frustration

[resstealth]

It really depends. Sporting goods stores like Dicks have really cheap stuff. You can go the online route and get the ball cheaper, but with drilling, its probably around the same cost as getting it from your local pro shop.

[bowl1820]

Thanks everyone for your helpful posts. I guess I'd consider my lack of height a limitation. I'm a 5', 37 year old female. Guess I never realized that the pins weigh about 30 pounds; I still have a lot to learn. I tried picking up a 10-pounder, but since I'm fairly new to the game, it's too heavy. I will see the pro shop about an 8, though. How much more do balls from the pro shop run, versus ones from the sporting goods stores?

Okay we have more information.

First the pins don't weigh 30lbs each,

Balls from sporting goods places in the long run will be the same or more than the pro shop. Also most are just plastic balls, though you can find some low end urethane,reactive and I have seen a cheap particle ball. Once you figure in the cost of the ball, the drilling etc. .

Most pro shops offer Ball and bag deals, you get a Ball (usually plastic) and a bag (sometimes even shoes). Most of time it includes drilling too. This would be the most cost effective option. Plus you start a relationship with the pro shop which can offer other benefit down the road, that you won't get with a sporting goods store.

As far as weight goes, IMO a 10lb would be better (not more than 14) but talk to the pro shop they can tell you better.

Here's what Ron Clifton say's:

The first thing I check when trying to pick a ball weight is the persons wrist strength. I have them hold the ball down by their side with their wrist relaxed. Then I ask them to cup their wrist forward. They should be able to hold that position for a slow count to 10 or the ball is too heavy. This goes for men and women. I have seen a lot of men and women that could fire a 15 or even 16LB ball down the lane but can not pass my wrist test with them. If you can't pass the wrist test, then you can't have a good strong release or much versatility in releases.

[CoachJeffrey]

Gordon,

I know how you feel. It can be so frustrating when you have lofty goals and know you are more than capable of reaching them and don't come close to them. My recommendation is that you evaluate your expectations. Many times bowlers set goals that don't line up with their goals and visa versa.

When you expect not to hit 500, your mind responds to it and so does your body. When you are frustrated it really is revealing to you your expectations. When you change them, you'll see your frustration level drop way down.