By Stephen Padilla

USBC Coaching Specialist

What do you think about before each shot, and when do you think about it? If you're thinking when you're up on the approach, it's probably too late for you to throw a good shot. That is because 99.9 percent of your thinking should be done before you ever step onto the approach. It should be done in The Think Circle.

The Think Circle is the area off the approach near the ball return, the area you visit before picking up your ball and physically going through the motions to deliver a shot. It is within this circle that you should decide what ball you want to throw, what target you want to hit, what shape you want the shot to take, and so on and so forth. Once your decisions are made, visualize the desired shot. Once you can clearly picture that shot and the desired result, leave The Think Circle, and deliver the ball.

The Think Circle is for thinking; the approach is for bowling. Make your decisions in The Think Circle; once you're up on the approach, it's time for your body to take over.

If you need further assistance, consult your local USBC-certified coach.