QuestionMy wife is double jointed and try as we might we cannot get her to hook her ball. She throws a 15lb full finger tip ball but the challenge is that when she is in her backswing her right elbow bows out to the right and when she follows through it straightens out causing her ball to break to the right. We have tried many different thumb positions and I have been thinking that maybe we need to get her some sort of elbow brace. Any insight or advice you might have would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Jim
Answer
www.TrueBowlerAdjustme
Hi Jim, I love this question! Bowlers all over the world kick the term "loose armswing" around so much! In 19 years, I have converted every backup bowler that wanted to learn the conventional way of delivering the ball. Grant you, some said it was difficult at first. That was, until they threw there first 200 game with their "new" second release! This is the way your wife wants to throw the ball. Jim, your wife is throwing what I call "truly" a "free armswing!"
In bowling there is no such thing as a "free armswing" well, until later! ....AFTER you have trained the arm, elbow, wrist, and hand to release the ball the way YOU want to. NOT, how they want to release the ball without your input! So Jim, Coaching is your best option.
Since you are not here in Las Vegas with me (most likely), my strongest recommendation is for your wife to hire a certified coach. This coach's on the spot corrections to her arm and hand motions will go a long way to a quick transition to delivering a hook ball. The first thing they will do is a ball fit analysis, even conferring with the pro shop professional if they have to. This effort will help with a smooth release, or proper drilling change if her ball has been drilled for a backup bowler.
If possible, please insure video is taken of your wife. This will alleviate any potential arguing about whether or not an action is, or is not being performed. This will facilitate a smooth transition and honestly Jim...keep you out of it! (smile)
Trust me, after we retrain the ARM and the HAND, the first time she see's that ball rolling like she has longed to see it rolling down the lane...woah, you will be the man!!! Video, provides instant feedback to the coach and your wife.
My new book describes the "normal" releases, however I also recommend your wife doesn't completely loose her backup ball ability either. (Just my personal thoughts here.)
In summary, Jim it's not so much her thumb. It's the training of the elbow, forearm, wrist, hand and thumb that needs to be evaluated.
Two releases: the pro loop, and the conventional loop, allows bowlers to deliver great shots with the proper timing and control. Control is what your wife has to achieve, to stop the over rotation of her elbow, wrist and hand under and to the right during delivery!
Her goal is to keep the thumb pointed to the left completely through her swing and delivery. My new book gives techniques to try. However, keeping the thumb pointing to the left in the beginning of training is the goal. For that, I strongly recommend a qualified coach to work with her, on the spot, on the lanes. Not online.(smile)
Good luck! You don't know how bad I would love this opportunity to get you guys on the right path to hooking the ball and stringing strikes!!! Thanks for helping her find some answers!
Be well, Bowl well.
-Gary
Las Vegas, NV.
www.TrueBowlerAdjustments.com (It's a great book!)
