowlers. The primary concern is developing a consistent stance and bowling motion. The consistent stance helps you gain control and bowl high scores.

  1. Waist Position

    • The waist position is a low stance that begins with the ball near the waist. The position is a relaxed stance that requires minimal effort in the starting position. The waist position does require either a short rolling motion or an elongated motion where you raise the ball before rolling. The waist position is ideal for bowlers with natural power because the motion is typically shortened.

    Mid Level

    • The mid level stance begins with the ball between the waist and the face. The position holds the ball out from the body where the bowler can align the ball before rolling. The mid level position is common with straight and spin bowlers as it creates a smooth and natural motion. The mid level stance requires an energy increase in the starting position. The bowling motion is executed immediately after raising the ball to prevent shaking and strain during the shot.

    Face Position

    • The face position is the highest stance. The position holds the ball in front of the face at the starting point. The position requires little effort to hold as the ball is held close to the body. The ball position is typically held below the eyes to create a focused field of vision. The ball is pushed away from the body as the bowler progresses in the roll and the long motion generates high ball speed.

    Posture

    • The posture is consistent regardless of the ball position. The back is straight with the torso leaning slightly forward. The knees are slightly bent to create a power position and weight is also focused towards the ball of the foot. The foot position is adjusted to compensate for stride length but the feet remain shoulder width apart with the less dominant foot leading. You lead with the less dominant foot to balance the weight of the ball in the dominant hand.