How to Throw a Bowling Ball Straight

At first glance, bowling may seem like an easy sport to master. After throwing your first ball and watching it sail into the gutter, however, you probably realized that there's some skill involved. If you want to be a good bowler, you must learn how to throw a ball with enough force while hitting the center of the pins. The first step toward achieving that goal is learning how to keep your arm straight while it's in motion.

Instructions

    • 1

      Place your second and third fingers in the top two holes of the bowling ball and your thumb in the last hole.

    • 2

      Hold the bowling ball up to your chest with your thumb facing up at the 12 o'clock position as you approach the lane.

    • 3

      Ensure that the elbow of your throwing arm is touching your side. With your elbow pinned firmly, yet slightly loose, you'll be able to control your arm and keep it straight.

    • 4

      Extend your arm straight out toward the pins, with your thumb leading the way, when you're ready to throw the ball.

    • 5

      As you bring your arm downward, make sure that your thumb stays at the 12 o'clock position. Only extend your arm backward as far as it naturally wants to go. Don't force it to go any farther, as that will not add speed to your shot; it will only make it harder to keep your arm straight.

    • 6

      Swing your arm forward toward the pins with your elbow tucked in as much as possible. Release the ball at the mid-point of your swing -- with your thumb leading -- toward the pins.