How to Improve Your Bowling Technique to Bring Your Handicap Lower

Bowling, like many other sports, requires a lot a practice time be spent if you have any chance of conquering the game. There are a number of techniques that have to be mastered to improve your bowling scores, such as grip, approach, stance and release -- all of which must be done in a single fluid motion. Learning to improve your bowling technique to lower your handicap can be accomplished by making sure you have the technical aspects of your game in line and you are practicing whenever possible.

Instructions

    • 1

      Select the right ball for your style of play. If you throw a ball that has a lot of hook to it, you should go with a lighter ball so you can have more control on your rolls. If you roll more of a straight ball, you should play with a slightly heavier ball to generate more power when the ball strikes the pins (hook bowlers generate much of their power from the angle that the ball takes to the pins). Pick a ball that has comfortably spaced finger and thumb holes -- holes that are too large or too far apart can lower you score by resulting in dropped throws at the foul line.

    • 2

      Work on your approach. Determine whether you want to take a three-step or five-step approach. Ensure that your shoulders are square and that you are properly facing the pins. Keep this position as you approach the foul line, keeping your eyes on the pins at all times; the ball has a tendency to go in the direction you are looking.

    • 3

      Develop a good stance. Maintain an upright posture as you roll the ball, keeping your center of gravity low and as close to the floor as possible. Bend your knees as you release the ball to retain that low center of gravity and slide your plant foot forward close to the foul line without going over it.

    • 4

      Work on your release. Develop consistency for when your thumb exits the ball and how your fingers are positioned as they push the ball toward the pins. Ensure that you are releasing your thumb on the downward stroke right before you approach the foul line. Keep your fingers aligned properly for your style of bowling. For example, if you throw a hook, you should rotate your fingers about 2 inches, ending with a handshake-looking motion and your thumb pointing straight upward after your release. Have your thumb come out at a slight angle while the index, middle and ring fingers form a "W" shape that points toward the pins if you throw a straight ball.

    • 5

      Practice whenever possible. Contact your local bowling center to find out if they offer open bowling, which many do in the slow periods during daytime hours in the middle of the week. Use that time to work on the technical aspects of your game and practice your shot-making on both strikes and spares.