Keep your hand "quiet". Less hand motion is better for those starting
out in the sport. Make sure your wrist and hand form a straight line
and that your wrist does not bend backwards at all. This is called a firm
wrist position and used by most bowlers. If you bend your wrist back the fingers
will be more towards the top of the ball and could cause a spinning motion
or topping motion with your hand. Hold your right hand out in front at eye level. Notice your thumb pointing up towards 12:00 o'clock. Now look at your middle fingers. They are probably in a position of 5 and 4 o'clock using the small hand of a clock. Keep this hand position throughout your swing and release. Left handers middle fingers will be around 7 and 8 o'clock.
You will want to release the ball without rotating your hand for now.
Make sure the thumb comes out a split second before the fingers do.
Release the ball as it comes next to your slide foot ankle and
have the ball move towards the lane like a plane landing on an air strip.
This hand position should move your track higher into a normal 3/4 roller
type track. The ball will still hook as long as you roll it into a part
of the lane where there is less lane conditioner. Do this for a few months until
you become used to it. If you want to add more hook find a qualified bowling
trainer in your area and have them teach you several different hand positions
without sacrificing your timing and consistency. Top of your list for becoming
better is to (1) walk straight towards your target line. (2) have a straight and loose arm swing. (3) have a solid consistent follow thru. Work on doing these 3 things the same over and over again and you are well on your way
to becoming a better bowler.
Terry
