Your Approach
Just as Every bowler's hand is different, and for best results, a ball drilled to fit their hand will improve their score, so is their approach. Some bowlers use a 3 step approach, while others will feel more comfortable with a 4 or 5 step approach. Although we do not recommend the 4 step approach, some bowlers do find that it works well for them.
No matter how many steps you take on the approach, you should always end up at the foul line with the foot opposite your bowling hand forward.
3 step approach: Holding your ball and facing down the lane, as you take the first step, and keeping your shoulders level, push the ball out, forward and away from the body. With the second step, let gravity swing your arm and ball back behind you in a pendulum motion. On the 3rd step the arm swings forward again, with the thumb coming out of the ball as it reaches the forward ankle, and the fingers following a fraction of a second later. The later the fingers are released from the ball, the more "hook" that can be put on the ball, provided that the release isn't too late. Releasing the ball too late will result in "lofting", and besides making a lot of noise as the ball finally hits the lanes, it causes inaccuracy, and doesn't allow the ball to work for you.
5 step approach: The five step approach is very similar to the 3 step, except that the "pendulum" swing of the arm and ball is spaced out over 2 additional steps. The biggest task in using the 5 step approach will be in making all the movements smooth. A jerky approach and delivery is definitely going to hurt your score. As with the 3 step approach, the final step will be made with the foot opposite your bowling hand forward at the foul line, allowing for balance when you release the ball.
4 step approach: If you feel that you need to use the 4 step approach, make sure that you start the approach on the proper foot: left foot for left handed bowlers; right foot for right handed bowlers. This way, the forward foot will, again, be the one opposite your bowling hand, providing you the balance needed for a smooth release.
Practice: You can do this practice without your bowling ball. Imagine you have the ball, and mark a line that will be the foul line. Practice your approach, including the swing for delivery. As you reach the foul line, and release the imaginary ball, practice keeping the forward knee bent at an angle that will put your chin in a direct vertical line over the knee. The ball and toes of the rear foot should be the only part actually touching the floor. While in this position, practice moving the rear foot and placing it down in various spots behind you in an arc. Practice this until you are able to do so without losing your balance. Once you are able to do this, take your bowling hand, and cup it to your ear, with the opposite arm extended out from your side, and repeat the exercise. This will help you learn the proper balance for release of the ball during bowling.