Using a low back swing to control speed

[ssclary]

Is it okay to use a low backswing to control ball speed. I end up with too much speed if my backswing is high. The ball will just fly down the lane and never have time to hook. If I shorten the backswing I get lower speed and better motion out of the ball. It looks weird but it seems to work.

Is there a problem with having a low back swing?

[ssclary]

Am I even using the correct term "backswing"?

[BrandonKR]

No, I don't see a problem in that, I often adjust the height of where I hold the ball which in turn adjusts the backswing. I often do this when i'm not carrying corner pins. The backswing gets lower making my ball speed slightly slower, and gets more time to face up to the pocket to carry all ten.

As long as you can keep the change in swing consistent, you should be just fine. :)

[J Anderson]

Is it okay to use a low backswing to control ball speed. I end up with too much speed if my backswing is high. The ball will just fly down the lane and never have time to hook. If I shorten the backswing I get lower speed and better motion out of the ball. It looks weird but it seems to work.

Is there a problem with having a low back swing?

For years the 'official' way to control ball speed was to raise or lower the height that you held the ball in your stance: higher gave you a higher back swing and more speed, lower less speed.

Current thinking is that its better to speed up or slow down the footspeed.

[billf]

Depends on how low. Most bowlers with real high backswngs muscle to that height without realizing it. As long as on the downswing your arm is parellel to the floor as your slide foot starts to flatten on the floor, you're alright.
How high is your backswing normally?

[ssclary]

Normally my backswing goes easily right under my shoulder height. I have to keep it waist high or under to keep my speed where I want it. If that makes sense

[billf]

If I'm picturing your waist high correctly, then your barely using any backswing at all. How fast is your normal and slower speed?

[ssclary]

High backswing = 16-17mph

Low backswing = 13-15mph

My backswing seems incredible short when I watch it on tape

I will try and post a video, not sure how

[billf]

Is your elbow bent like RDMONSTER? You can always just e-mail me the video bowlerz_score@yahoo.com bfreitas2000@yahoo.com
I check them both at least once an evening.

[ssclary]

I videoed myself and noticed that I have my elbow bent when I push away late. I have been struggling to push away on time and that shortens the amount of time I have to complete my swing before I get to the foul line.

I think that's my next focus, push away being smoother and better timed with my first step(4-step approach)

[MisterSinister]

Not saying you can't, or shouldn't use backswing height to adjust speed, but the best way to slow ball speed is with your feet. Slower steps=lower ball speed.

[Tampabaybob]

Going along with what was stated earlier ( I think by John) it used to be raise the ball in your stance for higher speed and lower it for lower speed. Now, they have computers that will slow down the motions by frame and it actually brings your backswing higher if you lower the ball in your stance. But with that said, I agree with Bill, every person is different.... and what ever works for you is right. No two people are exactly the same and what works for one person won't work for another. Foot speed is usually the main controlling factor for arm and ball speed. So whatever feels right and works for you, stick with it.

Bob

[remix]

Your swing should stay consistent. Slow down your approach.

[GeoLes]

As I understand it, the swing in general should be a smooth, effortless arc. It is controlled by the pushoff. The higher the push-off, the higher the backswing will naturally be. So for lower backswing pushoff from hip height rather than the chest height. You can also start closer to the foul line, mentally forcing you to take shorter steps, thereby slowing down general delivery speed.

[ssclary]

I appreciate all the feedback, I think I have figured what I am doing.

I was pushing away and up, causing me to shorten the backswing in order to get the ball out on time. I am now working on an smooth push away, level with my straying point. Which gives me higher back swing and increases my speed, but also helps my release a creates the correct ball motion. Seems likes it all starts with the first step and push way(4-step approach)

[billf]

Glad to hear it's all coming together for you. Keep it up

[Greenday]

One thing you just need to be careful about when it comes to changing how high your arm swing is, it'll change your timing. Just gotta make sure it doesn't affect your timing too badly.