Two-Handed Bowling Technique

Although it is relatively new to the game of bowling, the two-handed bowling technique has quickly gained momentum and has proven to be a valuable method for certain bowlers who find that using this technique gives them a competitive edge. There are pros and cons to the two-handed technique, which is suitable for both left and right handers.

  1. Benefits of the Two-Handed Technique

    • There are several ways that the two-handed bowling technique is more beneficial than the more common, single-handed technique. Because the ball is being supported by both hands, weight is more evenly distributed between both sides of the body, leading to less stress on the bowler's dominant shoulder. The weight is also spread between both hands, which can mean less bowling-related arthritis, calluses and soreness in the fingers, thumbs and knuckles.

    Drawbacks to the Two-Handed Technique

    • There are a few drawbacks to the two-handed bowling technique as well. Because of the different approach to the lane that bowlers using the two-handed technique use, more stress is placed on the knees. However, because there is less rotation at the knees involved in the two-handed technique, there is less of the grinding that single-handed bowlers may experience. Instead, rotation occurs in the trunk of the body, which can put more stress on the spine as a result. This can be alleviated with frequent stretching and flexibility exercises.

    How to Bowl Using the Two-Handed Technique

    • The two-handed bowling technique can be very similar to the single-handed technique. The bowler uses his dominant hand to cradle the ball, rearing straight back and following through when releasing the ball. With two-handed bowling, the bowler brings his other hand in front of the ball so the fingers face one another, and both hands are left on the ball while the bowler brings the ball straight back. The fingers can be either in the holes or out when two-handed bowling because both hands are supporting the weight of the ball.

    Choosing Single-Handed or Two-Handed

    • There is not a single best method for choosing between single-handed and two-handed bowling techniques. Bowlers who have used the single-handed style throughout their bowling career have switched to two-handed and significantly improved their game. Meanwhile, some bowlers may have used the two-handed approach from the start. The best way to know which approach is the right one for you is to try both and get a feel for which one you prefer.