How to Choose the Right Bowling Ball Weight

As with any sport, it's important to use the right equipment when you are bowling. This includes using the right bowling ball. Many amateur bowlers use a ball that is either too light or too heavy for them. Doing so can greatly affect your game and even lead to injury. Here is how to choose the right bowling ball weight.

Instructions

    • 1

      Use common sense when choosing a bowling ball. If you're a 160 pound man, the 8-pound bowling ball is probably not for you. The same can be said to the 90-pound woman trying to use a 16-pound ball. If you can barely lift the bowling ball with one arm, it's too heavy. If you can easily toss it as if it's a basketball, the bowling ball is probably too light.

    • 2

      Consider why type of bowler you are when choosing the right bowling ball weight. If you throw more of a straight ball, consider throwing a heavier ball in order to achieve more pin action. However, if you're a bowler who likes to put spin on the ball and even throw a curve, you should choose a lighter bowling ball. A lighter bowling ball is easier to curve than a heavier one.

    • 3

      Notice the roll of the bowling ball when you throw it. A bowling ball should have a natural roll to it on its trip towards the pins. If you find that you're getting a slight hang time on your throw, the bowling ball is probably too light for you. A sign that the ball is too heavy for you is that it drops prematurely during your throw.

    • 4

      Be aware of any pain you experience during or after bowling. Excessive pain in your wrist or elbow can be a sign that the bowling ball is too heavy for you. Shoulder pain can actually be a sign of both. If your shoulder is hurting, it could be because you're overthrowing your bowling ball due to it being too light for you.

    • 5

      Practice with several different bowling balls all weighing different amounts. The only way you'll know which weight is perfect for you is by trial and error. Once you find the ball that is both comfortable for your body and makes you an effective bowler, stick with that weight.