It may seem highly intuitive but knowing how to pick up a bowling ball is actually a skill that you need to learn and master. For some, it may come more naturally. For others, picking up a bowling ball for the very first time may seem awkward and clunky.
In this quick guide, we walk you through the things you need to know in order to pick up that bowling ball properly and, most importantly, safely. Continue reading to know more!
Step-by-Step Guide on Picking Up a Bowling Ball
Take note that this guide assumes that you are a beginner in the sport of bowling. For the intermediate-level and expert-level players, some of these steps may not be necessary for you.
1: Choose your bowling ball from the ones that are available on the bowling ball return system
The bowling ball return system is one of the best mechanisms introduced to the sport of bowling. It is an automated way of returning a bowling ball to where the players are after having rolled down the bowling lane to collide with the pins.
Obviously, if you are just beginning your match, your bowling ball would be with you. This step will not be necessary if this is the case.
If, on the other hand, you do not own a bowling ball yourself, then feel free to choose any of the bowling alley’s available bowling balls that are on the return mechanism.
It is also important to make sure that the bowling ball selected and the neighboring balls have reached a full stop so as to avoid injury when picking up the ball.
2: While on the return system, rotate the selected bowling ball and find the finger holes in preparation for the succeeding step
At this point, try to move the bowling ball around and find the finger holes. Some people opt to grab the bowling ball immediately and deal with inserting the fingers in the finger holes later but we prefer this method.
3: Stick your fingers of your dominant hand (or bowling hand) into the finger holes of the selected ball
This step is pretty self-explanatory. However, the type of grip may differ from bowler to bowler. For conventional bowlers, especially those who are just beginning, we highly recommend sticking to the traditional grip method by fully sticking your middle finger, ring finger, and thumb comfortably into the finger holes of the selected bowling ball.
4: With your free hand, grab onto the side of the selected bowling ball and lift
The non-dominant hand will then be used to grab the side of the bowling ball. Take note that if there are bowling balls to the right and left of the selected ball, then the available sides would be the front side and the back side.
5: Assume your position and prepare for the bowling approach and swing
Once you have the bowling ball in your hands and your grip is comfortably and safely set into the bowling ball, you can now begin to walk to your starting position in preparation for your swing and throwing of the bowling ball.
Conclusion
Knowing how to pick up a bowling ball is the first of many wonderful steps in the realm of bowling. We suggest that you follow our recommended steps as much as possible so that the action of picking up the bowling ball is second nature.