Bowling is enjoyed the world over by many people. Regardless of age, this indoor game is beloved for family fun days, dating, among friends as well as a professional sport.
It is also a great time killer, which is why many students at break will be found in the bowling alleys.
However, the fun fact is, not many people are familiar with the intricacies involved in choosing the right weight for their bowling ball.
Beginner bowlers often experience the issue of the right fit bowling ball. It is a daunting task and is especially restrictive in the very public, very busy bowling alleys.
Testing out the fit of balls in such crowded spaces is hard, if not impossible!
In case you do not know what you are looking for, it is crucial for new bowlers to have some pointers on how to maximize their experience at the bowling alley.
Here, the best way to ensure that you get the right dimensions for your hand is to consult a local pro shop.
Weight of the Ball to Pick
Bowling balls come in a number of weights between 6 pounds and 16 pounds. Choosing the right weight for your ball is crucial as it affects both your play and your body.
The General Rule of Thumb
The easiest way to determine the best weight bowling ball for you is to choose one which is substantial enough for you to be able to roll down the bowling lane without straining your body.
However, this is also not so quickly done as you cannot test out all the balls in a public alley. Unless you are the president's child and you have full access to the whole place.
And in that case, you would already have your hands fitted to know what weight is suitable for you. Therefore, for us commoners, the thumb rule to follow is to divide your body weight by 11 and trying a ball that is one or two pounds less.
Professional’s Choice
Professionals generally use balls that are between 13 and 15 pounds. Since the average weight of the pins is 2.8 pounds, you would have higher chances of hitting them all at a go using a heavy bowling ball.
It makes more sense to have at least the weight of all the pins combined (28 pounds). In this sense, you should use the most massive ball you can throw.
Through practice, most people end up having custom-made bowling balls at 13 pounds and above. This is because, with time, you develop muscle strength and are able to through more massive balls.
For Occasional or Rookies
For beginners or irregular users who do not wish to purchase a custom-made bowling ball, it is important to know the options they have at the bowling alley.
Typically, house balls weigh between 6 and 16 pounds. They are usually labeled, though the weight might not be exact when you put them on a scale.
Kids’ and Teens’ Pick
The lighter balls between 6 and 10 pounds are usually intended for younger kids.
Teenagers typically use balls that weight between 11 and 14 pounds, while adults should use those above 14 pounds.
When choosing bowling balls for kids, a good rule to follow is to match the ball weight with their ages, e.g. an 11-year-old should use an 11-pound bowling ball. However, this is also dependent on the child’s hand size and strength.
Weight of Bowling Ball
Adult’s Common Choice
Adult bowlers have a better chance of scoring high points using a 14-pound ball or higher. Choosing a heavy ball ensures that you are able to control it and that you get a solid impact with the bowling pins.
When all is said and done, the best bowling experience is realized from having the right fit and weighted bowling ball.
You can improve your game by having your hand fitted for size and the most comfortable weight that you can carry and throw.
Some Expert Tips that Might Help
A big step towards learning how to bowl is to have a ball that fits your hand properly. The gripping holes are contoured and also shaped specifically for your hand, making it easier to handle and control the ball while playing.
This translates to better scores and good posture during the game.
Once you have a fitted bowling ball, remember that it might feel lighter than a house ball due to its fit to your hand and gripping fingers. Using your own ball structured to your specific finger measurements is also a safety precaution.
Since house balls are made for the general public, sizes vary and most often you do not have the option to try out all the balls to get the one that suits you best.
Due to using a ball either too big or too small for your fingers, your skin may chaff, break off or you might even hurt your fingers. Some people have had serious finger injuries associated with bowling, so you might want to consider having a fitted one.
Additionally, your skin may become irritated, which also affects the outcome of your game.
Facts & Findings
For someone who is serious about bowling, your best option is to have a fitted ball. This improves accuracy and comfortability when handling the ball and also eliminates the chances of getting injured as a result of using the wrong size of ball.
Apart from that, you do not have to worry about irritated skin and chafing due to handling dirty and overused bowling ball. Go ahead and fit your hand for a bowling ball and enjoy the good score.
In conclusion, the optimum bowling ball weight is that which you can comfortably throw. For even better results, you would benefit greatly from having a ball that is specifically fitted for your hand.
It is contoured to fit your fingers, enabling you to comfortably throw the ball with minimum effort. Additionally, you avoid many problems such as skin irritation and injury to your fingers as a result of using house balls that do not fit.
For kids, the best way to determine the proper ball weight is to choose a ball whose weight is equivalent to their age. For adults who do not wish to buy a fitted bowling ball, they should choose a heavy ball that they can throw with the least effort.