What is Two-Handed Bowling?

The Basics

• Two-handed bowling is a legitimate way to bowl that is gaining popularity, and we want to clarify some misconceptions.
• Some two-handed bowling techniques are the same as traditional one-handed bowling, but there are plenty of things to keep in mind as you adjust to this style.
• Make sure your gear suits bowling with both hands!

Because bowling has been around in some way, shape, or form throughout the world and for thousands of years, it’s only reasonable to assume that the sport has gone through a few evolutions. After all, we no longer roll heavy stones or leather pouches on the grass, just as the rest of the equipment has undergone some drastic changes: think how messy a modern lane would be if we still used terra cotta pots as pins! Just as much as the materials have changed, so have the mechanics and the fundamental rules of the game. 

With that in mind, two-handed bowling has continued to gain popularity as a viable way to enjoy the sport we love. Get ready to delve more into what this technique actually is, as well as the proper technique to nail two-handed bowling safely and competitively.   

Dispelling The Myths of Two-Handed Bowling

Anything new is bound to have some misconceptions about it. And, because you’re likely going to be sharing the lanes with more people who swear by two-handed bowling techniques, it’s even more important to know more about what two-handed bowling is and isn’t! 

• Myth: It is not a legitimate way to bowl.
• Fact: It is approved by the United States Bowling Congress and the Professional Bowling Association. It is as legitimate as traditional one-handed bowling!

• Myth: It is only for people who can’t physically throw with one hand. 
• Fact: It’s true that this technique is friendlier on the wrists and other joints, meaning it can help more people enjoy the sport for longer. However, it’s a throwing style that is also increasingly popular with competitive and even professional bowlers. Overall, this method is ultimately about personal preference.

• Myth: Two-handed bowling techniques give an unfair advantage.
• Fact: Two-handed techniques are different, but they do not give an unfair advantage any more than any other approved style that takes time and skill to master. If anything, being able to adapt your play style is the mark of a real bowling aficionado!

• Myth: You can’t spin properly or hook if you throw with both hands, and aiming can be more difficult.
• Fact: Spinning is still doable, but throwing curves with two hands demands its own learning curve. That said, hooks apply a lot less when you are using both hands to bowl.

And with that last point in mind, here are a few of the basics to start practicing your two-handed techniques! 

Two-Handed Bowling Techniques

Because this throwing style is quite different from traditional one-handed moves, prepare for some of your tried-and-true hacks to either not apply as well, or just feel different when you use them. 

The Stance

Let’s start with the stance itself. When you’re bowling two-handed, it’s best to keep your stance lower to the ground, with knees bent to adjust for the power that can come with using both hands to stabilize and launch the ball. 

Because you are no longer relying on a back swing the same way, your upper body needs to remain upright and secure while maintaining a free-flowing movement from your core to your torso. You will need to be more mindful of your footwork and your steps, since you are relying more on momentum from your feet than from your shoulders.

The Grip

Some two-handed bowlers use the thumb holes, and others do not. This is a matter of personal preference. If you opt to use the thumb holes, you might notice that you’ll need to drill the holes differently to make your grip more comfortable. 

Regardless of thumb placement or lack thereof, you will still need to activate your dominant hand differently than your non-dominant hand. Like one-handed bowling, your dominant hand does more of the actual launching, which uses a snap of your wrist. The difference with two-handed bowling is responsible for guiding and stabilizing the throw. You can make very artful spins, but pay attention to how much or how little both your hands do at any one time, as maintaining control on the spin can be more challenging.  

The Release

Having proper control is important, even when you have another hand to help guide your release. This is where you’ll see the biggest changes between traditional throws and two-handed bowling. A lot of your release will gain momentum with your footwork, so getting the timing right between your steps features more prominently in this style. Focus on your own core just like you do with the one on your bowling ball, keeping your upper body straight but not too rigid, relying on the leverage provided by your knees rather than your back and shoulders.

Don’t forget the follow-through, either: extend your arms towards the pins for best control. 

The Bottom Line

Like everything in bowling, it’s one thing to read about it and it’s another to actually physically do it. So what are you waiting for? Get practicing! 

The Best Gear for Two-Handed Bowling

A change in your bowling techniques warrants a few updates to your gear. Keep these things in mind if your new form demands an update to your gear:

For Your Hands

Set yourself up for success by focusing on protecting your wrists. Just as in one-handed bowling, how you activate your wrist matters greatly. Investing in proper gloves is vital, as are any of your grips, especially if you opt to continue using thumb holes.

For Your Feet

Proper footwear is also extra important, since a lot of two-handed bowling moves the pressure from your shoulders to your feet, and especially your knees. While there is no substitute for good form, having sturdy, well-fitting bowling shoes that minimize impact on your joints is essential. Stabilize yourself further with heels and soles to help you with that fancy footwork.

Bowling Balls

When it comes to the bowling balls themselves, you might notice as you are experimenting that your preference for bowling ball weight might change. You will also be more reliant on spares rather than balls designed for hooks. For more specific questions, contact us and we’d be delighted to give you our recommendations!

Give Two-Handed Bowling a Whirl!

Ready to give a new spin for your spins? “You can’t knock it unless you try it” absolutely applies here, pins and all. So, what are you waiting for? Try your hand - or both - at two-handed bowling!