To hold a bowling ball properly, follow these key steps:
- Use the conventional grip: Insert your thumb fully into the larger thumb hole, then place your middle and ring fingers into the two adjacent finger holes up to the second knuckle. Your index and pinky fingers rest on the ball's surface to help cup it
- Ensure the holes fit comfortably without strain; the ball should feel secure but not too tight. You should be able to lift the ball with little effort and maintain control
- Hold the ball with your palm flat against it, keeping your fingers close together to improve control. Curl your fingers around the ball and press down with your thumb to maintain a firm grip
- Support the ball with your non-bowling hand underneath to help stabilize it at waist height with your elbow close to your body
- Keep your arm straight and hold the ball firmly during your approach and release for better power and accuracy
This conventional grip is recommended especially for beginners as it provides good control and accuracy while reducing injury risk. More advanced grips like fingertip or semi-fingertip grips involve inserting fingers less deeply and are used to generate more hook but require more skill
. In summary, place your thumb fully into the thumb hole, middle and ring fingers into the finger holes up to the second knuckle, cup the ball with your palm and fingers close together, and support the ball with your other hand for a proper hold
