Bowling Swing Three Phases

By: bowlingball.com, 6/15/17

Updated 9/16/2020

Your bowling swing three phases can be described as a backswing, a downswing, and a forward swing.

It is easier, however, to think of the swing in only two phases than three phases.

A simple view of your swing is a backswing and a forward swing.

The challenge here is that many instructors describe the forward swing as two phases because the actual release of your bowling ball occurs amid the downswing and the forward swing or upswing movements.

In fact, instructors might even break down the swing further by describing four phases.

Four phases might include the beginning of the swing prior to the backswing. This movement is sometimes referred to as a “pushaway” movement or a dropping of the ball into the swing synchronized with the steps.

If you think about it, a relaxed backswing where there is little muscle tension controlling the pace of your backswing is necessary in setting up a smooth transition into your downswing.

Your downswing is then followed up by your release and completion of your forward swing.

In simple terms, if you relax your backswing movement, you merely need focus on swinging your ball freely from the top of your backswing into the forward swing and allowing your bowling hand to release the ball at or near the bottom of your forward swing cycle.

The point to all of this is that instructors can think of the swing in three phases (or perhaps four phases) but it is ultimately best for you to think only of a relaxed, one-piece backswing and then a tension free forward swing and release.

During your forward swing, your hand releases the ball while you are sliding at a point allowing the ball to enter the lane surface slightly beyond the foul line.

After the release, you simply continue swinging your arm upward which completes your entire swing cycle. This finishing upward swing, most commonly know as the “follow-through” movement, is also directed toward your aim point on the lane.

It is also advised by instructors to never decelerate your forward swing. On that note, avoid losing balance and sliding stability when finishing your accelerated forward swing motion.

Walk with your upper body as stationary as you can and with little or no head movement while swinging and releasing your ball. Balance coupled with consistent swing tempo leads to repeating quality shots. Initiate your swing with a smooth and consistent trigger movement so each time you bowl, your timing and swing pace, and your bowling swing three phases are reliably consistent.

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