DEGREES OF SEPARATION: Being Able To Adjust Your Axis Rotation Is A Tool Worth Having

Written By: Kim Terrell-Kearney | Written On: Sunday, May 19, 2024 | Updated On: Wednesday, January 15, 2025

Understanding Axis Rotation in Bowling

There are several major factors that influence how a bowling ball rolls after it leaves your hand: speed, rev rate, axis rotation, and axis tilt. Among these, a player's ability to adjust their axis rotation has the greatest impact on their versatility. This is one of the most valuable skills in bowling and is commonly found at the elite level, but it is increasingly taught to intermediate players as well.

Axis rotation is measured on the ball's horizontal plane by locating a player’s positive axis point (PAP), which is the stable axis around which the ball initially rotates. To better visualize this, place a small piece of white tape on your ball’s PAP. For right-handers, if your hand is up the back of the ball at release, the tape will appear on the west side of the ball. The more your hand moves around the ball at release, the more the tape moves east. Adjusting your axis rotation changes the way the ball reacts to the lane surface.

Bowling balls generally follow a pattern of skid, hook, and roll. Less axis rotation shortens the skid phase and gets the ball into the hook phase earlier, while maximum rotation extends the skid phase and increases hook potential down the lane. This makes axis rotation a powerful tool that allows players to modify their ball's reaction while staying in the same area of the lane and using the same break point.

Lateral moves on the lane often force bowlers to make multiple adjustments, which can be challenging, especially in difficult lane conditions. Adjusting axis rotation enables bowlers to stay in their comfort zone and maintain control over their shots.

How to Gauge and Adjust Axis Rotation

Theoretical axis rotation ranges from 0 to 90 degrees. A release closer to 0 degrees results in a forward, end-over-end roll. More axis rotation, achieved by releasing the ball from the side, extends the skid phase and increases hook potential.

To gauge your axis rotation, mark your PAP with tape and have a spotter observe how it moves as you adjust your hand position. Start by presetting your hand position in your stance—either more on the side or directly underneath the ball. It is crucial to maintain this hand position through the release. A spotter, coach, or pro shop operator can help you confirm if you’re achieving the desired hand position and axis rotation.

Physically, delivering the ball with your hand up the back will feel different compared to getting around the side. With your hand up the back, you’ll notice more contact on the pads of your fingers. Getting around the side will shift the release feel to the sides of your fingers.

Recognizing the Need to Adjust Axis Rotation

If your ball is entering the hook phase too early or hooking too much, adjusting your axis rotation can help. Getting around the side of the ball increases length, while staying up the back creates an earlier hook phase with a smoother backend reaction. These adjustments allow bowlers to fine-tune their reaction to lane conditions without changing equipment or altering speed.

While other factors, such as equipment changes and speed adjustments, influence ball reaction, axis rotation provides the most immediate and impactful results. Bowlers with multiple releases and a versatile arsenal of balls have significantly more options and flexibility on the lanes.

Conclusion: Mastering Axis Rotation for Versatility

Understanding and mastering axis rotation is a game-changer for bowlers at any level. By learning to adjust your hand position and control your release, you can effectively modify your ball’s reaction to suit varying lane conditions. This skill not only enhances versatility but also minimizes the need for major adjustments during play, helping you maintain consistency and confidence.

Axis rotation adjustments empower bowlers to maximize their performance with the equipment they already own. It’s an essential tool for competitive players and a valuable skill for recreational bowlers looking to improve their game. Combining this knowledge with practice, coaching, and observation will give you a competitive edge and make your time on the lanes more enjoyable and successful.