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.

Novice Video

Expert Video

Step 1 I begin with the ball right above my waist, my right elbow is slightly tucked back and my left arm helps maintain balance. I keep my feet together with my left starting ahead of my right. I have an slight bend in my right knee, this allows me to start from a comfortable position.

During step two you want to maintain balance with the ball by placing your opposite hand on the side. When you take your first step with your right leg the ball should begin to move with you. I try to keep my shoulders squared.

At this point you want to have drawn your right arm back with the ball to arc at the highest point comfortable. I start to turn my left arm out to the side to help maintain my balance.

The final step of throwing a strike is the follow through. You want all your weight to be balanced over your sliding foot which is my right. Your left arm is used as your balance to make sure your body weight is evenly distributed. You should try and imagine patting yourself on the back with your right hand.