Two handed bowling technique: The Non Ball Side Hand

Hey everyone! Welcome back to the Channel!
This video is the first in a series of videos coming out that will detail the keys to the two-handed game. We are going to get started with the non-ball side hand.
Do you like this series? Check out part two where we talk about the shoulders and how to use them in the two-handed game:
• Two Handed bowling tec...
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[@VIN-7567]

I have never seen anyone go in depth about the support hand, very very interesting to see this in action.

[@BigSkyBowler]

Thank you! Hopefully it helped!

[@jimbeard2864]

@@BigSkyBowler Ging to try 2 handed so looking for more information. Go Swag !!

[@BigSkyBowler]

@@jimbeard2864 I recommend starting with your normal grip first and simply take your thumb out to see how it feels. If you don't like it you can always have the fingers adjusted for semi fingertip.

[@captainawesomeq]

watched this a couple months ago but just wanted to say that this video changed everything for someone who recently transitioned into 2h. thank you for sharing

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your welcome, I am glad it helped and thank you for watching and sharing the video!

[@robertbrich6889]

You explained the finger location of the non bowling hand as good as anyone. Thank You

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your welcome!

[@cbrdealer]

As someone who has been 1 handed since I was a kid trying to switch to 2 handed this might be the most helpful video I have seen. I cant wait to watch the rest. Thank you. Subbed!

[@BigSkyBowler]

Glad it helped! Thank you for the sub!

[@mcrdjunky]

This man is very easy on the ears and not really wasting time on the break downs. well done good sir

[@BigSkyBowler]

Thank you! Thank you for watching and sharing!

[@XenoGuru]

I'm a one-hander and intend to stay that way; however, I've always admired the two-handed style and have been fighting the war against it for a while. Too many conservatives think that two-handers are "weak"; have an unfair advantage of some type, or should be placed in a different division of bowling. They don't understand that the vast majority of two-handers are only throwing the ball with one arm. The non-bowling arms purpose is how you described. The speed and revolutions that are created are in the same manner as one handed. Foot speed; coil/uncoil of the upper and lower body, and hand position upon release. The biggest example of this would be Tom Daugherty. He's literally a two-handed bowler that uses only one arm to throw it.

[@BigSkyBowler]

Totally agree! Each style has its benefits and downsides and each requires time and effort to master. Thank you for watching!

[@tonymoody9800]

I appreciate the info. It is; indeed; difficult to find a lot of detailed info on the subtleties of two handled techniques.

[@BigSkyBowler]

Thank you! There will be followup videos to this coming in the next week. Thanks for watching!

[@davidwho8215]

I am a one-handler considering two-handed. My reason is mostly to bring some new excitement to my game. I’ve watched all your videos in this series, but I’m commenting here, as it’s where most folks probably start. Your tips on finger placement to control tilt were pretty interesting. I was actually looking for videos on how to covert from one-handed to two-handed, but yours is still the most useful.

[@BigSkyBowler]

Glad to hear they are so helpful! Thank you for watching!

[@SynkRz]

I’ve been having trouble with my 2 handed form lately, but by changing my off hand grip as mentioned in the video, I was able to get a new high avg today! Thanks much for the informational video ❤

[@BigSkyBowler]

That is awesome! I'm so glad it helped!

[@godprotoss]

Wow, that's a very detailed explanation, I'll be adding these concepts to my practice next time.

[@ryanchaiMS]

Appreciate the info so much, was struggling now for the bridge between finger holes on my ball. Gonna try this soon for better flares.

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your welcome! Glad it helped!

[@ajfloyd5940]

Man this video def helped me! I just started 2 hand bowling 2 weeks ago. I was having that problem of my wrist un-cuping. I tried out moving my hand forward on the ball at home and it instantly helped!

[@BigSkyBowler]

I'm so glad to hear that it helped! I'm glad you found my channel. Thanks for watching.

[@getsmartpaul]

Hey Big Sky, @5:56 very good video showing how to keep the wrist cupped with help from the off ball hand. The off ball hand position relative to the ball hand fingers is very important for supporting the weight of the ball. Thank You !

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your welcome

[@Jake61Haight]

I am looking forward to trying this. Great presentation

[@BigSkyBowler]

Thank you for the compliment and thank you for watching!

[@CKBowling1]

I am considering moving to 2 handed this summer, I struggle with having a consistent hand position on my 1 handed release. I think anytime I have thrown 2 handed my off hand (left) has just been on the side of the ball. I never thought about this. Great videos full of information. Thanks.

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your welcome! Thank you for watching!

[@ronpryor5812]

Your tips sure help. Yhanks.

[@austindodo]

Definitely gonna be trying this method out

[@michaelc1631]

Thank you so much. My son tried your hand positioning advice today. He had a lot more control of axis rotation.

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your welcome! I'm glad it helped!

[@zulmuhamad2299]

The best two handed bowling coaching video.thanks

[@BigSkyBowler]

Thank you! That means alot to me. Thanks for watching and for the support!

[@benh1356]

I'm gonna try this and think it will help me alot never worried much about my left hand much besides holding the ball hopefully it will help me take some revs off for my 10 pin spares to. Thanks

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your welcome! Thank you for watching!

[@dfunkt_jester]

Super informative, thank you for this

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your welcome! Glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching!

[@samiclex6816]

Exactly what I needed thanks for this tip!!

[@BigSkyBowler]

Happy to help!

[@marcusnewfield3004]

As a new bowler thank you for explaining the off hand !

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your welcome!

[@irfancooking298]

amazing in depth video. thank you for this

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your welcome!

[@ThePastaFazool]

Great tip and explanation - never knew this was a thing - thanks!

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your welcome and thank you for watching

[@jibonchoudhury6518]

Thank you for explaining the off hands...very interesting

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your welcome

[@isaackarlsson2657]

I really like your 2-handed tips. For me as a relatively new bowler i love these videos. Keep it up🤘🏼

[@BigSkyBowler]

Thank you for the compliment and thank you for watching.

[@EpicHelp]

Great details on this process. Plan on trying it this weekend. Thanks for the video!

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your welcome and thanks for watching!

[@vickvinegar4518]

Great video. Thank you!

[@BigSkyBowler]

You're welcome and thank you for watching!

[@mtbjekyll1]

I needed this info, I’m always trying to remember the feel and will ultimately help, thanks

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your welcome!

[@DaMaxchi]

Very interesting concept! I shall experiment with this technique the next time I practice. Thank you for sharing this!

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your welcome and thank you for watching!

[@KRayBB]

this has been one of the most helpful videos I've seen in talking about the two handed bowling technique. I've recently gotten back into bowling in general and have been enjoying watching all your videos. keep up the good work!

[@BigSkyBowler]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you!

[@ChuckieT266]

Thank you so much for this! I am a novice and this helps me out a lot! Subbed!

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your very welcome! Thanks for subbing! Second video in this series is out tomorrow!

[@truth5121]

Never thought of it like that this could be so helpful the video definitely deserves a like 👍🏽

[@BigSkyBowler]

Thank you!

[@dougenglun4983]

great info (best i have seem) thank you

[@dantu5377]

Great tips

[@BigSkyBowler]

Glad you like them! Thank you for watching!

[@superrkc9706]

thank you

[@BigSkyBowler]

You're welcome! Thank you so much for watching the video.

[@MajorAddiction]

Very interesting notes. I want to start trying this style

[@BigSkyBowler]

No time like the present!

[@zlabreche10]

We have very similar shots and approaches but I’ve been very inconsistent lately and I think it has to do with my off hand. Going to try this stuff tonight at league and see what happens

[@jacoba3272]

Hey big sky bowler! I just wanted to say all points in your video are very accurate. As I am a 2 handed bowler as well, I have found methods of changing my axis rotation without using my control hand. Since I’m a righty I change the position of my right hand on the ball. In other words I rotate the ball left once it is in my hand to create more axis rotation and rotate the ball more right to create less. This has helped my ability to become more versatile and more accurate because I found that changing my left hand position can create some inconsistencies. I use this every single day I bowl. As well as the most minor change in my right hand placement makes all the difference on bowling on sport shot. I would love to go more in depth as in the form of a video because i’m not the best at explaining.

[@mattlivetv9246]

Going to try this today in practice!

[@BigSkyBowler]

Awesome let me know how it went!

[@hector190493]

I've just started bowling and decided to switch to two-handed style because I injured my middle finger, have not seen a better explained video regarding the helping hand. Thank you so much, keep up the work! Greetings from México.

[@BigSkyBowler]

Thank you for the compliment! I'm glad I could help you on your journey. Greetings and welcome!

[@BigSkyBowler]

Thank you for the compliment! I'm glad I could help you on your journey. Greetings and welcome!

[@deadpolymers3416]

I do the same thing with my fingers, except I use the index finger on my ball hand as the key. Offhand index to ball index is forward. Offhand pinkie finger to ball index is max side roll. Although I think your practice of using the spot between the middle/ring fingers is more consistent, and I may try that next time I practice. I also vary the height of my offhand to dictate wrist position (like you showed early in this video). I open up the distance between the finger tips for less revs (usually for spare shooting)... and I'll move the off hand fingers in tighter to the ball fingers for more revs.

[@BigSkyBowler]

Awesome! I am definitely glad I'm not the only one as it does really help with a consistent release. I've never tried to uncup my wrist, it feels unnatural. I try to focus on forward rotation of my spare ball to ensure accuracy on my spares.

[@haiderawan1203]

Thank you.

[@BigSkyBowler]

You are welcome

[@aminsatt7904]

uuu, finger thingy is som'in new... i gonna try that😙

[@BigSkyBowler]

Excellent! Let me know how it goes.

[@niosys]

Thx for sharing. Hopefully I get better

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your welcome and thanks for watching! You will get better, if you put in the work and practice. Remember, there is not a single solution to getting better but hopefully these tips help!

[@mattprice302]

Good video. I need to pick one anyway for more consistency

[@BigSkyBowler]

Thank you!

[@INSOMNANOMS]

Honestly great vid

[@BigSkyBowler]

Thank you! Don't miss the rest of the series! kzbin.info/www/bejne/bH2odY1po9ljbK8 kzbin.info/www/bejne/mYHRZ4WPas2Abdk Ball Speed video coming out next week!

[@INSOMNANOMS]

@@BigSkyBowler thanks 🙏

[@whobertbowls]

I'm going to try this today. Thank you! I've been struggling to get behind the ball.

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your welcome!

[@andreasc9570]

Getting into the sport again after many years and want to use the two-handed style now. Although this might work differently for each person, it looks like a very clever system to build up a playing style on.

[@BigSkyBowler]

It's awesome to see someone coming back to the sport with a motivation to try something completely different and new. Thanks for watching my video, I hope it will help you along your journey.

[@brigham2250]

This seems very useful. Once I get over covid (it finally caught up with me yesterday) I plan to implement the different finger positions and see how it works for me. Looking forward to next week.

[@BigSkyBowler]

Let me know how it works out! Get better and thanks for watching!

[@brigham2250]

@@BigSkyBowler -- I will post again for sure.

[@brigham2250]

@@BigSkyBowler -- Today was my first day back bowling, but it was league, not practice time and I didn't think I should start experimenting, so I haven't yet tried your suggestions. But I will shortly. I was watching another one of your videos and you mentioned you live in Billings. I'm from NYC and there now, but I lived in Billings from 1992 -1995. I always had an interest in the history of the American West and thought Billings would be a good place to live and explore, so I literally packed my bags and got a one-way Greyhound ticket. The first place I lived was Parkhill Drive (I think the address was 539) and then I lived off the corner of Yellowstone and First (a big bluish house). There was a music store on Grand Ave called Hansen Music and a very good guitar player who worked there named Art Eichele. I used to love driving to Custer battlefield, Red Lodge, Bozeman, Yellowstone and lots of other places. Wyoming was great to go driving around too. It was a great adventure and glad I did it. I'm in my mid-50s now and I'm guessing a bit older than you. Unfortunately I didn't start bowling until about 5 years ago. My son is 17, bowls one-handed, but started when he was very young, averages low 200s, and has some 300 games. I top 200 a lot but my average is 160s. I am very inconsistent and need to work on that. I can score 225 and next game have a hard time getting to 150. Wish I was 25 again. I think about Montana a lot. I used to get some takeout, drive up to the Rimrocks and eat looking out at the city and the mountains in the distance. I remember when I moved back to NYC. People thought I would have culture shock moving to Billings. But I didn't. However, when I moved back to NYC, I experienced it full force. Took a while to overcome. I subscribed and looking forward to watching more of your videos.

[@brigham2250]

@@BigSkyBowler -- So, about 2 weeks ago I tried to bowl based on your hand positioning in this video. It was a bit awkward for me. Let me explain my usual hand positions: First of all, I don't cup the ball into my wrist and forearm. I hold the ball in my right hand but away from my arm and I crank my wrist so that the back of my hand is just about facing my leg and I spread my pinky and index fingers. My left hand holds the ball in place but on top of the ball. Therefore, my two hands are not touching. I bring my arm back and during my swing I rotate the ball bringing my hand around it so that the back of my hand is now facing away from my body (the normal position for someone's hand). I crank my wrist different amounts depending on how much I want to hook the ball. Sometimes I just get my hand right behind it and throw it straight (usually up the second arrow) and let it hook on its own. So my problem trying it your way is that both my hands have to touch, and the ball has to be cupped which felt very awkward. I haven't had much time for practice recently but played again today and tried to work on this new technique some more. I did a little better but not great and managed some good shots. I see that in order to really do it comfortably and naturally that I'm going to have to break it down into small steps/drills and build it up, which is what I should have done in the first place. My biggest issue is getting the ball off my hand smoothly. A few times my ring finger sort of got stuck in the ball. Oddly, some of those mishaps resulted in strikes. Everyone around me thought, great shot. No, I didn't admit it was just an accident; instead, I bowed and asked if anyone wanted my autograph. If you are using the power of your forearm in your throw, I can see that being helpful getting extra speed. A lot of the time I find myself throwing the ball just a little too slow and hooking a bit too early... a lot of "almost strikes" if only I had a tad more speed. I also need help getting the ball more on the outside than I usually do. I see the gutter and often overcompensate by throwing more down the middle of the lane. Not all the time, but enough. I need to find a way to be consistent. I will practice this new style more as time provides and look forward to becoming adept at it.

[@BigSkyBowler]

@@brigham2250 I understand. There is absolutely nothing wrong with the way you hold the ball in your setup but I do recommend getting your wrist in more of a cupped position. You can maintain the ball side hand position and still cup the wrist by using your non-ball side hand to do it appropriately. You are working the inside part of the ball which is a very good thing to do. Not staying cupped however is definitely reducing your rev rate capabilities. In fact, one bowler that I can think of who does it similar to the way you describe it is Osku Palerma. To throw more on the outside part of the lane as a two-hander you will need to ensure that you are staying behind the ball so it reads the front part of the lane early and doesnt jump too hard on the back. You will also need to ensure your using either a reactive ball with a very stable layout (something like a short Pin to PAP) or a urethane ball. Consistency takes time - the best way to be consistent is to have a focused practice session where you are focusing on being as consistent as possible at one thing at a time. I am looking forward to hearing about your progress! Keep up the hard work!

[@russklosinski9810]

This is really good information for any two hander or a coach. One question about having your opposite hand on top of the ball. I believe on the downswing the wrist will cup again before the release.

[@BigSkyBowler]

Not unless you're making that motion occur. The intention here is to place your ball side hand in a power position without having to think about it. Having the non ball side hand in the proper position in front of the ball helps this occur naturally. Thank you for the kind words!

[@kennythao9558]

I’ll have to test it out next time I go out

[@BigSkyBowler]

Let me know how it goes!

[@johnnierobles2304]

New subscriber great great video I’m not a two handed player but considering changing. My one handed game as struggled mightily. I still tend to use a lot of muscle. I could never develop a free arm swing. I know when I practice I should be more drill orientated. But this in de Luxe Gary interesting and something I wish I could send a video because I believe I should’ve been a two-handed player all along.

[@BigSkyBowler]

I used to be the same way with my one handed swing. When I switched to two handed, everything instantly felt more natural to me. I would encourage you to at least try it out and see how it fits. If you want a comprehensive review of your game, one or two handed, you can definitely look me up on Facebook and book a virtual lesson. Send me a dm! facebook.com/JeremiahRooneyBowling Thank you for the compliment on the video and thank you for watching!

[@johnnierobles2304]

@@BigSkyBowler Thank you Will do ! I’ll be looking forward to it 💪😃

[@jamesf5041]

Very interesting concept! I’m two handed with thumb and never thought of this, still learning a lot about different arm and hand positions for different ball reactions so I’ll definitely try this and see if this has an effect too. Considering I have my thumb in there as well.

[@BigSkyBowler]

Thank you! Just keep in mind, even with your thumb in the ball you still need to focus on the non-ball side hand to support the swing properly.

[@aleckpons2773]

Having the hand uncup in the backswing could be good if you are trying to cut down the hook on super dry lanes. Our centre has synthetic lanes that are over 35 years old and the centre is in the habit of not oiling the lanes on days with no leagues

[@BigSkyBowler]

Agreed, if you can be consistent at it, it definitely is a way to reduce your rev rate.

[@skillmaster909]

Just watched this video and one of your previous ones, showing hand position of the ball side hand. How do you mesh them together? Like are you still moving your non ball hand if you have your ball hand already set up for more rotation? I’m struggling with getting any rotation that’s consistent and doesn’t feel like I’m way around it and dropping it off my hand or I’m straight up the back and have no back end reaction and I’m unable to get deeper consistently when I need too.

[@BigSkyBowler]

Hello and thank you for watching the video. They work together. I use my ball side hand to set my initial rotation, then I use my non-ball side hand to hold that position throughout the swing process by making sure I've got the correct finger on this hand locked between my ball side hand ring and middle fingers. If your struggling with a consistent release, it is very likely that your non-ball side hand is moving around on the ball during your swing or there could be a problem with your approach that is making this occur. I would need to see a video to know for sure. Have you tried using a bowling glove on your non-ball side hand to help you maintain your grip and position with that hand?

[@skillmaster909]

@@BigSkyBowler well I’ve actually never heard how important the off ball hand is until now. I will have to try it when I practice next.

[@Novajin0]

Thank you for the good video:) I want to ask you a question.. Wouldn't it be possible to adjust the rotation with the index finger facing forward and the angle of the middle and ring fingers?

[@BigSkyBowler]

Not exactly sure what your asking here. Your changing the angle of your middle and ring fingers as I do in the video. If your doing that there's no way your index finger will remain pointed forward.

[@Novajin0]

@@BigSkyBowler Hmm..it should have been a question for another case🤔 Thank you for your kind reply😉👍

[@BigSkyBowler]

@@Novajin0 are you maybe referring to not setting your release in your setup? If so, yes it's possible but in my opinion, that gives you more to think about as you approach the line.

[@Novajin0]

​@@BigSkyBowler Yes~ I'll practice taking your advice into consideration:)

[@tonyattardo2769]

Just found you through Elliens Bowling channel. I am coming back from both hips and both knees being replaced. I will have questions as I attempt to learn to bowl 2 handed. I am starting out with a 10 pound ball as I build my strength back. and eventually 15. Any hints would help.

[@BigSkyBowler]

Awesome to meet you! Welcome to the channel. Your on the right path by starting with a lower weight ball, definitely work on drills as much as you can to increase strength in the proper areas before trying a full approach. I would recommend doing drills with the lighter ball and slowly increasing the weight of the ball before you attempt a full release.

[@deonkirk7357]

Amazing video, I'm getting better and better watching your videos, the positioning of your non dominant hand really dictates the accuracy of your shot.... I recently however discovered their 2 handed bowlers that still use the thumb hole with great results..i wonder is it any benefit?

[@BigSkyBowler]

Thank you! Honestly, the only benefit I can see is it helps with release accuracy.. Beyond that, it's more of a limitation than an advantage IMO.

[@dezzraven]

Love your videos. I’ve noticed my non ball side hand slide a little further apart during the backswing than my initial setup position. Is this an issue that will affect accuracy? How can I correct it?

[@BigSkyBowler]

Thank you! I definitely understand what your dealing with, as I dealt with that initially as well. What I recommend you do is focus on keeping your ball side arm completely relaxed during the swing, focus on getting the ball up into the swing using your non-ball side hand. If you lift the ball into the swing with your ball side hand, your range of motion from your ball side hand/arm will quickly outrun the range of motion from your non-ball side hand.

[@dezzraven]

@@BigSkyBowler thanks for the quick response. You mentioning the non ball side was meant to lift the ball into the back swing was a eureka moment for me after bowling for 6 years 2 handed. It’s hard to change that muscle memory after bowling 20 years one handed 😅

[@BigSkyBowler]

@@dezzraven couldn't agree more! Old muscle memory is hard to overcome. I still struggle at times to overcome bad muscle memory from my one handed days.

[@dezzraven]

@@BigSkyBowler my usual setup is full weight resting in the palm of my hall side hand. I tried a new setup today with the ball weight resting on my non ball side hand, like Belmo. Seems it works better for me to allow my non ball side hand to do the work in the back swing

[@jtpellizzer9972]

Looking to start bowling 2 handed perhaps. I will try this when practicing. When should I take my offhand off the ball?

[@BigSkyBowler]

Sorry for not responding until now. I've been super busy at bowl expo the past few days. You will want to make sure your non ball side hand comes off the ball just before your ankle in the downswing.

[@derek8511]

Just tried 2 two handed today and love it!! I'm so inconsistent bowling regular but I have only bowled 4 times in the last 20 years but joined a league with the guys at work. The first 2 handed throw felt weird but I see why it was my support hand that was way in the wrong spot. Can waint to try this guy's technique it seems extremely helpful. Cool in depth video BTW. Cheers.

[@BigSkyBowler]

@@derek8511 glad it helped! Thank you!

[@vorkot1]

Great video! I am a fairly new bowler (1 month) and have gotten my first ball around 3 weeks ago. I managed to to get my swing very straight and my timing very well, but the only issue that I have with 1-handed bowling is the fit for the thumb. I have been using tape and what not but I still pull blisters. So I want to give 2-handed a shot, but I still have a few questions about that. I wondered if you could answer them for me! 1. So with a 1-handed swing, you do a push-away and let the ball swing freely from front - to back - to front in a very free pendulum motion. With a 2-handed swing it seems more constriscted. I personally feel like I have a much harder time to get a "free swing" starting and I feel like I am using a little bit of muscle to pull the ball back into my backswing, before I can relax it for the release-swing. Do you maybe have a tip on keeping the swing fluid from start to finish? or do you think practise will help with that? 2. When using your left-arm/none-bowling arm, do you use any type of pulling/pushing force with that arm to hold the ball steady, or do you keep that left arm as relaxed/loose as possible so that it only forms as a swing-cradle and you let your right-arm/ball arm do all the work?

[@BigSkyBowler]

Thank you! It's awesome that your trying out the two handed game. It's a long journey to learn the style, but worth it! With that said, you really need to forget everything (mostly) that you learned from bowling one handed as the two handed game has very few similarities. Your questions are best answered in a video where I can show proper technique. I am planning several more videos in this series dealing with several aspects of the two handed style. To give a brief answer: You are correct that the most commonly used two handed swing is more constricted than a one handed swing. Your keeping the ball closer to your body throughout the swing and this not only makes it a shorter swing but also makes it more compact. Your non ball side arm is a huge part of the two handed game, as I said in this video it takes the place of your thumb and is responsible not only for proper release but also proper swing. If you try to use your ball side arm to support and swing the ball, you will be muscling the ball too much and this will have adverse effects on your release and accuracy. Instead, focus on a relaxed ball side arm and using your non-ball side arm to properly support the ball throughout the entire swing motion. Practice will help, but you have to be able to practice with focus and purpose. If your struggling with a specific area of your game, break it down and focus on that area. Their are specific two-handed drills that will help.

[@vorkot1]

@@BigSkyBowler Thank you very much for the response! I am looking forward to those videos once they are ready. Now I know I need to pay extra attention to my ball arm and that it stays as relaxed as possible. Just to ask just in case: Is your none-ball arm/left arm also supposed to be relaxed? For example, when you say you support the ball with your left hand, do you add any force, or do you just make sure that your hand is in the right place so that both of your arms are relaxed, hence the swing also being very free and relaxed.

[@BigSkyBowler]

@@vorkot1 the non-ball arm cannot be relaxed. Something has to hold the ball in the swing, if both arms are relaxed, you will drop the ball. Your non-ball arm is responsible for keeping the ball secured during the swing. To do this, you have to have some sort of tension in that arm. The two handed swing is not a pendulum style swing like a one handed swing. You do not use gravity to swing the ball, you use your body. Think coiled up spring during the back swing. The downswing is all about releasing that coiled spring properly for effective transfer of energy into your shot. Keeping that tension results in a forced shot, poor ball speed and accuracy issues with release and targeting.

[@vorkot1]

@@BigSkyBowler Aaah I see. That makes sense! Thank you very much.

[@BigSkyBowler]

@@vorkot1 you're very welcome!

[@skinniestjeans]

So if I use the index finger technique on a spare ball I might get it to roll straighter at single pins?

[@BigSkyBowler]

If executed correctly, yes it will help you achieve more forward roll.

[@Popsplace42]

Enjoyed the video, but I’m confused. I’m a beginner and understand axis rotation to be when I bring my hand around to the outside of the ball, and axis tilt being when you do what you described as “axis rotation”…

[@Popsplace42]

I guess they are closely related, when your hand gets to the inside of that ball with axis tilt, there’s more ball to get under and up the revs, and in the end the hand winds up around the outside of the ball. I am interested in learning 2 hand style also though. Great video.

[@BigSkyBowler]

You understand both quite well. When you change one, you change the other. The easiest way to change both is with the method described. Check out this older video of mine where I try to explain. kzbin.info/www/bejne/e2bXp5SNZshpidE

[@mttrucker21]

Do you do lessons? My son is starting out first year bowling and he wants to do 2 handed. He's john Whitakers grandson. Richie knows us

[@BigSkyBowler]

Yes sir I do. I have a flyer at town and country lanes on the bulletin board.

[@Deltavorce]

I am 2 handing but my affinity has a thumb drilled. I find myself skewing my palm alittle bit to the left for more rotation. should i grip it so my palm is over the thumb hole and focus on the support hand for the rotation? Hard to explain i know. :/

[@BigSkyBowler]

You throw it with two hands and the thumb hole isn't plugged? First, you will want to get the thumb plugged so it's a legal ball. Second, proper two handed technique does require proper use of your non-ball side hand to adjust your rotation. Just keep in mind that the non-ball side hand doesn't help the ball rotate, it just helps maintain the balls position throughout the swing until its released.

[@Deltavorce]

@@BigSkyBowler yeah I got it a long time ago and bc of work could never really get into it. Work for myself now and started really practicing like 2 weeks ago. I have a summer pass at a local place. Trying to just learn my way through it myself. I 2 hand bc I’m more legs then upper body bc I grew up playing soccer so I struggle getting a 14 back in the air so started 2 handing and found some results there. I’ll have to find the shop open one day to look into a plug, no1 has ever told me that so I’ve just been throwing it as is. Struggled with hearing the holes hit the floor down lane. Womp womp womp noise so that started making me rotate the ball with my 2 fingers in and the contact stopped so it’s a smooth roll now but didn’t want to be throwing it wrong bc I know it has a core inside and wanted to make sure I was spinning it the right way.

[@OurAmericanJourney]

Great tutorial, btw, what is a good ball weight for a 2 handed beginner? I stand 5’5” if this matter

[@BigSkyBowler]

Thank you! Ball weight depends really on several factors. The biggest factors are how old you are and what kind of bowling experience you have. There is nothing wrong with starting with a lower weight to help you get the feel for everything then moving back up in weight once you start to figure things out.

[@OurAmericanJourney]

@@BigSkyBowler I'm 50 now, got it, I'll start with 12 then. Thank you!

[@OurAmericanJourney]

@@BigSkyBowlerbtw, any recommended ball brand/style?

[@BigSkyBowler]

@@OurAmericanJourney being part of swag, I of course recommend swag balls. The majority of our equipment is very controllable and control is what matters for two handers. Check us out at www.swagbowling.com Our shield series would be the recommendation of a starter ball in 12 lbs of that's the weight you plan to start with. We also have the buzzer beater series, designed specifically for two handers with a 78D coverstock hardness. This allows for the ultimate control.

[@OurAmericanJourney]

@@BigSkyBowler I'll check it out! Thanks!

[@michaelkoch603]

Is there any reason many pros like belmo or packy don’t hold the ball against the forearm to start? It seems like it’s less common to do among the pros

[@BigSkyBowler]

Different way of doing it. There are many others who do. The one thing we all have in common is getting under the ball at the release point.

[@jasperx8480]

For the two holes, how deep do you have to put your fingers in ?

[@BigSkyBowler]

My grip is a semi fingertip. I get a better grip on the ball this way. If I use regular fingertip I feel like I can't hold onto the ball properly during the swing which causes release issues.

[@ebakes]

good video but ideally a higher audio volume for dialogue

[@BigSkyBowler]

Thank you. All of my recent content is much better as I have a good wireless mic now.

[@jerichogaydos7185]

Would the same method apply to a no thumb one handed bowler or would it be different?

[@BigSkyBowler]

You could definitely attempt it. However without your non-ball hand remaining on the ball throughout the swing, you wouldn't really get the full benefit. You would have to remember to keep your wrist in that position through the swing.

[@jerichogaydos7185]

Ok thank you

[@BigSkyBowler]

@@jerichogaydos7185 your welcome!

[@raymondwarren372]

But why? Are their averages higher than bowlers of my prime line Earl Anthony, Chris and Dick Webber, etc?

[@BaronFO]

interesting tips but your backswing needs little adjustment :D

[@BigSkyBowler]

Yes I know, and its something I've been working towards fixing for a month now.

[@BaronFO]

@@BigSkyBowler did you fix it? :)

[@indicatortrader1911]

DOES IT MATTER ON THE BOWLING BALL I HAVE A Axiom Pearl

[@BigSkyBowler]

No sir. All your doing is changing your release. Any ball, unless its plastic, will have a drastic change in ball shape if you do this properly.

[@indicatortrader1911]

@@BigSkyBowler THANK YOU SO MUCH MY HIGHEST WAS 214 BUT I WAS DRUNK LOL BUT NOW ITS TIME TO AVERAGE THAT SOBER.

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your welcome! Keep at it, you will get there! Thanks for watching!

[@indicatortrader1911]

@@BigSkyBowler YOUR WELCOME MY BROTHER BLESS UP

[@jimbeard2864]

It looks like you have your fingers much deeper than finger tip. Are you in the ball more like a conventional grip?

[@BigSkyBowler]

Semi fingertip. In-between first and second knuckle.

[@jimbeard2864]

@@BigSkyBowler Was your intent to add more rev rate or more control of the ball or both ?

[@BigSkyBowler]

@@jimbeard2864 it gives me more control and a better feel on my grip. It actually reduces my rev rate slightly as the fingers take longer to clear the holes.

[@user-xd8pj3bw7v]

The Two hand may be the. Future..how ever it is totally unfair to and older bowler who bowls single handed cause more revs and more speed that there is no way for single hand players ever to get

[@BigSkyBowler]

On the contrary... there are quite a few one handed players that rival a two handed rev rate and in some cases, exceed it. Ej Tackett is one of them. The future of bowling is both two handed and one handed. Thanks for watching!

[@discountmontecrisco2151]

dont ear blast us next time. 8:50 and beyond

[@BigSkyBowler]

Sorry, I did not have a wireless mic at the time of recording this video and I had to rely on the external mic of my camera.

[@paulhatmaker5997]

I almost skipped by this video because of the mediocre audio. ...Glad I didn't, though; this advice is gold!

[@BigSkyBowler]

I'm glad you stuck around! Thank you and thanks for watching. I'm working on ways to have better audio, but my camera doesn't support external mics. I suppose I could just use my phones camera.

[@paulhatmaker5997]

@@BigSkyBowler Well, I've subscribed with that hope... Thank you for your postings. I've just started bowling again after about 20 years, and I've been intrigued enough about two-handed bowling to try it. Your video filled in a lot of knowledge gaps for me. Thank you.

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your welcome! Your in the same boat I was in about 5 years ago when I came back to bowling.

[@den_medusa5335]

I DON'T LIKE 2 HANDED BOWLER ... I PREFER RIGHT HANDED BOWLER AND I'M A RIGHT HANDED ...

[@TheBigboza]

2 handed bowlers, not using the thumb hole is not bowling. Should have different tournaments for each, 2 hands no thumb hole is cheating by creating more revolutions, which increases the chances of more pin action, equaling more STRIKES!

[@BigSkyBowler]

Your entitled to your own opinion but the last time I checked, there was no rules against having a higher rev rate. By your logic, all bowlers with a high rev rate should be in a separate tournament together because there are several one handed bowlers out there who can match the two handed rev rate.

[@ogwalkonwater1562]

What about the 2 handed bowler that uses their thumb???

[@BigSkyBowler]

Not many of these. After trying that myself, I honestly see no benefit in using your thumb as a two hander. It complicates the release and reduces rev rate. However if you are using your thumb as a two hander, your thumb should be able to help you change your release but you will still need your non-ball side hand to support the ball properly as you swing.

[@ogwalkonwater1562]

@@BigSkyBowler just making the switch to 2 hands..after bowling years with 1 hand all my balls have a thumb hole …using 2 hands with my thumb definitely feels better and better on my wrist as well

[@BigSkyBowler]

To each their own. There are a couple of two handed bowlers who use their thumb, only one of which that I know has been successful at it.

[@ogwalkonwater1562]

@@BigSkyBowler can I ask who that may be… Happy Thanksgiving

[@BigSkyBowler]

Here are the ones I know of: Wesley Low Jr (used to use his thumb but stopped like 2 seasons ago and is bowling better). Matt Russo (only one I know of who has won with his thumb). Sean Maldonado (used to use his thumb, was unsuccessful and went no thumb last season, has won since then).