A bowler’s stance is often as unique as they are. You’d be hard-pressed to find two identical start positions, even among bowlers developed by the same coach. That said, one of the constants of a good start position is an optimal ball position in the stance.

Your stance and ball start can form the foundation of an effective armswing. To that ensure your swing is as free and as loose as possible, and that the ball is always on-line throughout the swing, position the ball both to reduce tension in your bowling arm and to place it in-line with the intended ball path:

  • Keep the elbow bend at less than 90 degrees and place weight into the supporting hand to help reduce muscle tension.
  • The ball should be placed directly under the ball-side shoulder, with the shoulders square to the target line.
  • Minimize grip pressure by relaxing the bowling hand before starting the approach.