How to choose the right bowling ball is the first important decision you will make at the bowling center. Even a certain guy from Bedrock named Flintstone had to choose the right bowling ball, although his choices were stone or...stone. Nevertheless, he picked the rock that fit his game the best. As a matter of fact, bowling historians believe that stone was actually the first material used for bowling balls about 5000 years ago. When bowling finally moved indoors in the 1800's, wooden bowling balls were all the rage. Then, throughout much of the 20th century, most bowling balls were made of hard rubber. Choosing the right bowling ball during each of these periods wasn't too difficult; pick the appropriate weight and ensure the finger holes fit right-done.
Technology has had a dramatic effect on the game of bowling. Electronic scoring systems, lanes made of synthetic materials, and bowling balls made of various materials to react differently to varying lane conditions. Fortunately, if you only bowl a few times a year and you're not interested in buying your own bowling ball, figuring out how to choose the right bowling ball from the selection of "house" balls can be very easy. Actually, as compared the rubber bowling ball era, there is only one additional consideration, but I'll get into that after discussing weight and fit.
First, how heavy should the ball be? Well, a pretty good rule of thumb to follow is one pound of bowling ball for every 10 pounds of body weight. So, if your first time bowling child weighs 80 pounds, start with an eight pound ball. From there, you will have to watch and make a judgment as to whether they seem to be able to physically handle that weight. If he/she seems to be able to swing the ball comfortably, without losing balance, that is probably to right weight to go with. Most bowling centers have balls from 6-16 lbs. in one pound increments; the weight of the ball is usually engraved on the surface of the ball. So if you need to adjust, you can go up or down by ones until you find the right weight.
Second, how should the holes fit my fingers? Simply stated-comfortably. More specifically, not too loose or too tight. You shouldn't have to worry about the ball falling off of your hand or any of your fingers getting stuck during delivery. Most house balls are drilled for the thumb to go all the way in to the ball and for the ring and middle fingers to go in to the second knuckle. Another fit factor is how the ball "sits" in your hand. With your fingers and thumb in the ball as explained above, the ball should lay in your palm making full contact.
Now for the mystery third consideration when choosing the right bowling ball. This applies especially to those who choose to buy their own bowling ball. Back in the rubber ball day, there was only one color to choose from, black. Now there are so many different colors and patterns to choose from you can find a bowling ball that suits your personality. Whether it's your favorite color, has your favorite sports team logo on it, or it looks like you're bowling with a giant golf ball; the choices can really make it fun to go out and buy a new ball.
