Please release me, let me go…. Ok, enough sappy 70’s music! Unless you are into doing the Machuga Flop, releasing the bowling ball is key to a good game. Unfortunately, mine was extremely inconsistent.
I found a great practice idea, that has really helped me in my off time. You just need a mattress, as low to the ground as possible. I used just the top part of my spare bedroom one. Lay it down with plenty of cushion against the wall. Practice doing 1 or 2 step releases, paying attention to your follow through, and wrist position. Before long, muscle memory will start to learn, and it will start to feel like a normal movement. You can practice with all the different wrist variations, as well as side vs forward roll releases. A lighter bowling ball is easier to practice with, but I use my standard 15 lb league favorite (Brunswick Fury Pearl, benchmark ball).
If you have room for it, a full approach is ideal. I can’t quite get there upstairs. Perhaps I can build a small approach with ball catch pit, to satisfy some off-lane practice. Everything you do to build a consistent delivery seems to help the game. The more you can NOT think about it, the better you will bowl!!
