RELEASE DRILL

The release drill is used to help the bowler know where his/her hand is during their release. This helps create what is known as a flat spot since the ball is starting from the floor. Right handed bowlers should start by kneeling on their right knee and placing their right knee directly behind the left foot. This should create a rectangle between their right knee and left foot. From this point the left forearm should be placed over the left knee to help create leverage.

The bowling ball will start at the bowlers left foot and be drawn back to roughly where the right knee is. During this motion the arm should remain straight, the elbow should not bend. Also the ball should never come off the ground and should slide smoothly throughout the movement. Many bowling instructors stress that during the drill you draw the ball back and forth 2-3 times prior to releasing to emphasize a consistent movement. By emphasizing the movement you help create muscle memory. At the point of release you are going to follow through, those performing the drill should note it’s not about where the ball goes down the lane. The drill is specifically used to create a free arm swing, a straight arm, and for the bowler to become familiar with the weight transfer through your fingers tips at the time of release.