For right-handed bowlers, it’s the 10-pin, and for left-handed bowlers, it’s the 7-pin. Many people find these spares difficult. It’s challenging when the pins on the edge remain. Today, I will explain how to pick up the 10-pin spare.
Importance of the 10-Pin
The 10-pin often remains because the ball hits the pocket. For right-handed bowlers, if the ball goes between the 1 and 3 pins, the 10-pin tends to stay standing. While there are irregular cases, it generally happens because the ball went into the pocket. This is a common problem for many bowlers, and conquering the 10-pin can lead to higher scores. Today, we will learn how to pick up the 10-pin.
Basic Targeting Method
To cover the 10-pin, it’s best to throw from the edge. The reason for this is that the outer part of the lane has no oil, while the inner part does. Using the inner part helps the ball stay straight and reach the 10-pin more easily. Throwing too much from the right can cause the ball to curve due to the lack of oil, increasing the risk of going into the gutter. Therefore, throwing from a diagonal angle reduces the risk of the ball curving into the gutter and increases the chances of hitting the 10-pin from a more stable position.
Subaru NaganoUsing the First Ball to Pick Up the Spare
When using the first ball from the same position, it tends to curve a bit. Therefore, using a spare ball is recommended. Additionally, when there is less oil on the lane, the ball tends to curve more, so you need to either change your release or speed. If you want to manage with one ball, you should practice changing the direction of the spin or the speed.
Increasing Speed
When the ball spins, if the speed is slow, it curves more. Increasing the speed helps to keep it straight. To increase speed, you can either raise the height of your swing or increase your approach speed. Many amateurs try to increase speed using arm strength alone, but it’s important to focus on the speed of your approach. The swing is driven by the forward movement of the approach. Relying solely on the arm has its limits. Increasing the speed of the approach is key. Although it’s challenging to change speed, adjusting your approach speed can increase the ball’s speed. Control might become difficult, but with practice, it will improve.
Changing the Spin Direction
Another method is to change the direction of the spin without changing the speed. Normally, I spin the ball to the left, making it curve left, but when I keep my hand straight, the ball doesn’t curve as much. People with a lot of spin or slower speeds find the 10-pin difficult. If even a cover ball curves, changing the spin direction is the only option. Keep your hand as straight as possible to minimize the ball’s curve, even at slower speeds.
Summary
Picking up spares is crucial in bowling and is more important than strikes. Everyone should adjust themselves or their ball to pick up spares. Today, we discussed how to pick up the 10-pin and the practice methods. Use these tips to improve your 10-pin coverage rate.
