Ask Bob 8-9-05

by Bob Korth

Q. I just started working with a coach; I have had two lessons so far. Some of what he has told me seems to be working but I still seem to have no accuracy. Can you tell me are there any drills or things I can work on in practice?

A. There are some things you can do in practice to work on accuracy but now is not the time. You are doing the right thing working with a coach. I don't want you to waste your money by listening to too many people. Me included. When you are working with a coach anything I might say or anyone else for that matter could end up confusing you. Give this a chance listen to him and practice what he says. Be patient and your game will improve.

Q. Back in November I had my first 300 shortly after I had a 299. Since then I can hardly shoot 180 mostly 150's. This has been very frustrating. I was averaging close to 200 before and now I am down in the low 190's and getting worse. Now I am not sure if I was just lucky or what. What do you think the problem might be? Am I trying to hard?

A. Do you know that a slump is usually not a problem with your physical game but more mental it is a severe lack of confidence. When you are shooting those 150's you begin to think that you forgot how to bowl. That is not the case at all you know how to bowl you have to let your muscle memory start working again. You are right you are probably trying to hard. It is very difficult to work your way out of a slump try taking about 2 weeks off and not bowl at all. Then come back with a fresh attitude, without practice expectations are lower and the pressure of performing is also lower. Then you can get back into a free flowing swing again. Because of the 300 and almost another you most likely started to pressure yourself into doing it again. Relax have fun and it will come back. When you get up on the approach for your shot clear your mind and just think spot. See how close you can get each time to your target if you miss it don't beat yourself up just get your spare and try again the next time. For a while quit thinking score just think target. Don't analyze every shot that will drive you nuts. If you need to think about what you are doing do that in the settee area, When you get up on the approach no more thinking. Try this get yourself set then try counting count each time to 3 before beginning your approach. One thousand one, thousand two, one thousand three. All while watching your mark then go. This helps to clear other thoughts from your mind.

Q. The start of the league season is right around the corner. I have not bowled all summer. What suggestions can you make to get ready for the season?

A. First I would go to your local pro shop and have them check your equipment. Check your span, and pitches and have your ball cleaned and resurfaced if necessary. Get a new ball if yours is very old because things have changed over the last few years. Then start slow bowl a game or two and build up to more over the next couple of weeks. If you bowl twice a week go practice at least twice a week. Remember to stretch for a few minutes before starting to bowl. Being away from it all summer the muscles have not been working this way and if you don't stretch first you could injure yourself.

To Ask Bob a question send an email to askbob@clearwire.net