Bowling is an indoor sport played on a wooden lane, where players roll a ball to knock down pins.

For those new to bowling, understanding the ball's grip, basic techniques, and strategies can seem challenging, potentially diminishing the enjoyment of the game.

Today, let's introduce the stance and common techniques of bowling to better experience the joy of this sport.

Starting Position

Firstly, insert your thumb fully into the thumb hole of the ball, with your middle and ring fingers inserted up to the second joint. Cup the ball in your palm in front of your chest, with both hands holding it upright, body aligned, and then begin your approach. In bowling, the four-step approach is commonly used.

The first step is to step out with the right foot while simultaneously extending the ball forward. The second step is to step out with the left foot, maintaining a right angle between the ball and the body. As the right foot steps forward on the third step, the ball's position shifts behind the body. Finally, as the left foot slides out on the fourth step, exert force to release the ball from your hand.

Keep your arm close to your body and maintain an upright posture. The ball should be held in front of you parallel to your right shoulder, with your left hand supporting it. When swinging the ball, lower your bent arm down and swing it straight back, the higher the ball's position and the greater the backswing, the faster the ball speed. During the release, keep your armpit tight and your arm straight. Avoid lofting the ball, as this will reduce its force upon impact with the lane.

Techniques and Strategies

1. Straight ball: Suitable for beginners, it's the fundamental technique for all lane conditions.

Mastering the straight ball before attempting other techniques is crucial for stability. The straight ball maintains a linear path from release to hitting the pins. Position your thumb directly above the target, with your middle and ring fingers behind, releasing the ball in the center of the lane to roll straight ahead.

2. Hook ball: Also known as the curve ball, it involves the ball curving significantly to the left after entering the lane. When throwing a hook ball, swing your arm forward with the thumb pointing towards the 1 o'clock position.

As the ball reaches its lowest point, rotate your wrist inward, releasing the ball with the thumb pointing towards the 9 o'clock position. The hook creates a curve on the oily part of the lane, transitioning to a sharper angle in the dry area, increasing the chances of striking the 1st and 3rd pins.

3. Spinner ball: A popular technique in recent years, it offers high impact and ease of learning. Hold the ball with your thumb pointing towards the 2 o'clock position. Swing your arm forward while rotating your wrist and arm counterclockwise, lifting your arm and your palm down. Apply pressure downwards with your thumb and push the ball forward with your middle and ring fingers.

As the fingers release from the holes, the thumb points towards the 6 o'clock position, and the fingers aim towards the noon position. The spinner ball rotates counterclockwise, hitting between the 1st and 2nd pins or the 1st and 3rd pins, causing them to knock each other down for a strike.

Note: Remove all jewelry, especially rings, to avoid injury while bowling. Ensure a firm grip on the ball to prevent slipping. It's advisable to warm up before bowling to prevent injuries such as sprains.