Delivering the Ball (the Run-Up)

Accurately aiming is only possible if you can throw your ball consistently every time. One way to ensure that you do this is by learning how to step up you the foul line in the correct way.

The most common run-up used by bowlers involves 4 steps, surprisingly enough it is known as the 4 step delivery! As most bowlers find it easier using 4 steps these notes (or now web page - web master) will focus mainly on this type of delivery. However, some bowlers may prefer to use 3 or 5 steps so notes on these types of delivery will also be included.

NB: The notes are also right hand biased, so sorry left handed people but you are going to have to reverse the procedure.

The Four Step Delivery

Stance

Start by standing square to the target holding the ball waist high. Bend the right knee (or both knees if it feels easier) and look at the target.

Note: For sparing you should face towards the pins you are trying to spare not straight ahead (unless you have central pins left)... always face the target!

Step One

Push the ball out and down with both hands whilst stepping out with your right foot. These two movements should take place simultaneously and be about the same distance in length.

Step Two

Let the ball swing down to your side in a pendulum movement as you step forward with your left foot. Your left hand will come away from the ball and you can hold it out to the side to aid balance if you find it helps.

Step Three

As you step forward with your right foot again the ball will be at the top of the back swing. This back swing should reach somewhere between your hip and shoulder. your elbow shouldn't be bent.

Step Four

When you left foot touches the floor during the last step, it should slide slightly and your knee should bend. The ball and your foot should reach the area slightly behind the foul line at approximately the same time.

Release

At this point the ball will naturally roll off your hand, thumb first. It is important to keep a firm finger grip on the ball so that your fingers lift the ball on the upswing.

Follow Through

In the follow through your arm should continue on an upward arc. Your hips and shoulders should still be square towards the target.

NB: The delivery should be as smooth as possible and in one continuous motion. It may help to say or think the words: Out, Side, Back, Through as you take your steps.

Position at Foul Line

The correct position at the foul line is as follows:

Left foot straight, pointing towards the target
Shoulders at right angles to intended target
Shoulder, knee and toe in a 'plumb line' alignment..............I feel a song coming on!
Follow through in line with target
Right foot touching approach

The Three Step Delivery

Start up standing as in the four step delivery, but bend your left leg instead of your right and hold the ball out and down before you take the first step

Step One

Step with your left foot and let the ball swing down to your side in a pendulum movement

Step Two

As you step forward with your right foot again the ball will be at the top of the back swing. This back swing should reach somewhere between your hip and shoulder. your elbow shouldn't be bent.

Step Three

The Five Step Delivery

This is the same as the four step delivery, but you take a step with the left foot before starting the Step 1 from 4 step. This means your left leg should start bent.