QuestionI have noticed on PBA that the majority of the bowlers have a pronounced lower Throwing shoulder than the other shoulder thus they both are not parallel to the floor. Is this intential for some reasoning? Also they quite often make the first or second step a crossover type of step starting out. Can you explain this as to why?
Answer
True Bowler Adjustment
Hello LD. Often high level players or players from the collegiate level, who aspire to be professional bowlers one day, will practice their deliveries this way. The head will be directly above that lower shoulder. This is done to swing and target within the same swing plane. Often it may make sense that an "opposite eye dominant" bowler may prefer this type of swing position to stay within the 4" groove. This 4" groove, is the swing corridor that is created as the ball descends down and out onto the lane at release. Since your eyes are generally no wider than your arm per se, the ball can be projected from under your head. When accomplishing your delivery, you stand a better chance of staying on-line to your target with your head directly above your lower shoulder and the ball swinging directly under that shoulder.
As far as the crossover step, often it is executed to get "the ball side hip" out of the way. Collegiate bowlers practice this to allow the ball to free fall into the backswing after the first step of a four step approach. Five step approach bowlers will accomplish the crossover step on the second step. Often the last step of both approaches, will close back to the inside as if the bowler had been walking a tight rope.
Moving like this on the approach or learning to swing the ball directly below your head and bowling shoulder takes lots of practice and dedication.
Like any muscle movement, it will be very awkward and mechanical at first. If you aspire to be a top level bowler, you will make it yours, and make it comfortable for you.
Thank you for your questions.
