MO'S CORNER

January 2004

The "Sliding Hinge" Start

The vast majority of bowlers fit into either one of two categories: early timing or late timing.   Basically, early timing represents the hand reaching the release point prior to the foot, and late timing represents the foot reaching the release point prior to the hand.  Each of these should quickly paint a mental picture in the relationship of the hand and foot (or foot and hand) as a ball is being released.

First let me state that there are varying degrees of each timing category.  Each has a different impact on how you bowl (address the lane and target), and each has different effect on how you score.  In some cases, it may be important to change your cadence (timing) to match the lane conditions in order to score.  But first, you must achieve proper timing whereby the foot and hand (or hand and foot) reach the point of release at the same time!  Once this is mastered, then it'll become easier to recognize when early or late creeps into your game and prevents you from achieving what you want.  Or, you'll better understand techniques to use to adjust to specific conditions.

Note: The earlier the elbow hinges - the earlier the timing; the later the elbow hinges - the later the timing!

Hinge the elbow to create a half-circle shape during the start.  The primary advantage of this approach is better control in placing the ball in motion, and better control of ball position with respect to body position (not chasing the ball!).  Once the elbow unhinges, the arm (including the elbow) must be straight!

Another area that dramatically effects your pin carry and accuracy is the consistency of the ball position at release.  Arm swings vary as much as bowlers come in different sizes and shapes.  If you desire to increase your margin for error, increase your potential rev rate, and improve your hitting power (pin carry), your ball and fingers MUST stay parallel to the lane at release .  The diagram below provides a visual perspective of the flat spot in relationship to the arm swing.

Notice that the flat spot begins just behind the sliding ankle and extends beyond the sliding foot.  The longer you can control the flat spot, the more benefit you will see.  Regardless of your arm swing, the most important factor is to visualize the bottom of your swing (and your release point) must be in front of your sliding foot!

Wrap-up