Weight Range In Bowling Balls
If you are a new bowler and preparing to purchase your first new bowling ball, it is important to select a total weight bowling ball which will help you develop as a bowler.
If you are an experienced bowler and are considering changing the weight of ball you use, then it is important to consider similar options as do beginner bowlers.
Bowling balls range from 6 lbs for small children up to a maximum allowable total weight ball (after drilling gripping holes) of 16.0 pounds.
Let’s establish one strategy right away - use the maximum weight ball you can handle where you can maintain good ball speed and control after you are fitted and measured for drilling your new ball.
Strength is an asset when you can use a 15 lb. or 16 lb. ball because you will deliver the ball and gain greater force upon impact with the bowling pins than when using a lighter weight ball.
Having a properly fitted ball to your hand coupled using the right weight ball and coupled with learning good physical game mechanics including developing a smooth and tension free arm swing are most important factors in learning the game.
If you cannot deliver a maximum weight bowling ball at a general speed range averaging about 16 or 17 mph, then you may wish to consider using a ball lighter than the maximum allowable weight to approach that average ball speed range.
If you are shopping for a youngster, then a “rule of thumb” for the kids is choosing a ball which matches their age - a six lb. ball for a 6 or 7 years old, a 10 lb ball for a 10 or 11 year old youngster, and so on.
Slight adjustments in weight selection might be necessary depending on the strength and athleticism of the junior bowler.
Some experimentation may be needed but this is a good guide for selecting the right weight ball for kids whether they use a “house ball” off the general rack of balls provided by the local bowling center or whether the youngster has his first ball custom fit to his or her hand.
Senior bowlers typically use balls ranging from 10 lbs upward. Depending on a senior bowler’s hand flexibility and body strength, the heaviest weight ball which can be handled comfortably should be used to maximize bowling pin action.
One common thread for any and all new bowlers, regardless of age or gender, is to be fitted and measured by a pro shop professional to make certain the ball fits properly and reduces the chances of injury or irritation to the bowling hand.
Your pro shop professional is the person to begin the ball weight selection process with so you can not only choose the right weight ball to get you started but also the type of ball best suited to your developing game.
Once you have drilled a bowling ball at the best weight for you, it is important to consider taking at least one bowling lesson from an experienced bowling instructor to learn techniques in swinging and releasing your new ball.
Using the ball weight best suiting your style of bowling will help you improve control and accuracy.
