How to Release a Bowling Ball

Perhaps the most important aspect of a bowler's motion is the release. No matter how perfect your form, you'll never reach 300 without a consistent release. There are 3 basic release techniques: underhand, hook and backup roll.

Instructions

    • 1

      Learn the 3 types of release techniques (underhand, hook, backup roll) to see which works best for you. Each release has its advantages and disadvantages that may or may not work for your bowling style or body type.

    • 2

      Perform the underhand (or straight ball) release by keeping the arm and palm straight while allowing the ball to roll off your fingers towards the pins. This release is the easiest to learn and results in straight, accurate rolls.

    • 3

      Try a hook release by rotating your hand to the left (if you're right-handed) at the point of release. This release causes the ball to hook to the left as it rolls down the lane allowing the bowler to hit pins at many different angles. However, the hook takes wrist strength and is a difficult release to master.

    • 4

      Attempt the backup roll release by rotating the ball to the right (if you're right-handed) at the point of release. This causes the bowling ball to move to the right as it travels towards the pins. Such a release is easier on the wrist (than the hook) but is the most difficult to master.

    • 5

      Practice all 3 releases until you have more success (or are more comfortable) with one or the other.