Getting Back to Bowling with Injury

[Shawn.benson@gmail.com]

It's been 30 years since I was last on a league.  Always recreational.  I am looking at bowling again but have aged and had a serious broken arm (right) a couple of years ago that has led to a frozen shoulder.  6 months of physical therapy 3 times a week got me back to about 80% usage of my arm.  I guess I am starting over. although I remember the mechanics, it is the execution that is lacking .  Looking for a ball and weight to start, knowing I will probably have to work up to a heavier weight. Last ball was a 16 pound Columbia plastic ball.  Had a 169 average.  I used to bowl right handed with a hook that is not that aggressive but worked for me.  I have bowled a couple of times now, first time left handed with a 15 pound ball.  It was frustrating to say the least.  Tried right handed and it was a lot of pain with the 15 pound ball, not much different with 14 pound ball.  Bowled a 60 with a 13 pound ball, could not get a hook at all with some pain.  Tried the 10 pound ball my son was using and did get a hook and at least broke a 100, but not much pin action which was not surprising. 
That said, knowing these were house balls, should I start at 12 pounds and work towards a heavier ball?  Are there any balls in a lighter weight that use the same core as the heavier balls?  Below are what I have looked at, leaning towards the Brunswick Twist to start, any opinions would be appreciated!

• Brunswick Twist
• Brunswick Rhino
• Columbia Nitrous
• Motiv Freestyle Rush
• Ebonite Turbo/R
• Pyramid Path Rising

Shawn.

[MI 2 AZ]

Hi Shawn. 

I would first recommend that you change your username and not use an email address for your own privacy protection.

Talk to your doctor about your right arm and see what he recommends first. 

Seriously consider switching to your left hand/arm with something like 13 pounds to start off with. Probably a plastic or urethane ball that you could later use for spares after you get the timing and release worked out and want to move up in weight to 14. 

Today's balls are much more dynamic than those 30 years ago so many bowlers are using less weight.  Most are probably in the 14-15 pound range depending on age and health.

I will let others comment on your ball choices but I would talk to your local proshop and see what would be the best match for your style and the lane conditions in your area.