As a beginning bowler, you may have wondered the best way to hold a bowling ball. It’s a pretty common question and one that can be easily answered.
More seasoned bowlers have learned to use their hands, legs, and fingers to move the bowling ball down the lane, but it takes practice. Over time, with a bit of trial and error, it is easy to improve your bowling game and make it even more fun!
If you weren’t thinking about it before, you probably are now! Are you holding your bowling ball correctly? Keep reading, and we’ll help you get a grip on your bowling game with some tips and tricks.
How to Hold a Bowling Ball?
The first thing you have to do is learn how to hold on to the ball! Nothing is more embarrassing than accidentally letting go of the backswing and sending your ball into the crowd. Let’s start with the basics.
Your first step is to get the hang of holding the bowling ball securely. Once you’ve got that down, I’d suggest diving into the art of gripping the ball.
When it comes to holding the ball, there are various techniques you can explore. If you’re self-taught, chances are you’ve practiced with a ball featuring three drilled holes, as that’s the most common style you’ll encounter.
However, it’s worth noting that there are numerous other hole configurations out there. Some balls have five, four, or even just two finger holes, while others have none. What!
Why is Your Grip So Important?
As a beginner, you should perfect the act of gripping the ball before learning anything else.
If your grip isn’t spot on, you’ll struggle with controlling the speed of your ball and maintaining precision in your releases. While battling an imperfect grip, it is extremely difficult to guide the ball where you want it to go.
How Do You Know Your Ball is the Right Fit?
While a comfortable grip is important, you should also ensure you have the right ball. Make sure the holes are a good fit for your fingers, not too small or too large.
Bowling balls with tight holes often result in blisters. With too-small finger holes, you can end up with painful calluses, or damage to your fingernails can occur.
If you use a custom ball, it is recommended that you have the finger holes drilled at a professional bowling shop. That is the best way to know your fit is correct.
Remember, a bad fit can result in more than discomfort; it can even harm your bowling ball’s performance, resulting in lower scores. To play your best, don’t hesitate to consult a bowling expert for exact measurements and a perfect fit – your ball will thank you for it!
How Many Holes Go in a Bowling Ball?
As a beginner, having the right grip on your bowling ball makes you feel secure and comfortable in your bowling game. Keep in mind that the way you throw your bowling ball is closely tied to the specific hole drill layout.
Given the variations in hole drill layouts, you may find yourself adjusting both your throwing technique and grip accordingly. It’s all about adapting to the unique features of each configuration for a more adaptable and effective bowling game.
2 Holes
When your bowling ball calls for a two-finger grip, make sure those fingers are your middle and ring fingers. And here’s a handy tip: keep your thumb out to ensure you get it right.
This two-finger hole configuration is your ticket to controlling the spin of the ball. Without these crucial holes, achieving a successful throw would be quite a challenge.
3 Holes
The three-finger holes are the most common of all the drilling configurations available. While you place your ring and middle fingers in the holes at the top, you place your thumb in the lower hole.
With two holes at the top and one at the bottom, this grip provides better control, allowing for smoother ball movement and release. With this grip, all of your fingers help with maneuvering and shaping the ball’s direction.
4 Holes
Some bowlers prefer using a 4 hole grip. This grip is helpful in special situations, including those with physical limitations.
If you have arthritis, using a 3 whole grip will put too much pressure on your fingers, causing pain. Seasoned bowlers with this condition often prevent that by opting for the 4-hole grip.
Bowlers will also use the 4-hole grip if more control is a priority. Your play style is what really matters, and it is what will determine the type of bowling ball you use.
5 Holes
For the 5-hole grip, it’s important to note that all your fingers will find a place in the bowling ball. This grip offers several advantages. You’ll experience reduced pressure, and managing the bowling ball becomes easier.
The 5-hole grip also has its disadvantages. With more variables to control during the ball’s release, it can be harder to bowl with this grip.
But fear not, armed with a few key insights, you’ll be better equipped to select the perfect ball while taking your personal preferences into account.
No Holes
In this type of bowling, you won’t have any holes to place your finger on the bowling ball. The ball would rest on your palm instead.
The only requirement for this hold is that the palm must rest over the thumb hole in your ball.
Even though some people agree that this type of hold should be disallowed in bowling leagues, this grip still holds its popularity today.
The diversity of using different holds is part of why you enjoy the game. The importance of gripping the bowling ball the right way is critical to your bowling game.
Why Are There So Many Different Types of Hole Drills
If you’re brand new to bowling, you’ve probably wondered why there are multiple hole drill configurations in bowling.
Most people use the 3-hole drill because of its efficiency, but you might need to change holes in certain conditions.
If you need more support for your grip, you need more holes. You should also consider adding more holes if you want to change the style you use to throw your ball.
All the different hole configurations have their unique advantages and disadvantages. Pros recommend trying different grips and choosing one that will allow you to play to your strengths.
Different Grips
While the number of holes in your bowling ball can impact your style and grip, it’s worth noting that there are varied grip techniques to explore.
Opting for different grips not only changes your bowling style but also influences how the ball acts on the lane.
Conventional Bowling Grip
The conventional bowling grip is the most popular among beginner bowlers. If you’re new to bowling, this grip is recommended This particular grip is a self-starter, meaning you don’t necessarily need any guide to master it.
With this grip, you work with your thumb, ring, and middle fingers. Your pinky and pointy fingers aren’t really needed here. You only need to ensure they are flat on the ball’s surface.
Fingertip Grip
Once you’ve started practicing your grip, you will start to see improvements in your scores. You can improve your game even more by using the fingertip grip. This grip is difficult for beginners, so it isn’t recommended if you are just starting out.
To master the fingertip grip, you need some serious experience in bowling. Many professional bowlers use it to improve their scores in competitions. You can use it to improve ball spin, helping you find the pocket more easily.
Semi-Fingertip Grip
The semi-fingertip grip introduces a higher level of technicality than the fingertip grip. Before trying this one, you should already have some solid experience with both fingertips and conventional bowling grips.
This is because the semi-fingertip grip can be advanced and requires more control. This hold can be particularly attractive for bowlers who have mastered ball control and grip.
It is similar to the fingertip grip, but it’s important to know that it can also increase the likelihood of experiencing a hook in your throws.
Sarge Easter Grip
Sarge Easter grip is uncommon. It is rarely used, even in tournaments. The advantage of this grip is it supports forward roll and reduces ball rotation. It is also comfortable and helps some bowlers maintain more control.
Another reason people prefer the sarge easter grip is because it decreases finger tension. You will find other people using this grip switch due to finger injury or arthritis pain. It reduces stress on the fingers and hands.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve learned the basics of proper ball grip, you’re equipped with the knowledge to enhance your bowling experience.
Keep in mind that you can always explore different grip styles down the road, opening up exciting new dimensions to your bowling game.
The key lies in your willingness to learn and try new methods. Now it’s your turn to take your newfound knowledge and put it into action! Just relax and enjoy the game. Happy Bowling!