Make A Smooth Transition From The Top Of Your Bowling Swing

bowlingball.com, Originally Posted: 9/6/2013; Updated 3/9/2023

Swing discipline is a vital key in good shot making. Talented and successful bowlers have disciplined their swing motion to wait for the bowling ball for a split second to drop freely into the downswing.

The ability to not hurry the transition from the top of your back swing into the downswing is one key area you must train yourself into mastering. A smooth transition into the downswing from the top of your backswing is key to efficient shot making.

The force of gravity will start your downswing if you do not prohibit this action by using muscle tension trying to control the bowling ball. Muscle tension is generally introduced by anxiety.

When you are so aggressive and trying so hard to make a powerful or accurate delivery, it is human nature to rush the down swing and forward swing which may cause an errant delivery.

By allowing your bowling ball to fall smoothly and freely from the top of your backswing, about 12 inches of free-fall motion, you set the tempo for the forward swing cycle.

The first 12 inches in your downswing is key to making good shots. It is important to accelerate your forward swing, but it must happen just following the first 12 inches your bowling ball falls into your down swing.

Once you begin accelerating your forward swing, complete the cycle by making a full and complete follow-through motion.

You will have the time needed to transition into a smooth down swing if you get your bowling ball started into your swing early enough so you do not have to hurry the delivery from the top of your backswing.


Make certain you do not grab the ball at the top of the backswing. Grabbing at the ball anticipating making a good delivery places unneeded gripping finger pressure on your ball.

Maintain consistent grip pressure on the ball during the complete swing cycle.

Avoid hurrying your downswing.

Wait for a split second from the top of your swing before beginning the forward swing. This patience at the top of your swing results in a consistent bowling ball finger rotation as your hand reaches the critical release zone.

Regardless of how nervous you might be in pressure bowling situations, discipline your swing to wait for the bowling ball at the top of your backswing. Do not rush your delivery.

Accuracy depends on good swing discipline and fundamentals and the first 12 inches of your down swing is an important key.