Mastering the basics of holding and releasing a bowl is one of the first steps to becoming a confident indoor bowler. The way you grip and deliver the bowl affects its accuracy, weight, and bias, so learning proper techniques early on is essential.
This guide will introduce you to the fundamentals, covering how the bowl should sit in your hand, the two primary grips, and how to release the bowl smoothly for optimal performance.
Table of Contents
1. How the Bowl Should Sit in Your Hand
The bowl is designed to feel comfortable and balanced in your hand. Start by placing it so the running surface (the smooth, rounded underside) rests naturally against your palm. Your fingers should curl around the bowl while your thumb stabilizes it from above.
Check that the bias (the heavier side of the bowl) is correctly oriented, as this determines the bowl’s curved path. Most bowls have markings to indicate the bias – ensure these are facing the correct direction for your intended shot. Put very simply, the little ring should sit on the inside of your intended direction. The bowl should feel secure but not gripped too tightly, as this can lead to tension and affect your delivery.
2. The Two Common Grips
The Claw Grip
In the claw grip, the fingers are spread wider apart to grip the sides of the bowl firmly, while the thumb rests on top for stability. This grip offers a strong hold and is ideal for players who prefer a controlled, deliberate delivery.
- Place your fingertips around the sides of the bowl.
- Position your thumb firmly on top of the bowl to stabilize it.
- Keep your wrist straight to maintain control during the delivery motion.
The claw grip is particularly useful for players with larger hands or those playing on faster greens, where precision is key.
The Cradle Grip
The cradle grip involves cupping the bowl gently in the palm, with the fingers positioned more closely together and the thumb lightly resting on the bowl. This grip is softer and allows for a smoother, more fluid delivery.
- Let the bowl rest naturally in your palm.
- Curl your fingers around the bowl without squeezing.
- Place your thumb lightly on the side of the bowl to steady it.
The cradle grip is ideal for players who favour a relaxed, flowing delivery or for slower-paced greens, where a gentler touch is required. However, if your bowl is too big for your hand it will easily drop out before you intend.
3. The Motion to Release the Bowl Smoothly
Step 1: Position Yourself
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, aligning your body with your target. Your knees should be slightly bent, and your weight evenly distributed. If you’re right-handed, place your left foot slightly forward (reverse for left-handed players).
Step 2: Take Your Stance
Hold the bowl in your dominant hand and position it close to your body. Keep your non-dominant arm free for balance. Take a moment to visualize your intended line of delivery.
Step 3: The Backswing
As you begin your delivery, bring the bowl back in a controlled motion. Your arm should act like a pendulum, with minimal wrist movement. Avoid jerky or rushed motions—smoothness is key.
Step 4: The Forward Swing and Release
Swing your arm forward in a smooth motion, releasing the bowl as it passes your ankle. The release should feel natural and unforced, allowing the bowl to roll smoothly onto the mat. Aim for a low trajectory to keep the bowl stable and controlled.
Step 5: Follow Through
After releasing the bowl, continue the forward motion of your arm. Your hand should naturally point toward your target, reinforcing accuracy. Avoid pulling back abruptly, as this can disrupt the bowl’s path by making it wobble.
4. Practice Makes Perfect
Getting comfortable with your grip and delivery takes time and practice. Experiment with both the claw and cradle grips to find what feels most natural for you. Practice delivering bowls at different weights and lines to develop consistency.
Conclusion
Holding and releasing a bowl correctly is a fundamental skill that lays the foundation for success in indoor bowls. By mastering the claw or cradle grip and focusing on a smooth delivery motion, you’ll improve your accuracy and control on the rink. With regular practice, these techniques will become second nature, you will get a degree of muscle memory, helping you enjoy the game and perform at your best.