How Do I Stop Dropping My Bowling Ball Behind The Line?

bowlingball.com, Originally Posted: 4/6/15; Updated: 3/27/21

If you are new to the game and ask how do I stop dropping my bowling ball behind the line, then make sure you follow these simple checkpoints to improve your release technique?:

*Make sure your thumb hole is not too loose. If your thumb hole is too loose, you have to squeeze the ball to hold onto to it and you will make an errant delivery more often than you want.

*Have your pro shop pro check the size and shape of your thumb gripping hole to make sure it fits properly. Carry bowling tape in your bag so you can add a piece or two as needed to fill the space until your thumb swells enough while bowling where you can then remove tape.

*Make certain you do not decelerate your forward swing. Avoid shutting off or cutting short your your follow through motion. Follow through aggressively.

*Focus on releasing your ball as your bowling hand reaches your sliding shoe toe. Momentum built up from walking to the line and swinging the ball will help propel the ball over the foul line if you begin your release at your slide shoelaces or at the toe.

*Check your sliding shoe upon completing a delivery. If you your slide stops more than 6 inches behind the foul line, you need to either increase the length of your steps or move closer to the line or both.



If you have questions about the fit of your thumb hole, get into the pro shop and have the professional examine your thumb hole and your bowling hand to determine if any alterations to the thumb hole are needed.

*Keep your bowling hand behind the ball until your hand reaches the sliding shoe toe before rotating your bowling fingers.

*Avoid opening your hand and allowing your ball to fall to the floor before your hand reaches the proper delivery zone.

*If you do not have a sufficiently firm grip on the ball throughout your swing cycle, you might be relaxing your grip on the ball too soon.

If you have more questions about how to release your ball properly and not drop the ball on the approach floor, then consult an experienced instructor and work on your swing and release technique under the guidance of knowledgeable eyes.

Once you develop a good release and get the ball over the foul line properly and consistently, you will develop improved accuracy and raise your bowling scores.