Hold Your Bowling Form Under Pressure

bowlingball.com, Originally Posted: 9/7/2012; Updated: 6/25/2023

The former PBA Tour and PBA Hall of Fame Champion, Nelson Burton, Jr., used to often comment “hold your bowling form under pressure.” It was apparent when “Bo” Burton offered one of his favorite tips “hold your bowling form under pressure” he was emphasizing the importance of not hurrying to deliver the ball and making certain that you maintain good balance during the critical delivery phase of your approach.


We at bowlingball.com feel it is important to commit to being in a set and very stable position with your legs and upper body when delivering the bowling ball.


Regardless of how skilled you are, pressure causes players to rush in anticipation of making an important shot during competition. Do not hurry your approach and maintain good balance at the line. Wait for your swing when sliding into the foul line and do not rush your delivery.


Keeping your upper body as still as possible when you slide and deliver the bowling ball and holding your posture until the ball approaches your sighting target on the lane are as critical to effective shot-making as any other fundamental component of your game.


Another way to think of this is to use the good form necessary to pose for a photograph after you have delivered your bowling ball.
Maintain good upper body posture from the beginning of your approach and reduce any wasted motion during your approach.

A proven practice drill is to hold your form after releasing your ball and remain motionless until the ball reaches the pins. If you are able to do this for five or ten consecutive deliveries during your practice sessions, you will most certainly have excellent balance and be well positioned to make good pressure shots.


When “Bo” Burton said “hold your bowling form under pressure”, he knew that it was as important for the Pro’s bowling on TV as it was for anyone during competitive bowling sessions.
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