What is a hook? A hook is a bowling ball that’s thrown on the lane with rotation that makes it curve. It’s as simple as that. Bowlers who are proficient at hooking the ball will start the ball out on the lane so it’s headed toward the gutter, but the spin they apply at release makes the ball grab the lane and turn back into the pins at the optimal moment for maximum power and pin displacement.

What’s the benefit of throwing a hook vs. a straight ball? When amateurs throw a hard, straight ball, often they will get some strikes, however the pins generally move from front to back when struck, and will generally not hit one another. When pins react and bounce off each other it’s known as action. Straight balls don’t create much action. However a the spin on a hook ball will make the pins hit one another and the side boards. This will result in a lot more strikes, which is the ultimate goal right?

Is the type of ball important to throw a hook? It most definitely is. The type of bowling ball you use plays a significant factor on your hooks. These balls are often used to enhance the hook’s power. Most good bowlers who throw a hook prefer to use reactive or particle balls, however urethane balls are still available. Make sure you choose a bowling ball that fits your style of play. Or better yet, have each kind of ball to fit different styles of play. You’ll never know when a specific game or condition fits a certain make of your ball.

What is the proper technique for throwing a hook ball? In order to hook a bowling ball, the thumb goes first, followed by the fingers. The fingers are largely responsible for the rotation and the thumb the direction of the rotation. So start by placing your thumb in such way that it points like an 11 o’clock hand. The small vertical tilt of the thumb will affect a hook ball. As you release the bowling ball, always be aware of the position and direction your thumb is pointing.

Keep your wrist relatively firm as you release the ball. To attempt a stronger hook add power by applying more tug with your fingers as the ball is released. Always be mindful of your approach and release form as this will influence the success of your hook. Resist the urge to flip your wrist over in an attempt to help the ball rotate. This is a bad technique and will not yield consistent results.

Too sum up, a hook ball is largely initiated by the thumb and powered by the fingers. After a while, you have a good idea of thumb and finger placements that feel good for your style. Then you will be able to vary your technique to throw large sweeping hooks that devastate the pocket or small hooks to pick up spares. Either way, practice is a must, so head on down to the lanes and start getting your hook ball in order, so the next time you play your buddies, they’ll be in shock at your new powerful hook ball.