Ensuring you are using a bowling ball that is the perfect weight for you, is crucial for you to perform in the best way possible.
It is very easy to select a ball that is too heavy or too light for you, and this, in turn, will affect your performance.
However, there are a few rules you can follow when it comes to choosing the right ball, and this article is going to discuss them – so you can avoid getting your thumbs stuck in those holes!
Does The Weight Of The Ball Matter?
The weight of the bowling ball is very important. The heavier a ball is that you can throw comfortably, the more force you’ll have thanks to the mass of the ball.
However, you must measure this by your ability to comfortably repeat a maximum throw, with the top weight of a bowling ball. In other words, you must find the heaviest ball you can comfortably throw repeatedly.
If you’re using a bowling ball that’s too heavy for you, you may be compensating for the extra weight by not using the correct form. This will lessen your performance, and can also cause injury if you aren’t careful.
On the other side of things, if you’re using a ball that’s too light, you won’t be getting the right resistance or force in order to get the best shot and knock over the pins.
Therefore, some trial and error may need to take place in order to find the best weight for you.
The 10% Rule
The general rule of thumb, when figuring out the best bowling ball for you, is to make sure it is 10% of your body weight.
For example, if you weigh 120 pounds, then you should be using a ball that weighs around 12 pounds.
There may be a case where a ball that is 10% of your body weight is still too heavy or light for you. This will depend on the overall fitness levels of each individual, but it is a good rule to start with.
If you find that bowling balls that are 10% of your body weight are too light or heavy, you can try a ball that’s a pound heavier or lighter, but this rule is a good way to start.
There are many factors to consider on the side of this rule. As mentioned above, it all depends on the general fitness of each person.
Trial And Error And Be Honest With Yourself
To find the perfect weighted ball, you need to pay attention to your physical well-being.
You may find that you can throw a ball that weighs 15 pounds, but can you throw it repeatedly for several games without getting tired or injured?
If you find yourself tiring out easily or feeling uncomfortable with a ball that weighs 15 pounds, then downsizing a few pounds will improve your performance, and it’ll mean you’ll be able to be consistent throughout each and every game.
What Weight Do Bowlers Normally Use
All bowlers are of different shapes, sizes, and fitness levels, so it is hard to pinpoint an average when it comes to the weight that is normally used.
However, statistics do show that average adult males use bowling balls that range from 13 to 16 pounds, but this does depend on the body strength of the individual, age, or injuries they may have.
When it comes to the average adult female, statistics show that 12 pounds is the most popular weight for bowling balls.
The range for females normally starts from 10 pounds to 14 pounds, but the same factors as males, such as age and strength, also apply.
When it comes to children, a good rule to follow is their age. If they are 7 years old, then a bowling ball that weighs 7 pounds is a good place to start.
What Is The Lightest And Heaviest Bowling Ball You Can Find?
When it comes to the lightest bowling ball, you’ll normally find some weighing around 6 pounds.
While you may find some lighter ones aimed at toddlers, these balls that weigh 6 pounds are mainly aimed at very young children or those with physical disabilities who would struggle to throw a ball that is heavier.
The heaviest bowling balls you can find are usually 16 pounds. This is normally the heaviest weight allowed in bowling alleys and tournaments.
This means there’s a ten-pound range to choose from, which can make the process quite tricky!
Extra Tips For Finding The Perfect Bowling Ball For You
While the above has provided you with a few factors to consider when choosing a bowling ball, there are a few extra tips you should be aware of.
Remember Your Thumb
A perfect bowling ball means your thumb fits nicely inside. When choosing a ball, try inserting your thumb inside the thumbhole. Slide the thumb in and out. It should feel loose and tight enough that you are able to release the ball without having to grip it.
Don’t Stretch Your Hand
The span of the ball is the distance between the thumbhole and the finger holes of the bowling ball.
Your fingers and thumb should be able to be inserted into the holes comfortably, and you should be able to hold the ball without fear of dropping it.
There should be enough room between the ball and your hand to fit a pencil beneath it. If you are able to do this, you know you aren’t overstretching your hand or holding it too tightly.
Final Thoughts
Finding a bowling ball that is the perfect weight and size for you is the best way to practice and succeed at the sport.
If you don’t know where to start, use the 10% rule and increase or decrease the weight from there.
If you are bowling with children, then you can go by their age.
We hope this article has provided you with a good guide on how to find the perfect bowling ball weight for you!
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