Hi everyone, my son is 12 & just started bowling in Sept. He is using a house ball now but will be getting his own ball soon drilled to fit him. Are there any drills he can do at home to help his release. He throws it all over the place right now. Also, any drills he can use in practice, we practice at least once a week. He currently holds high game (154) & high series in his small league but wants more consistency. He really enjoys the game & has fun but the higher the scores, the more fun he has. Thanks in advance for your help. P. S. I've heard of the milk jug drill, how does this work?

A couple days ago after a practice session, a guy who works at the bowling alley told me a little trick to practice my releases at home.

Stand in front of a couch with the left knee slightly bent and resting against the couch and "bowl" the ball onto the couch while practicing the release.

Hey Squirrel,

If I tried that in my house, my wife would kill me.

Who pays for the furniture?


It doesn't hurt the couch if done right. When I stand in front of it and swing my arm, then release the ball, it's being released only a foot or 2 from it's landing point.

I've done it several times now and it is helping with consistency.

I try it sometimes when she is gone. I have my hallway line off as an approach. thanks mike

Actually that is a bona-fide release drill. You may want to cover the couch with an old blanket, and possibly put a couple of pillows down as well to help contain the ball.

The last thing you want to have to explain to any woman, is how lane oil stains got on her couch.... no matter who bought it...

You should look around locally for a certified coach/ instructor to help your son move to the next level. Of course you can have him come to this site to get questions answered as well.

I never even thought of oil stains. Luckily I give my ball a good cleaning every time I come back from bowling so it's not an issue, But it's definately something to think of if the ball isn't well cleaned.

The ball continues to hold lane oil even after a thorough cleaning. To see how much is there just leave the ball in a car in the sun for an hour or two. When you return to look at it, oil will be running down the outside of the ball.

The wicking action of the cloth covering the furniture can draw this oil to the surface and transfer it to the sofa.

Better to be safe than sorry when dealing with a ladies furniture....

I didn't know that. I guess it is best to cover the couch first, for those who have a "better half" to think of.

I'm still single so the couch is all mine.

I will start putting a sheet over it anyway, in case someday I get to share it with someone.

It's always good to plan ahead...